See full article on : https://www.qeepupnation.com/2021/01/29/startup-spotlight-on-the-candlemakers-threesix9-i-nioi-bonafide-paris/
One thing we’re so appreciative of is our talented friends. We’re surrounded by smart, kind and creative makers and doers. This is what Startup Spotlight is about: showcasing the entrepreneurial spirit of the amazing people we know—and that you know, too!
If there’s someone you think we should Spotlight (or if it’s you), tell us, please: hello@qeepupnation.com.
We’re kicking things off with candles because who doesn’t love them? Somehow, we personally know three incredibly gifted candlemakers—from LA to Paris—who make beautifully different and luxurious candles that are all over our offices and homes. Trust us, you’ll want them, too!
Lucky You! We’re giving away a candle by each of our Candlemakers. Sign up for the newsletter (down below) to be the first to know when our Giveaway starts. […]
Bonafide Paris by Sarah Cami
A Parisienne who spent many years as an expat in Asia, Sarah Cami comes from the luxury fashion and beauty world. On her return to Paris, Sarah had an idea about bringing together master artisans to create a quintessentially French candle—chic, glossy and very feminine.
How did Bonafide begin?
I met this star perfumer, Nathalie Feisthauer, who’s created fragrances for Hermes, Cartier and many others. I didn’t have the confidence to suggest creating a perfume, but I thought a candle can combine my passion for perfume, art, color, and shapes. After Nathalie liked the idea, I knew I couldn’t have average containers so I went to the best ceramic people in Limoges—and they said yes! The porcelain containers are certified Limoges, proper tableware. Then I went to the best wax people who make the wax for the most beautiful brands that I’m not allowed to say.
Finally, I needed someone to illustrate the ceramics. I found this young French artist, Armelle Tissier, and she was able to illustrate my idea for the eyes perfectly.
You have two collections. What’s the inspiration behind them?
“Les Portraits” (Portraits) is my scented collection. I wanted this collection to represent a real woman, who is multi-dimensional and multi-faceted. So this is not a collection of eight different women, but one woman and her different moments.
“Les Parfaites” (Perfect) are unscented lacquered candles. They are so glossy you could do your makeup in them! This collection turned out to be a bit of a feminist thing. The candles are all different colors, sizes, heights. They’re all round, but not perfectly round because then you can’t sit them. But that’s the point. You always hear perfection doesn’t exist. If that’s the case, then we’re all perfect! That’s logical.
Do you think Frenchwomen have more of a passion for perfume? Because as an American, my friends and I don’t really wear perfume on the daily.
You don’t? Interesting. Perfume in France is cultural. Everyone wears perfume, including men. My girls are 11 and 12 and they wear perfume.
Perfume is special. If I forget to put it on, it’s rare. I think about what Marilyn Monroe said about wearing nothing in bed but Chanel No. 5. I put on perfume after I shower and before bed.
