A new venture has brought a distinctive creative experience to St Helens town centre. Maison de Lumiere, launched by mum-of-two Mihaela Luca, combines handmade candle sales with workshops and private events. The Ormskirk Street business offers customers the chance to explore candle-making while enjoying an activity designed to promote relaxation and wellbeing.
Key takeaways
Maison de Lumiere offers:
- Handmade candles, including floral designs and personalised pet candles.
- Candle-making workshops and creative events.
- Private celebrations, including birthdays and hen parties.
- A welcoming town-centre space focused on creativity and relaxation.
The new business gives people an opportunity to make something by hand, as well as purchase distinctive decorative candles.
From hobby to town-centre business
Luca began making candles around a year before opening Maison de Lumiere. She was inspired by a cousin in Romania and developed her skills through experimentation and practice before deciding to turn her interest into a business.
The opportunity to take on a shop in St Helens came when Luca spotted an advert online. She felt the premises suited her plans, particularly because it could accommodate workshops and other group activities alongside the retail side of the venture.
Specialising in personalised designs
Maison de Lumiere’s range includes floral candle arrangements and hand-painted pet candles. The latter are created to resemble customers’ much-loved animals, giving the products a personal quality that goes beyond traditional home fragrance or decorative candles.
The designs are intended to appeal both to people looking for unusual gifts and to customers who want a meaningful keepsake representing a beloved pet.
Workshops aimed at wellbeing
Alongside selling candles, the business provides hands-on sessions where visitors can learn about the craft and create their own pieces. Luca, who is also a registered nurse, says she finds candle-making calming and believes creative activities can support mental wellbeing.
The workshops are designed as a chance to slow down, try something new and enjoy a shared experience. They also help make the town-centre venue suitable for groups seeking an alternative social activity.
Events for groups and celebrations
The new premises can host a variety of occasions, including private birthday parties and hen celebrations. These events combine a practical creative activity with time for guests to socialise, offering a different format from more conventional party venues.
For St Helens, the arrival of Maison de Lumiere adds another independent business to the town centre and introduces a service built around making, personalisation and experience. The venture’s mix of retail, workshops and events is intended to attract both individual visitors and organised groups.
Sources
- Mum-of-two launches candle making business in St Helens town centre, St Helens Star.
