In the first of our Behind the Brand series, we speak to Margaret, founder and perfumer at Sómas Studio. Hand-crafted in her studio in Cork, Margaret makes a beautiful range of luxurious candles and fragrances,
When did you first start candle making and what inspired you to pursue it as a business?
In 2014 I moved into my own apartment for the first time, and this was when I first started making candles. I have always loved fragrances – especially home fragrances. I love how they can help you to completely transform a space, from making your home a relaxing oasis, to bringing fun and uplifting ambience. Fragrances just have this amazing ability to shift our mood and almost transport us to a different place.
At the time I was purchasing a lot of candles and diffusers, trying to create a comforting feeling in this new empty space. The very same year for Christmas, my friend surprised me with a candle making kit! It was such an ‘aha’ moment. I never before thought of making candles at home but the kit has really inspired me to pursue this passion. Almost immediately I purchased more supplies online and have continued with the hobby for many years.
The business happened very organically. From just gifting candles to friends and family, I loved it so much I was inadvertently building my own collection. In early 2019 I decided to maybe trial the concept with a small online store and the rest is history! The business grew very organically from my kitchen table, to a small and then a big studio. It’s such an exciting journey and I can’t wait for all of our new product launches and to bring the Sómas joy to a wider audience.
Sómas is built around capturing the magic of the Irish landscape…..where was this idea born from?
Blending fragrances and making my first products was always my comfort. It was an escape from the everyday life and something that was bringing me a lot of joy. I always had a good ‘nose’ for things and memorised experiences through scent, so a lot of fragrances in the collection capture my personal memories of my favourite moments or places. I absolutely adore Rossbeigh beach in Co. Kerry and every time I light Driftwood & Sea Salt it’s like I’m transported there, breathing in the salt air and listening to the crashing waves. Similarly Rosewood & Pear reminds me of a road trip around Co. Clare with my mom and all the beautiful moments we shared.
Your packaging is inspired by local Irish legends….which is your favourite legend and why?
Children of Lir is probably my favourite. Albeit not the happiest of stories I loved it since I was very little and love it to this day.
Which is your favourite Somas scent?
I have a different favourite nearly every week! It very much depends on my mood and the time of the year. I adore floral and fruity notes in Spring and Summer and always reach for more more woody and earthy fragrances in Autumn and Winter. But I guess if I had to pick one favourite it would be Oakwood and Musk because of the memories and story behind it.
Any tips for our readers who might be interested in learning the art of candle-making?
Just enjoy it! I think it’s a fantastic experience creating your own unique blend and signature home scent. It’s such a creative process, from fragrance to design you can really put your creative stamp on it and make it super unique to you.
You can shop a range of Sómas luxurious candles online and in-store now. Browse the collection here > meadowsandbyrne.com/somas.html
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