june creative crush: rachel from oil & wax

The creative world is full of talent, quirky style, and artists who never cease to amaze us. There are ladies who are spot on with innovative fashion, who write beautiful melodies, and whose paintings transport us to new places. We decided that we can't keep them all to ourselves. Each month, we'll feature our creative crush, a lady who inspires us with her work. 

For June, we want to introduce the creative genius behind Oil & Wax, Rachel Mueller.

1. Tell us a little bit about yourself.

I grew up in the midwest (Indianapolis), moved to Florida when I was a teenager and have been living and loving life in the South ever since. I got into technology and the web generally while I was in college and pursued a career in web design & development when I graduated. Thankfully, it only took me 3 years to realize I did not want to be doing that full-time for the rest of my life. I'm now the owner of Oil & Wax, a soy candle company I run from my home in West Nashville.

2. What inspired you to start your brand?

I'll admit that making candles is not something I dreamed of doing my entire life. In fact, I had no idea how much I would love it until I decided I wanted handmade favors for my wedding. My husband noticed how much I enjoyed making the favors, so he pushed me to list a few on Etsy as an experiment. Four months later my little hobby had grown into a small business that kept me busy during every spare hour I had. Support from family and friends gave me the courage to finally quit my office job and begin building Oil & Wax into a true company and brand, and I couldn't be more happy with that decision that today.

3. Favorite thing about what you do?

Finishing up and sending off orders (especially custom orders!) and working with my hands. There is nothing more gratifying than receiving a compliment on something you created with your bare hands.

4. Who or what are you most inspired by?

Simple, functional design. Natural light and color. People that aren't afraid to fail.

5. What is your favorite scent?

Lavender Cucumber Sage is my current favorite. Mediterranean Fig is a very close second, though.

6. If you could travel anywhere, where would you go?

There are a lot of places in Europe I'd like to visit, but if I had to choose one it would be Germany. Authentic food, beer, and the outdoors make me happy.

7. Favorite travel memory?

Snorkeling and catching lizards as a kid. My family used to go on a lot of Caribbean vacations, and I swear every second I wasn't snorkeling I spent chasing small reptiles!

8. You can only take 3 things with you on a trip - what do you take?

Cherry Chapstick, my camera, and my husband.

9. Anything exciting planned for the rest of 2013?

Yes :) I'm working with another local Nashville artist to create custom vessels and scents for a brand new line of candles.

10. Your favorite piece in the Mexico Collection?

The Adelaide Necklace in Lime/Red - love the bright, earthy colors and simplicity of the design.

Interested in learning more about Rachel? 

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