Can you tell us about yourself?

My Name is Mariela and I am a business owner living and working in Connecticut with my little family.

Can you tell us about your business and what your roll in the company is?

I am the creator and owner of The Rustic Ridge Bath Co. in Ridgefield Ct. I handcraft and hand pour in small batches all of the products that I offer.

What made you get involved in candlemaking?

I have always loved making things with my hands since I can remember. Creating and experimenting. When I decided to start my soap business, I knew I wanted to do an entire candle line. A lot of thought went into my candles. From every clean scent I offer, to the concrete vessels I make in my own studio. I love having total creative control of my candles and everything I create.

What do you enjoy about running your business?

My absolute favorite thing about running my business is creating and the joy of seeing a happy customer. I also love seeing my candles in stores!

Can you give us a tip that you would tell someone starting out now in the same business?

I think the biggest tip I can give to someone is to just start creating. It took me a really long time to officially start my business because of fear. Looking back I should have just started and made tweaks along the way.

What are some of your best selling products?

My best selling products have become all of my concrete vessel candles. Every season is a different scent that sells the best. They are a favorite because they can be refilled or they can be repurposed.