Today we’d like to introduce you to Latrice Littleton.
Latrice, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I’ve always had a desire to create something unique to the marketplace. I wanted to create a business that involved a more hands-on approach (to enhance the quality of each product) and a creative process that would have a positive impact on the respective niche of the business. I’ve been in love with candles for as long as I can remember. I would choose varying scents to create a unique feeling or experience in each of my living spaces. After educating myself on the dangers of toxic candle burning and the long-term health effects, I decided to try my hand at creating a healthier option that would enhance the overall experience. My love for clean, sustainable products has led me to create a brand of plant-based scented candles that are clean, handmade, non-toxic and safe to burn. I launched Ardor Bin officially in 2017 after nearly one year of testing, fragrance education, sourcing raw materials and studying the intricacies of candle making. Ardor Bin is an extension of my personality and interior taste. I adore modern, elegant, and minimal interiors. The use of lush plants and vibrant flowers can really bring life and a sense of calmness to the home. I wanted to create a brand that honors this notion and to create fragrances that offer the ultimate sensory experience.
Great, 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?
The road for me as been such a great learning experience with a few bumps and hard lessons along the way. I will not say that it has been easy as this is far from my reality. Patience has really worked in my favor here. I knew very early on that I wanted to take the “slow and steady” approach with Ardor Bin. I never wanted to rush the process. Preparation is key, and I understand wholeheartedly that over-preparation is better than being presented with a great opportunity and not having the ability to take it due to a lack of readiness. There are many times where I felt that things were stagnant, and I often resolved to remind myself that the foundation is what holds it all together. I am really getting to understand my business, my audience, my products, what works, and what does not. As Ardor Bin continues to grow, I hope to continue to grow with it creatively. The main challenge is knowing when to get out of your own way and to allow the seeds that you’ve planted an opportunity to flourish when it’s time.
Please tell us about Ardor Bin.
Ardor Bin is a unique candle brand and this distinction lies with our ingredients. Our product range is composed of twelve scents that are derived from natural essential oils, hand-poured soy/coconut wax, and natural wood wicks from sustainable forests. Our wood wicks are FSC certified which means that they are being sourced for environmental, social, and economic benefits. The Forest Stewardship Council is a non-profit organization that promotes responsible management of forests around the world. I’ve dedicated a great deal of time to ensure that we are partnering and giving back to rural farmers and organizations through the process of planting trees and reducing our carbon footprint. I’m very proud to have created a brand that is environmentally responsible in our practices. Our ingredients are at the forefront of what makes our candles so appealing. Wood wicks release fragrance faster, create a relaxing ambiance with a soothing crackling sound, and offer an even burn. This helps our candles to last longer and to burn cleaner without carbon buildup. Ardor Bin’s brand ethos focuses on the health and well-being of our customers, and the environment with a collection of scents that exude elegance and sophistication.
Do you look back particularly fondly on any memories from childhood?
I really enjoyed camping with my family around the Great Lakes and Canada as a child. I think that this is when I truly fell in love with nature.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.ardorbin.com
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: @ardorbin
- Facebook: @ardorbin
- Twitter: @ardorbin
- Other: Latrice Littleton Instagram @latricelittleton
Image Credit:
Kris Leboeuf
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