Today we’d like to introduce you to Janella Shirley.
Hi Janella, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
My story is truly one of perseverance, hope, and ultimately joy. I am a corporate attorney by trade as well as the owner of my luxury candle line, LR² Luxe: Light.Relax.Repeat. While I’m extremely proud of everything I’ve accomplished in my legal career thus far, I’m especially proud of starting my candle business from the ground up.
I created my candle line in 2021 during one of the most challenging times of my life. Candles became a daily source of peace for me as I healed physically and emotionally from the trauma I endured as a survivor of a violent crime. Every morning, I’d light a beautiful candle, grab a hot cup of coffee, wrap myself in a soft throw, and write in my journal to center myself and prepare for my day.
On some of my toughest days, candles and journaling were the fuel that kept me uplifted. It was during one of my morning sessions that LR² Luxe was conceived. I created LR² Luxe to share the peace and joy that the warm flame and lush scent of a beautiful candle brings me.
What started as a hobby to indulge my love for all things scents and a great distraction on my healing journey, has now evolved into an absolute passion and a successful collection of luxury candles that look as good as they smell! I pour my love and passion into each candle I create, and my only hope is that they are a source of comfort and joy to anyone who experiences them.
My message for anyone who finds themselves in a season of difficult circumstances is that there is so much life to be lived on the other side of your hurt, pain, and trauma if you just hold on and do not give up. It won’t be easy, but you will get through it if you take it day by day. Never be afraid to ask for help and support from loved ones or a professional therapist if you are struggling.
There were certainly days that I wanted to give up. I named one of my first candles “Sunny Days Ahead” amid these difficult days. I can truly say now that by God’s grace I’ve persevered to the other side where I found my “sunny days” of immeasurable joy, peace, and wholeness.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Creating my luxury candle line has not been without some growing pains. I’ve learned so much along the way and I’m still learning. I’ve had supply chain issues, rising costs, products and ideas I thought would be a big hit that were not, and much more. Through it all, however, things always work out if I remain flexible, pivot when needed, and keep moving forward.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I think what sets my brand, LR² Luxe apart from others is my desire and drive to create a candle line that goes beyond the run-of-the-mill candles that are so common today. I design each candle using unique vessels that seamlessly blend in with your home decor and a custom wax blend that maximizes the scent strength of each fragrance.
It’s also my attention to detail that sets my brand apart. Whether it’s hand-tying ribbons for every gift box, including a personal affirmation card with every candle, or sourcing the highest-quality vessels and materials; I aim to make each candle purchase a personalized experience for my customers.
Who else deserves credit for your story?
My friends and family are the real MVPs! They have not only supported me through their purchases, but they constantly share my social media posts, refer my products to others, and keep me encouraged. I am forever grateful for their love and support! One company I’d like to shout out individually is Ze Lemar Design (@zelemar_design).
This awesome luxury furniture and interior design company has been one of my strongest supporters since day one. They’ve incorporated my candles in their ultra-creative design concepts and constantly referred my products to others. I am truly grateful for the support!
Contact Info:
- Website: LightRelaxRepeat.com
- Instagram: @lr2luxecandles
Image Credits
Allyson I. Rhodes, Abbie Mae Studio, and Lynn Creates Photography
