Exploring Life & Business with Izzy Stangl of Nou

Today we’d like to introduce you to Izzy Stangl.

Hi Izzy, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My world changed the day I left New Zealand and moved to California in 2017. I was 20 years old, on my own for the first time, and utterly terrified. I decided I needed a mental shift, so I began buying myself a new candle every time I faced a new challenge. As a result, my attitude towards change CHANGED and I felt in control of my life again. Now when I come across the same scents, I’m reminded of how those uncomfortable times shaped who I am today. I wanted to replicate this powerful ritual, so I created a brand called nou with a collection of candles inspired by nou (new) opportunities! Today I’m the one-woman-show behind nou and I’m so excited to continue growing my small business!

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?
I’m sure everyone can agree that 2020 has been a roller coaster. When I lost my corporate marketing job at the beginning of the pandemic, I was completely heartbroken. But something told me it wasn’t the end…it was just the beginning of a nou chapter. The idea of nou had been festering in my mind for about a year. So when I found myself unemployed in quarantine, I seized the opportunity to finally turn my dream into a reality. In a year defined by radical change, I launched nou—a brand with a purpose of helping people remain positive during times of uncertainty.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
At nou, we believe change is an opportunity for personal growth. That’s why we’re replacing fear of the unknown with a reason to celebrate…nou candles! Our collection of scents represent exciting experiences everyone can relate to (e.g., a nou beginning, nou mindset, nou chapter, etc.). We hand-pour all of our candles in Los Angeles, California using premium fragrance oils and coconut wax. Our non-toxic minimalist candles are available at noucandles.com or in person at The Melrose Trading Post Market. In addition to making high-quality products, nou is also committed to creating a supportive community by using our platform to discuss change. So if you’re reading this, we’d love to hear your story! We’re a brand with a purpose and we invite you to join the conversation. Let’s celebrate change together!

Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
The one book that always grounds me teaches me, and motivates me to keep going is the book I’m writing myself (a.k.a my journal!) I never thought I’d be the type of person who journaled…but I started when I moved to California in 2017 and it was the best decision I ever made. I don’t write everyday, but sometimes I’ll write 20 pages in one sitting (those are usually the tough times when I need to express my emotions). The best part about journaling is being able to read back and reflect. I’ve realized that even the worst days ultimately play an important role in my story and that positive outlook has helped me to do my best in life. The way I see it, journaling is like having an ongoing conversation between your past, present, and future self. I would strongly recommend journaling to anyone who can pick up a pen. The only regret I have is not starting earlier! I’m currently on my fourth book and I’m excited to someday understand how everything happened for a reason.

Pricing:

• Our candles retail at $32

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Website: noucandles.com
• Instagram: @noucandles
• Facebook: @noucandles
• Other: TikTok @noucandles

Image Credit:
Crystal Melody Photography