Comforting childhood experiences and her grandmother’s fondness for candles influenced Ashley McNab’s decision to embark on a path of creating exquisite scented candles.
These memories instilled in her a deep appreciation for the sensory experiences that candles can provide.
Reminiscing the warm and inviting ambiance she experienced in her grandmother’s home, she said candles were an integral part of her grandmother’s decor, infusing the rooms with a sense of tranquillity and serenity.
“The flickering flames and the soothing fragrances emitted by the candles left an indelible impression on me,” she recalled.
The emotional connection McNab formed with candles during that time became the catalyst for her entrepreneurial venture.
Determined to recreate the cozy and comforting atmosphere of her grandmother’s home, she set out to establish her own candle-making business, Bare Essentials.
She told VIBEZ! recently that she wanted to share similar magical moments with others and founded Bare Essentials in 2021.
“Candles evoke emotions, create an atmosphere and contribute to a sense of relaxation and well-being,” she noted.
McNab added that Bare Essentials was established as a result of a series of events and inspirations. After graduating with an Honour’s degree in Marketing Management, she was faced with the decision of either finding a job in her field or pursuing her entrepreneurial journey that had started in 2018 with a design and corporate merchandising company, called Bare Collective, based in Cape Town.
“Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, I had to abruptly move back home from Cape Town, which presented challenges in servicing my clients for Bare Collective. This led me to explore new opportunities and ideas.
“While under quarantine in January 2021, I came across body-shaped candles on Pinterest, and I was immediately drawn to them. Knowing that such unique candles were not available in Namibia, I saw an opportunity to create my own brand.”
Without wasting time, she began by researching suppliers and testing different wax, wicks and fragrance combinations to develop the Bare Essentials Candles. Every candle and colour has a carefully thought-out name and the branding, including packaging and ‘thank you’ cards, are meticulously planned.
“I attended one candle-making experience with my mom. It was a beautiful bonding experience for us, and we were able to create personalised candles that captured our unique personalities. The memories we made that day will forever be cherished,” she noted.
Bare Essentials also supplies diffusers, room sprays, mirrors and beaded jewellery.
The desire to create a brand that offers distinctive products and experiences has always been a driving force for her.
McNab has been receiving positive feedback from her customers, and that keeps her motivated and moving.
Just recently, she introduced a candle-painting activity from which she received great reviews.
“It was a big success, and it was the biggest event – all the candles were sold out, and people still wanted more. It kept participants busy, and I will definitely do it again and again. All the participants loved the candles,” she said proudly.
As a business, they are constantly pushing boundaries and seeking opportunities for growth and expansion. Some of the future plans and aspirations for Bare Essentials include new product lines, collaborations, retail partnerships and international expansion.
McNab’s goal is to continue providing exceptional products and experiences while staying at the forefront of creativity and innovation in the candle industry.