We were lucky to catch up with Shameka recently and have shared our conversation below.
Shameka, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Naming anything – including a business – is so hard. Right? What’s the story behind how you came up with the name of your brand?
“When I started my candle company, I wanted a name that carried more than just pretty words — I wanted it to carry meaning. 1857 is woven together from my children’s birthdays, a quiet love letter to the ones who inspire everything I do. Each candle I create is rooted in that love, crafted to wrap a room in fragrance and invite moments of self-care, comfort, and connection into everyday life.”
Shameka, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
I’m Shameka, Founder, Head Chandler, and Fragrance Artist at 1857 Candle Co., a luxury home fragrance brand rooted in storytelling, self-care, and connection. I started this journey because I believe scent is one of the most powerful ways to create mood, evoke memory, and make a space feel like home. My love for fragrance came from wanting to surround myself—and others—with beauty, comfort, and intentional moments of pause in the middle of our busy lives.
At 1857 Candle Co., I design and handcraft candles, perfumes, body care, and other fragrance products using premium ingredients and unique scent compositions. Some of my skincare products were first created to help with my son’s skin issues, which means every formula is as functional as it is luxurious. Every collection tells a story — from my Passport Collection that captures the spirit of global destinations, to seasonal flights that invite you to explore scent in a new way. I blend clean, luxury materials with distinctive fragrances that can’t be found anywhere else, giving my customers something deeply personal and elevated.
What sets me apart is the way I approach fragrance as an experience rather than just a product. I’m not just selling a candle or a bottle of body oil — I’m creating an atmosphere, a feeling, and often a memory. My clients come to me because they want something that feels like them, that speaks to their style, and that they can connect with every time they light a wick or wear a scent.
I’m most proud of the fact that my brand is a love letter to my family — even the name 1857 carries the birth dates of my children. It’s a reminder that every product I make is rooted in love, care, and intention. I want potential customers and followers to know that when they choose 1857 Candle Co., they’re not just buying something beautiful — they’re choosing to slow down, take care of themselves, and fill their lives with meaningful little luxuries.
What’s been the best source of new clients for you?
The best way for me to gain new customers has been showing up in the field, through vendor markets and word of mouth. At these events, I get to tell my story, share my passion, and connect with people directly. I often have my family with me, showing their love and support, which makes the experience even more authentic. Seeing firsthand reactions to my creations, receiving live feedback, and building relationships with customers has not only created repeat buyers but also fostered a sense of community around 1857 Candle Co.
Okay – so how did you figure out the manufacturing part? Did you have prior experience?
Yes, I handcraft all of my products. I got started by purchasing a candle-making kit online. I had no prior experience, just a desire to try something that had been on my heart for years. The moment I completed my first candle, I knew this was my calling. The very next day, I ordered supplies from a reputable supplier to continue testing and refining, which launched my journey into creating luxury, hand-poured candles, perfumes, and body care. That first spark taught me that following your passion, even without formal knowledge, can lead to building something truly meaningful.”
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.1857candleco.com
- Instagram: the1857candleco
