I started Rene's Scented Spark at 55 when I was battling depression, menopause, and a job I dreaded going to every day. My kids were grown and living their own lives, and I remember thinking — is this really it for me?

Then I ordered a candle kit off Amazon. It didn't go well. But something about it lit me up, so I bought a book, taught myself, and eventually found my way to making candles I was truly proud of. I started gifting them to coworkers and became addicted to their reactions — the way a candle could make someone feel seen, calm, and cared for.

I figured there had to be so many women my age feeling exactly what I felt. Stuck. Invisible. Wondering what their next chapter looks like.

This business is my answer to that question. And every candle I make is a small reminder that it's never too late to find your spark again.