Many of you know my story, but for those who don’t, here’s a simplified version. My father was an entrepreneur, and throughout my life, I watched him navigate the highs and lows of running his own business. Inspired by his journey, I dreamed of owning my own store one day, even if I wasn't sure what it would look like. I vividly remember telling him, "Dad, one day I will own my own business." He always encouraged me, confidently affirming that he knew I would.
I experimented with various ventures, from creating and selling gift baskets to baking cakes and even making a friend’s wedding cake. Despite these endeavours, I initially took a more conventional route, earning a diploma in Legal Administration. I landed a job at a law firm but quickly realized it wasn’t for me. After three stressful months, I was let go, and the stress had taken such a toll that I broke out in hives and ended up in the hospital.
Determined to find my true calling, I returned to college and earned a diploma in Business Administration, specializing in Human Resources. This field resonated with me, and I spent the next 20 years building a career in HR.
This is where Melanie comes in. 2013, everything changed. While browsing a home magazine, I came across a stunning mustard-yellow dresser painted with Miss Mustard Seed Milk Paint. I was inspired to recreate the look and discovered a store that carried the paint—Mango Reclaimed. The moment I stepped into Melanie’s studio, I felt at home. It was a small but incredibly inspiring space, and Melanie’s warm and helpful demeanour made it even more special. I took several classes there, and as Melanie’s business grew (she took over the very large unit next door to her), I began teaching workshops at her store. I can't even remember how many I taught. There were quite a few. Her new location was soo big and beautiful. Here we are at her studio before I am about to teach a workshop. This was probably in 2016 or 2017.
At the time I was also making signs to sell and refinishing furniture. This is a pop up that I did at her location.
I watched Melanie shine and create the most beautiful studio and atmosphere. It got my creative juices flowing like never before. After much research, and encouragement and blessings from Melanie, I opened The Lemonade Stand in Uxbridge in 2018.
We started as a small retail space with a workshop in the back, offering three paint lines, refinished furniture, and numerous workshops. However, COVID-19 forced us to pivot, and we have since transformed into a Home & Lifestyle store. While we no longer teach on-site workshops and now carry only one paint line, we proudly make all our own candles right in our studio.
Melanie has since moved on to new adventures, transitioning from running Mango Reclaimed to owning Mango Photography. She specializes in interiors, lifestyle brands, and product photography.
Melanie is someone I trust, which is just one of the reasons I asked her to do the photos for our new line of soy candles. She is a true professional, with a kind heart, a beautiful smile, and someone I have learned so much from. She is also someone I consider a true friend.
We have another new product launching shortly, and she will be taking the photos for that as well. Stay tuned for the launch in August!
So there you have it—the fulfillment of a promise I made to my father all those years ago. Although he wasn’t here to witness me opening my own store, I know he would be incredibly proud. And what if I had never walked into Melanie's beautiful studio? Life may have taken a different path for me. I am so happy to be where I am right now.