Conversations with Macy Graham

Today we’d like to introduce you to Macy Graham.

Hi Macy, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
Prior to my story involving candles, I became a licensed cosmetologist, with interest in working on movies and tv shows, doing hairstyles for the stars. Covid came in and changed my want to continue in the beauty industry, so I minimally changed paths to opening a tattoo shop with my father where we provided permanent makeup services.This was nice because it was still in the beauty industry and still a creative outlet, but a different clientele. I got over that very quick when a traveling opportunity came about, and my parents encouraged me to go. I was only 21, and I still feel so thankful they pushed for and supported me to go live out my youth.

I began working for SoCal Candle Rentals in May 2023, strictly as a day-of designer. I was in a phase of life where I was unsure about what career direction I wanted to pursue and I had just gotten back from a traveling Asia for a few months – setting up beautiful weddings on occasional weekends was an inviting, creative gig. June 2024 I began working for a florist at her shop (Amy Samuel – Evermore Floral Co), quickly growing my interest in the whole wedding and event industry. In November 2024, Mindy Halley, founder of SoCal Candle Rentals, pitched the opportunity of franchising as a strategic next step following the company’s significant growth. She is based in Carlsbad, CA and loves working in San Diego and Temecula, so offered LA and OC. After looking over numbers from the past years and evaluating the circumstances, it was an easy yes. My parents were eager to join me on this journey, and together we quickly began learning the business.

Since starting from scratch with building our warehouse, growing our inventory, and learning the programs necessary in December 2024, all of 2025 has almost been a blur. We ended our first year in business with 102 events under our belt. It was quite overwhelming all year because we were not only starting fresh on our end, but we did our best to keep up the reputation Mindy created from the past years. Booking clients, hiring employees, working with large brands, and setting up events every weekend quickly became our new normal. There was several moments throughout this first year in business, especially being partners with my parents, that required a lot of communication and deep breaths, but I am so thankful to have them by my side. Throughout this year of candles, I have also continued to work under Amy with florals, which has only taught me more about what goes into planning and behind the scenes work. i am thankful to have another form of continuous learning for the event planning industry.

As we look ahead, we’re energized by what’s possible—cheers to growth, opportunity, and reaching our full potential. This is only the beginning!

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I look back at the year and cannot believe that my team with our employees completed 102 events. It was not a smooth road – in fact I actually felt like a chicken running around with its head cut off all year. I look back to myself at the beginning of the year and I wish I could prepare her for the wild (yet exciting) year she is about to encounter.

Navigating the different roles of relationships with my parents/business partners was rough at the beginning – it started off with every conversation being about candles and the business, but with open communication and mutual respect, we were able to find balance and build a stronger partnership.

Another struggle that immediately comes to mind was having 4-5 weddings in one day, and we could not be at all places at once. We would be jumping from wedding to event (a great problem to have) because we did not want to turn down any event. I am proud to say that we hired a handful of lovely employees this year who we would not have been successful without!

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Our team comes in and brings magic to your event. Our collection includes premium granulated wax candles (in heights ranging from 6”-31″), floating candles, pillars, long stemmed cylinder vases, taper candles, and more.

The most ordered type of candle are the premium granulated wax candles, which are my favorite. I love the impact the large floor candles create, transforming the event space. Not only do they add warmth and elegance, but they also create a memorable atmosphere that guests always remark on.

While we are known mainly for the granulated wax candles, I have found a love for every type of candle. I am most proud of not any specific candle, but the staff that I bring to set up the candle. Each staff member of mine has grown to have their own creative opinion when designing. This has alleviated stress throughout the year as we can support each other immediately if someone is having a creative block when setting up a space. I also am proud of how flexible and team oriented my staff is. Whether there is a new venue layout or a timeline switch, my team will get it done with a smile on their face. I am most proud of who I call my team at SoCal Candle Rentals LA + OC.

What was your favorite childhood memory?
Growing up, my parents always encouraged a creative household. I have two older siblings who I am proud to still have a strong relationship with to this day (and they assist with candles when things are hectic). With countless memories, one that stands out more than others is making a mud pie factory in dirt area my childhood home’s backyard – either after a rainy day or creating our own river with a hose, my sister Raegan and I would sit out there for hours, strictly making mud pies. Maybe it felt luxurious to us as children? Sitting in mud in our bathing suits on a hot day, exfoliating our skin with the endless amount of rocks in our mud. When we were over it, we’d hose ourselves off and probably jump in the pool for a quick shower, and continue when we felt like it. It was endless hours throughout my childhood that made a large impact of both my sister and I, so much so that when I asked her about her favorite childhood memory, she immediately said “mud pies.”

Pricing:

• Full Service Package
• DIY Package

Contact Info:

• Website: https://socalcandlerentals.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/socalcandlerentals_la_oc
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SoCalCandleRentals
• LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/macygraham
• Yelp: SoCal Candle Rentals Reviews
• Other: https://www.weddingwire.com/biz/socal-candle-rentals-la/

Image Credits
Instagrams:
@bryannguyen.photography
@weddymood.studio
@whitedewfloral
@marsheckaweddings
@csufalumnihouse
@jessierowanphotography
@magicalblooms
@pvgcevents
@jessica.rice.photography
@evermorefloral