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Inspiring Conversations with Jess Kennedy of Kindle & Bloom Candle Studio

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jess Kennedy

Hi Jess, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My journey into fragrance began with a simple yet telling question from friends and family: Why does your home always smell incredible, and where can I get that scent?
As a Registered Nurse, wellness has always been at the core of my values, and as I delved deeper into the world of home fragrance, I was struck by the industry’s compromises—mass-market candles filled with toxic ingredients and luxury brands with inaccessible price points. I saw a gap in the market for affordable luxury—a collection of refined, clean-burning candles and room sprays that embody sophistication without sacrificing quality or safety.

With Kindle & Bloom, I’ve created a brand that elevates everyday moments through fragrance—thoughtfully designed, meticulously crafted, and made for those who appreciate beauty, wellness, and timeless elegance in their space.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has been anything but a smooth road—like any young brand, the journey has been full of challenges. As a solo entrepreneur, I wear every hat in the business. Beyond hand-pouring each candle—a craft far more complex than many realize—I pick every scent, design and print my own labels, manage the website and social media, handle shipping, marketing, and event coordination, all while navigating an industry that is both highly competitive and deeply creative.

The candle market is undeniably saturated, and while some might find that daunting, I see it differently. I believe there’s space for every maker to bring their unique perspective to the table. I welcome working alongside other artisans because no two brands are the same—each tells a different story through scent. The real challenge isn’t the competition; it’s helping customers understand what sets Kindle & Bloom apart. Why my candles? Why my scents? Educating people on the craftsmanship, quality, and thoughtfulness behind each product is an ongoing effort, but it’s also what makes this journey so rewarding.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
I specialize in creating clean-burning, beautifully designed candles and room sprays that elevate everyday moments. Every product is made with 100% soy wax, cotton wicks, and clean fragrance oils, ensuring a safe and high-quality experience. My goal has always been to bridge the gap between high-end home fragrance and affordability, proving that luxury doesn’t have to come with an extravagant price tag.

What sets Kindle & Bloom apart is the attention to detail—every scent is carefully crafted to evoke elegance and warmth, every vessel is designed to complement your space, and every candle is made by hand, ensuring the highest level of quality. Beyond my core collection, I also offer custom candle design for a range of professionals and businesses, including med spas, realtors, AirBNB hosts, authors, and wedding clients. I love working with others to create signature scents that enhance their brand, space, or special event in a truly personal way.

I’m also expanding into wholesale partnerships, hoping to bring Kindle & Bloom to even more people who appreciate timeless, elevated fragrance. At the heart of it all, this company was built for you—for those who value quality, beauty, and the power of scent to transform a space. Whether it’s a quiet moment of self-care or a room filled with guests, Kindle & Bloom is here to make it feel even more special.

If we knew you growing up, how would we have described you?
Well—depending on who you ask, you might get very different answers! My siblings and friends would probably have their own takes, but at my core, I’ve always been deeply compassionate, which is what led me to a career in nursing. I love making people laugh, and while I like to think I’m funny, the irony is that I’ve also struggled with social anxiety. For years, it held me back from pursuing opportunities, but once I learned how to manage it (which is a conversation in itself), I started to truly thrive.

Becoming a chandler gave me an outlet—a way to channel my creativity and focus. For someone who has experienced anxiety, putting yourself out there in a big way can feel overwhelming, but I’ve learned to push through that fear because I genuinely love what I do. Even now, I still get nervous before events, but the joy of connecting with people and sharing my craft always outweighs the nerves.

Beyond fragrance, I’ve always been drawn to interior design and the art of making spaces feel warm, inviting, and beautiful. Kindle & Bloom is an extension of that passion—helping people create environments that feel like home, not just look like it.

Pricing:

  • 4 oz Travels tins are- 10.00
  • My 10 oz glass jars are- 23.00
  • My 15 oz glass jars are -30.00
  • I have a room spray line- 32.00 and will last you a whole year!

Contact Info:

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