Check Out Kimberly Dichosa’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kimberly Dichosa.

kimberly, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I started my candle business in 2022, originally creating fragrance products for other brands and boutiques through private label and wholesale partnerships. What began as a small manufacturing operation quickly grew as I focused on clean ingredients, elevated scent profiles, and thoughtful design.

As the business expanded, I launched my own retail concept, Ember & Alder, in Temecula. The store reflects my vision for refined, non toxic home fragrance and offers seasonal collections along with a refill program that encourages customers to reuse their vessels whiling receiving a discount.

We are growing a focus on sustainability and premium home fragrance. What started with hand poured candles has evolved into a brand centered on craftsmanship, atmosphere, and intentional living.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The road has been a bumpy along the way. I started making candles in my living room apartment, and as orders increased, the space slowly turned into what felt like a small warehouse. Boxes, wax, fragrance oils, and inventory took over every corner. It was exciting, but it also made it clear that growth was happening faster than I expected.

As we expanded, we faced rising material costs and tariff related supply challenges that directly impacted the business. Scaling production while protecting quality required constant adjustments and careful decision making. Each stage demanded that I grow alongside the business.

What began in a small apartment evolved into a dedicated workspace and eventually a retail storefront. The challenges were real, but they built the foundation for a stronger, more intentional brand.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I create elevated home fragrance products, specializing in clean burning candles made with non toxic ingredients and refined scent profiles.

We are known for thoughtful scent development, neutral and timeless design, and a strong commitment to quality. Every product is hand poured using natural soy wax, cotton wicks, and toxin free fragrances formulate without parabens and phthalates.

What I am most proud of is building a brand that feels both elevated and approachable. From starting in my living room to opening a retail storefront, every stage has been intentional. Our refill program is also something that sets us apart, allowing customers to reuse their vessels and approach fragrance in a more sustainable way.

What truly sets us apart is our commitment to being clean without compromising on sophistication. We focus on non toxic ingredients while maintaining a refined aesthetic and complex scent profiles. It is proof that you do not have to choose between elevated design and conscious formulation.

What matters most to you?
What matters most to me is integrity in both product and brand. I want every candle that leaves our studio to reflect quality, safety, and intention. From clean ingredients to thoughtful design, it is important that what we create aligns with our values.
At the end of the day, building something sustainable, honest, and long lasting matters more to me than fast growth. I want the foundation to be strong so the brand can evolve thoughtfully.

Pricing:

• 2oz Candle $13.95
• 6oz Candle $26.95
• 7oz Cork Candle $29.95
• 10oz Candle $36.95
• 12oz Candle $42.95

Contact Info:

• Website: emberandalder.com
• Instagram: Emberandalder

Image Credits
Andrew Apodaca
Bailey Clayton