Shedding Light on 2023
Sparking joy in 2023.
A Bougie Year in Review
Looking back on our first year in business, we’re so grateful for the memories created, the (many) challenges overcome, and most especially, our wonderful customers. Join us as we take a moment to reflect on the crazy journey that was 2023.
Products:
One of the year's highlights was creating and expanding our product lines. We introduced scents that told unique stories and - we hope - spread joy.
While some fragrances resonated more than others - hello, Beach House - some were…controversial, to say the least. I’m lookin’ at you, Harvest Moon. It was fascinating to see who loved which scents. Pamplemousse was a hit with the guys, and Gold Standard speaks to a very particular lover of patchouli and spice.
Number of custom scents introduced: 18
Classic customer favorites: Beach House, Pashmina, and Pamplemousse
Seasonal customer favorites: Bewitched, Winter Forest, and Merry Berry
Sustainability:
Environmental consciousness was at the forefront of our goals for 2023. We continued our commitment to this by offering reusable vessels and eco-friendly packaging and sourcing responsibly harvested wax and the cleanest possible fragrance oils, locally when possible.
Number of local vendors sourced: 7
Percentage of eco-friendly packaging used: 90%
Reusable vessels used: 100%
Community:
Our community of candle enthusiasts continued to grow, both on and offline. We hope the Bougie community will continue to be a space where like-minded individuals can come together to inspire, inform, and enjoy.
Online orders launched: March 2023
Number of social media followers: 356 (and growing!)
Innovation:
From artisanal hand-poured creations to customized vendor collaborations, I poured my heart into my craft to make each candle a unique experience.
Seasonal candles created: Ultra Violet, Joie de Vivre, Glampsite, Harvest Moon, Enchanted, Bewitched, Spellbound, Frost, Merry Berry, Winter Forest
Special collaborations: we made the cutest cinnamon bun accessory with the Marnin Salylor Cinnamon Chai candle, a delectable chocolate candle called Bon Bon with local Ballard shop Truffles & More, and a lovely sandalwood blend for Brocante Beach House in West Seattle.
Reach:
Our candles found their way into homes as we represented Bougie at diverse events, reaching new markets and introducing the line at large maker fairs, local popups, and charity events.
Number of events where Bougie Candles had a presence: 28
Online, we reached customers as far away as Hawaii, Delaware, and Canada!
To wrap up 2023, we’d like to express deep gratitude to our customers, partners, and the entire Bougie community for their unwavering support. The past year has been a testament to the power of light, fragrance, and the simple joy that a well-crafted candle can bring. We’re already anticipating what 2024 has in store, ready to continue to push the envelope on what’s possible.
Cheers to a bright and fragrant future!
