In conversation with Ella from Painted Flame

Like many others over lockdown, I found myself returning to old hobbies to make my Saturday nights a bit more entertaining! I found my old paints and stumbled across some candles that my grandma had given me. I then spent my evenings painting candles with different floral designs for my family, friends and neighbours as little lockdown gifts. This then grew through word of mouth and I began to supply most of my street with candles. Painted Flame was born. 

How would you describe your style of candle painting? 

I like simple patterned designs with complimentary bold/pastel shades. I also love personalising the candles with dates, names, initials - I think they make the perfect, thoughtful gift and each one is unique.

 

Where is your favourite place to get creative? 

Alongside returning to painting over lockdown, I also returned to running. I love going on a long run through our local parks and I find it the best way for me to think of new designs. As soon as I am back home, I'll scribble them on a piece of paper so I don't forget! And then trial variations with different candle colours/paints.

 

 

What advice do you have for any aspiring candle painters? 

Start simple - the best designs are always the simplest! And always paint from the top of the candle to the bottom, twisting it as you work downwards to get an even coverage. 

 

What’s been your biggest achievement/proudest moment/career highlight so far?  

It may seem small, but just the fact that my candles are stocked up and down the country in beautiful shops makes me smile everyday! I started Painted Flame as a bit of fun for friends and family, so knowing that strangers are buying, gifting and displaying my candles just blows my mind a bit!

 

What Does International Women’s Day mean to you?  

IWD is a day of celebration, but also a day to remind ourselves that there is still a lot that needs to be done to elevate women's positions and provide them with the same opportunities and treatment that men receive. We are grateful in this country that we have come a long way and women do have the opportunity to do amazing things, however this is certainly not the case worldwide. IWD is a day of celebration and education. 

 

Is there a woman that has inspired you most in life/your career? 

My grandma (whose candles were the first I painted) inspires me everyday to be the best person I can be for myself and others. She had this ability to make everyone around her happy as she was just a ray of sunshine. Whenever I am in a tricky situation, I always think, what would she do? and I immediately feel calmer and happier. If everyone was a bit more like her, the world would be a great place. 

 

What’s next for you? Anything exciting plans/projects for 2022?  

This year I am looking to expand our homewares offering, particularly candle holders. I get asked numerous times a day where to source cute holders for the candles, so that is next on the stocklist! I will then look to offer bundles with holders and candles as a tablescape set to make it easier to dress your table.

 

 

Quick Fire Round