The other night we made our first batch of soy candles. It was really fun and wasn't as difficult as I had originally anticipated. We decided to package our candles in mason jars for a rustic feel. Our soy candles are Eco-friendly and vegan so it seemed fitting that we were simplistic with the presentation. This also meant we didn't need to worry about dying the wax - which saved a step. The candles turned out great and we were really pleased with our first efforts.

These are all of the supplies we used for the candles. The rubbing alcohol was used to clean out the mason jars to ensure the candle wax adhered evenly. It is very important to use weight measurements to ensure the most accurate amounts.

The clothespins hold the wicks in place so that they remain centered in the jar. A centered wick ensures an even wax pool which allows the candle to burn evenly.
 

This pitcher is made for candle making. We put it on the electric griddle so we could control the temperature a bit easier.

The wax is almost melted! It is important to leave the wax alone while it is melting. Less handling of the wax is best.

After the wax has cooled (it needs to cool a bit after adding and mixing in the fragrance), it gets poured into the jars. The wick can be rearranged after the wax has been poured to ensure it remains in the center.

Once the wax has cooled down and solidified - the candles should look like this!

Over the past few days we have been testing our candles to see how powerful the scent carries when burned. The Love Spell scented candles have a bit more fragrance in them than the Honeydew Melon - but unfortunately they don't have much of a hot throw. The cold throw is amazing and they smell delicious so it was disappointing when we discovered the scent was hardly noticeable when the candles were lit.

After a bit of research, Cody determined that our error was not adding in the fragrance at the right temperature. We were about 10 degrees short of where we needed to be. I never knew that candle making was such a science! Tonight we made another candle and in a few days I will burn it to test the hot throw. I'm hoping that this will fix the issue. We ordered a lot of fall and winter fragrances, so we need to perfect our "recipe" to ensure an aromatic and high-quality candle. Once we have our candles ready to go, I'm going to set up an Etsy shop! I'm super excited for this adventure.

Officially Open!!!

Today was our second official day of business at Snider's Hill Theatre Antique Mall in downtown Hillsboro. We finally got everything set up and displayed the way we imagined. It was definitely stressful yesterday when we were moving everything in! At one point we weren't sure that we could fit in all the pieces that we had planned, but in the end it all worked out.

After getting everything in the space, we then had to decide how to arrange it. I wanted to make sure that everything was easily accessible while also looking aesthetically pleasing. It took a bit of playing around and multiple arrangements until we found a flow that worked just right.

Our main piece that is featured in the space is this shabby chic cabinet/hutch with chicken wire doors. I found an old hutch that I painted with chalk paint and distressed. We've already received several compliments on the piece and have a few interested parties. I'm hoping that the piece goes quickly...however that means that I'll have to refinish one too! It seems that this refinishing furniture hobby will keep me busy - which is fantastic!

Here are the photos from our booth:

Our next project is to add some type of lattice or pallets or something against the stairs so we can hang items from it. I also want to add a few lamps to enhance the lighting in our space as it is a bit dark. I think our items would benefit well from being displayed with soft warm lighting. I have a basket full of vintage linens and doilies - I'm hoping those sell well as I enjoy hunting for those pieces. I know there is a bit of a learning curve to what sells quickly - here's to hoping that we are quick learners!