Meet Olivia Reed | Candlemaker.

We had the good fortune of connecting with Olivia Reed and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Olivia, maybe we can start at the very start – the idea – how did you come up with the idea for your business?
This is quite a round-about way to answer this, but bear with me… About 2 years ago my mother’s company rented out a a large studio where, from scratch, she designed the most incredible office space, which since has been decorated with bright colourful glassware that had all been thrifted, and I absolutely fell in love with the pieces. I always thought a bunch of the items would make gorgeous candles, then back in February 2021 I had finally finished one of my favourite Christmas candles, so I invested in a few wicks, and melted a bunch of tea-lights to give the candle vessel a new life with a different vibe, and it was a huge hit with everyone who saw it!

One afternoon in April, a little while after I had set up my shop’s Etsy store, mum and I were in a charity shop donating a bunch of old clothes where I stumbled upon the most gorgeous glassware in the home section which she then suggested I use as a candle vessel, and … the rest is history!

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I graduated from drama school during the start of the pandemic and honestly, it really was an emotional challenge to keep up faith in myself in the months afterwards. So many audition/job rejections takes a toll on your mental health, because for artists (of any kind), you are your own business, so constantly being told ‘no’, not because of your education, or experience, but just because of things out of your control, it becomes difficult to stay positive.

I had no idea I would start my own small business a year ago. A few months after graduating I sort of put a pause on my acting career and began working for a marketing and strategy company which taught me an immense amount about how to manage myself, and my expectations of others. I learned a tremendous amount from my boss and colleagues and am eternally thankful for them pushing me to stay focused. I took that learned focus into other aspects of my life, and I believe I am an actual adult now.

I still believe my calling in life is to perform, but who is to say that I cannot be an actor AND run a candle business! But to anyone who says I cannot, all I have to say is, watch me.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
OMG I love this question!!!

I always get way too excited when people come to visit London, particularly if it is their first time. Regardless of whether or not the weather is gloomy, I always recommend doing the London Southbank Walk, starting by The London Eye all the way East past The Globe Theatre in Southwark, around Borough Market (some of the best donuts in town there…), keep walking along the river till you get to Potter’s Field by Tower Bridge. This area is the most beautiful spot in the evening/at night! There is a grocery store around the corner, so grab some snacks and a g&t then sit and enjoy the sparkling city lights… Oh it is just fantastic.

If you’re looking for a restaurant quality meal that tastes homemade, go to Ffiona’s on Kensington Church Street and despite being a vegetarian now, I swear the Chicken Kiev is the best on the entire planet, nowhere beats it. It is run by the hilarous and warmest soul, Ffiona who has been there for over 29 years!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I owe a lot to my parents, my little sister, big brother and my partner for their constant encouragement and support in creating this small business. Also a special shoutout to Sydney for being my first customer <3

Website: https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/LivisLabLondon?ref=shop_sugg

Instagram: @LivisLabLondon

Image Credits
Headshot images taken by Patch Bell Photography.