Story & Lesson Highlights with Lauren Dunbar of Phoenix

Lauren Dunbar shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.

Lauren, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What’s more important to you—intelligence, energy, or integrity?
Integrity

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi, I’m Lauren Dunbar a wife, mom, full-time analyst, and the heart behind Lulling Candles and Co. I started this small business in 2020 because of my deep love for candles and the joy and peace they bring to a space. But my journey wasn’t just about creating beautiful scents, it was personal. For years, I struggled to find candles that were safe to burn around my husband, who has chronic asthma, and my grandfather, who had COPD. Most mass-produced candles would trigger breathing issues, and I knew there had to be a cleaner, gentler alternative. That’s when Lulling Candles and Co. was born.
Although the idea for Lulling Candles began in 2020, I didn’t fully launch my brand until 2021. I spent over a year carefully testing scents and waxes to make sure I was creating the cleanest, most gentle candles possible. Lulling Candles and Co. is a brand dedicated to crafting beautiful, clean-burning candles that everyone can enjoy even people with sensitivities and allergies can actually enjoy, because we never add color dyes or unnecessary additives to our products. Each candle is hand-poured with care using pure, high-quality wax. I’m passionate about blending unique, soothing scents that fill your space with calm, not chemicals.

What’s new: We’re currently gearing up for market season and can’t wait to bring back our favorite fall fragrances now with a fresh, elegant twist!

Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
My relationship with my husband has had a profound impact on how I view myself. Through his support and insight, I was able to recognize moments when I was stepping outside of my authentic self often in an effort to meet perceived expectations or fit into roles that didn’t align with who I truly am. His encouragement helped me embrace my individuality and let go of the need for external validation. This relationship has shaped the way I approach my daily life with greater self-awareness, confidence, and intention. It taught me the value of living without judgment, honoring my personal truth, and finding comfort in who I am, rather than who I think I need to be for others.

Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Yes, there were several times when I considered giving up. Running a business is far from easy, and there were moments when the pressure felt overwhelming when I truly questioned whether I could continue. I often found myself discouraged, especially in a saturated market where it seemed like there were countless other candle businesses. It was hard not to wonder, Is there really space for me? The process of finding and being accepted into vendor markets added another layer of uncertainty. There were many factors that made me feel like walking away. But in those moments, I reminded myself of something important: there is room for all of us. The passion I have for candle making for creating clean, chemical-free products that bring comfort and peace into people’s homes kept pulling me back. I genuinely love what I do, even through the challenges. In late 2022-2023, I had to take a year-long break from candle making not by choice, but due to a high-risk pregnancy and doctor’s orders. That time away gave me space to pause and evaluate everything. I asked myself the hard questions: Is this still worth it? Should I return? I went back and forth, but ultimately that break became a gift. It helped me realign with my purpose and reconnect with the “why” behind my brand. that clarity reminded me that this business is more than just a creative outlet. it’s a reflection of what I value most: wellness, intention, and authenticity. And that’s why I continue, with renewed focus and a deeper appreciation for every step of the journey the highs and the lows.

So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. Whose ideas do you rely on most that aren’t your own?
My biggest inspiration comes from my family and closest friends. Every scent in my collection is connected to them it’s either a reflection of their personality, their energy, or a memory we’ve shared. They’re each so unique, and I wanted to create fragrances that capture their vibe in candle form. My brand is really a family project at heart, and every time someone lights one of my candles, they’re experiencing a little piece of the people who inspire me most.

Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. If you knew you had 10 years left, what would you stop doing immediately?
If I had only 10 years left to live, I would immediately let go of doubt and truly live freely. I’d pour my energy into experiencing life to the fullest cherishing every moment with my son, my husband, and my family. I’d focus on making beautiful memories, traveling to the places on my bucket list, and embracing every opportunity that brings joy, love, and adventure into our lives.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.lullingcandles.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lullingcandles/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lullingcandlesandco/

Image Credits
Martez Cornelius and Emily Dill