Magic Forums

I've been doing a lot of reading in books an online. I haven't seen it flat out yet but am wondering if casting is more about focus and intent than materials.
I know a caster personally. She doesn't like to discuss it so I don't ask about it. But one day she happen to mention the expense of materials so she used a Walmart candle said a few words and handle "it". An no she isnt a fluffy one. I you ever met her you would suspect she has the gift right off.
So does this mean that a spell could work without all called for ingredient as lobg as caster provides the energy and confidence to see it through?