about rinkydink candles
Hello!
I'm Aimee, the founder and owner of RinkyDink Candles.
This business accidentally blew up when I started posting my creations on social media in 2020 and 2021.
I began making candles in 2019 after being diagnosed with GAD and CPTSD. It initially started as a therapeutic hobby, but quickly became an operating candle company around six months from its start.
Years later, I love running my own candle company and creating fun, cosy content while building a lovely little online community. A big part of my work now includes raising awareness about the positive impact having a hobby or business can have when recovering from trauma and going through therapy.
why candles?
During the 2020 pandemic lockdowns I started making my own candles. I began selling them online, while still working in IT after graduating University.
Making fragrances and pouring candles can be fun, creative and a little bit therapeutic. I learned about mindfulness in my therapy sessions and started to apply it to candle making. It makes it really enjoyable, and I feel very grateful that I get to do it for a living!
I started sharing my own life online more, as well as behind the scenes of operating the business. I eventually began blending this with regular content creation. The result has been so lovely, because I've successfully found a lovely community of alternative candle lovers on my social media platforms. That's how the business began, and since then it keeps finding new friends!
why do i run a candle company?
I wanted to create a business centered around high-quality handmade products that feel like a small, affordable treat.
For me personally (I know it's not for everyone), I love how atmospheric and fun candles can be. I really love how smell and scent preferences are so subjective and individual to each person, so choosing a candle scent that feels like you is a fun form of self-expression. 😊
Fully aware it sounds cringe and like I care A LOT about silly little candles, but when I integrated candles and wax melts into my own self-care, it really felt like a small treat.
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So, I wanted to bring that feeling to other people who were also struggling to get away from their day-to-day. I thought if I enjoy them for that reason, others will too. So I want to make THE BEST ONES. 😎
the early days...
2020
where it all began...newcastle studio number one...
I am entirely self-taught in my chandlery craft. I have learned everything I know through constant research and practise, and I'm still learning today.
I started out in this tiny studio in Newcastle Upon Tyne!
Leeds - Studio number two...
When I started this business, I worked in IT at Newcastle University. I took that job thinking it'd take a few years for the candles to take off, but it shockingly took six months.
So, I decided to pack up and move to Leeds. I put physical space between me and my past experiences and finally began targeted recovery therapy. The healing started, and the business grew.
That was February 2021. As my confidence and sense of self grew, my business did too. In October of 2021, RDC moved into an even bigger, better space for candle making. I outgrew this second studio within six months of moving in!
the first leeds studio, outgrown within 5 months of moving in.
the first "big" studio
leeds studio three... outgrown in 2024
In 2021 I moved into a larger studio, and over 2022 and 2023, started to receive awards for my work. My candles were advertised in magazines including Vogue and Tatler. I even appeared on the radio for BBC Leeds and BBC Newcastle.
My favourite thing to happen in this studio is that I got to officially promote Don't Hug Me I'm Scared's TV series for Channel 4. I've always loved it, so it felt so cool to me!
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In 2024 it was time to leave this studio after outgrowing yet again!
the current studio, where i hope to stay a while, castleton mill
Since early 2024 I've been happily settled at the beautiful Castleton Mill on Leeds Canal.
In the time since moving in, I've been able to collaborate with incredible brands, including Disney+ UK, Easy Tiger Tattoo, Trick Or Treat Bakery Co, Dead Cats Club UK and Black Coffee Worship!
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I've really started to find my own feet, and grow relationships with fellow small businesses and creators in my niche.
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I can't wait to see what RinkyDink has in store for me next, honestly! I've been grateful for every opportunity I've had! If you're reading this and would like to work with me on a collaborative project or promotional compaign, let's talk!
