Chic Spotlight: Starry Eyes Candles

Stephanie Cleary, Owner of Starry Eyes Candles, Geekery and Crafts

Cincy Chic: Tell us the story about how you started Starry Eyes and when you opened!
Stephanie Cleary, Owner of Starry Eyes Candles, Geekery and Crafts: I started making candles because when my mom fist opened her cupcake and craft store A Sweet Life, she was doing both. And when the cupcakes started taking off she thought it would be something easy and fun for me. Of course, me being me, I took it on full force and made it my own. I’ve been making candles for almost six years now.

Cincy Chic: What makes your products unique?
Cleary: I use 100 percent soy wax flakes and cotton wicks in my candles, this makes them clean burning and they also burn at a lower temperature so you can actually stick your finger in the wax after you blow it out without burning the tip of your finger. Not only are the candles good for the environment but they are also hand-poured with love in my kitchen, each candle is made by hand by me every time.

Cincy Chic: What are some of your most favorite scents as well as the most popular?
Cleary: I’ve never heard anyone say they don’t like pomegranate – but I may be partial because it’s my favorite! I made a wide range of smells ranging from maple syrup to coconut pineapple. Yes, I event make some Mandles, like bacon, fresh cut grass and even leather. Some other favorites include strawberry, candy corn, vineyard and sugar cookie.

Cincy Chic: Can you give us price points for your candles?
Cleary: The candles are $6 each.

Cincy Chic: Is there anything new on the horizon for Starry Eyes?
Cleary: I’m starting to move into making Scentsy-style tarts, regular flower tarts and votives. I’ve also added a new section to my brand that is Geek-themed jewelry. Currently, I make potion bottle necklaces and cufflinks but plan to add post earrings and bookmarks soon.

Pick up a bacon-scented candle from Starry Eyes.

Cincy Chic: We also know you have a great deal of involvement in helping those who suffer from alopecia. Can you tell us about any events you’re working on?
Cleary: Currently, I’m raising money to help research for a cure and treatment by selling rubber bracelets in either purple or teal for $3 each. I’m also selling a special candle called Chardonnary for $7 and 100 percent of the price of the candle is donated to the charity. So far I’ve been able to raise $300 and once I reach $500 I’ll donate the money directly to the charity. Events on the horizon for alopecia are small charity events at local shops to help raise money and offer prizes for tickets.

Cincy Chic: Where can readers go to learn more or purchase your products?
Cleary: I’ve got multiple options for readers to choose from. You can visit the Starry Eyes website, “like” us on Facebook or purchase our products on Etsy. You can also visit the store A Sweet Life on Colerain Avenue by HHGregg and Outback to pick up the candles yourself.