A Creative Challenge: Pushing Boundaries and Painting Candles

Every year, between Christmas and New Year, I take time to reflect on the past year and set goals for the one ahead. This year, one thing stood out to me: I was exhausted and felt like I was doing the same thing over and over. I hadn’t done enough to push myself creatively, or even give myself the opportunity to try. So, I decided to change that.

Why February? Renewal, Light, and Letting Go

I chose February for this challenge intentionally. The month gets its name from Februa, an ancient Roman festival of purification—a time to shed the old and make space for the new. To me, this feels like the perfect moment to confront my own self-doubt and embrace creativity.

After the long, dark days of January, February also marks the gradual return of lighter evenings. It’s a quiet but powerful reminder that we’ve survived winter’s toughest stretch, and brighter days lie ahead. For me, this challenge is a form of self-love: a way to let go of old beliefs and step into the light of possibility.

Why This Challenge Matters to Me

When people tell me they think I’m creative, my instant reaction is to disagree. “I can’t draw or paint,” I say. “I’m not creative—candle making is more science than creativity.” I’m not sure where this belief came from, but I do know it’s held me back. Years ago, I wanted to study photography, but I was rejected from my first choice of university because I hadn’t done a foundation in art. At the time, I didn’t understand why that mattered—I didn’t dream of being a painter or a sculptor. I just wanted to take pictures.

That rejection obviously stuck with me because, over time, I’ve convinced myself that creativity isn’t my strength. But last year was incredibly challenging, and this year, I’m determined to do things differently. I want to step outside my comfort zone, try new things, and prove to myself that creativity isn’t about being “good” at something—it’s about the courage to try.

The Creative Challenge: Painting Taper Candles

For the entire month of February, I’m taking on a creative challenge: painting taper candles. If you know my work, you’ll know this is wildly different from what I usually do. My business revolves around scented candles in a minimalist style—clean lines, beautiful fragrances, and understated elegance. But this challenge isn’t about subtlety. It’s about colour, imperfection, and experimentation.

Painting candles is something I’ve never been formally taught, and it’s a deliberate departure from my comfort zone. While my scented candles focus on simplicity and sensory calm, these painted tapers are about embracing the joy of learning something new.

There are no strict rules for this challenge—just a commitment to being creative. Some designs might have multiple pairs available, while others will be one-of-a-kind. Each candle will be unique, reflecting my exploration of what happens when I let go of “perfection” and embrace play.

At the end of the month, all the candles I’ve painted will be auctioned off, with the auction closing on 28th February at 8pm GMT. There’s no reserve on the items, and the bidding process is simple: place your bid, and if you win, you’ll receive a payment link once the auction ends. If you’re worried about missing out on a design you love, don’t worry—the auction will extend to allow two people to bid on the same item.

Why This Auction Matters

This auction is about more than just selling candles. It’s about personal growth, pushing boundaries, and proving to myself that I can do something I once believed I couldn’t. It’s also a celebration of stepping beyond the familiar. While my minimalist scented candles will always be part of my work, this challenge is a reminder that creativity thrives when we venture into the unknown.

The proceeds from this auction will go toward things my small business needs to grow and thrive. Running a business is tough, especially right now, and your support helps me continue to innovate—whether that’s through scent, design, or, yes, even paint.

How You Can Be Part of This Journey

I’d love for you to join me on this creative adventure. Here’s how you can get involved:

  • Mark your calendar: The auction ends on 28th February at 8pm GMT, so don’t miss your chance to bid on these unique, hand-painted candles.

  • Share the story: Tell your friends, family, or anyone who might be interested in supporting a small business and owning a one-of-a-kind piece of art.

  • Let me know what you think! If this challenge is successful, I might do more auctions in the future—maybe even testing out new scents (because any excuse to trial new fragrances is always welcome!) or continuing to paint candles over the summer.

Let’s Create Something Beautiful Together

This challenge is about more than just painting candles—it’s about breaking down self-imposed barriers and embracing the joy of creativity. By participating in the auction, you’re not just buying a candle; you’re supporting a journey of growth, experimentation, and self-discovery.

February’s themes of renewal and light remind us that even small acts of courage can illuminate new paths. So, mark your calendar, share this post, and join me in celebrating the beauty of trying something new. Let’s see where this creative challenge takes us!

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