Celebrating 10 Years

Written By richard taylor

A Beautiful Journey - From Forest Roots
to Gloucester High Street

Candles were where it all began…

A simple love for beautiful scents, soft flickering light and the joy of creating atmosphere sparked a dream - a dream of owning my own gift shop. The Candle Tree began in June 2015, when I opened a small shop at a craft centre in the Forest of Dean. With the help and support of my wonderful family - that little dream became an everyday reality. I enjoyed a full and thriving 2 years based here whilst building the shops stock and getting to understand my customer base.

The business evolved and in 2017 I took a leap of faith and opened a shop on the high street in Gloucester next to the beautiful Cathedral, a huge tourist attraction. Like any real journey, over the last 8 years there has been many highs and a few lows. Every day brought something different - whether it was helping someone find the perfect gift, unpacking boxes filled with new scents and treasures, or simply sharing a chat with a regular customer. The Candle Tree has became synonymous with unique hand crafted candles, delightful home fragrance, gorgeous toiletries, luxury nightwear and an eclectic range of gifts for all.

Highlights during the last 10 years include:

  • The smell of fresh soap deliveries from France

  • Partnering with brilliant suppliers and searching for new ones

  • Choosing new seasonal candles and exquisite home fragrance

  • Curating thoughtful gifts people were excited to give

  • Creating a welcoming magical space (especially at Christmas)

  • Watching people enjoying the shop space and stock

  • Meeting so many wonderful friendly customers

  • Working alongside amazing staff - thank you

  • Being part of a fantastic local community of supportive neighbours

  • Visiting beautifully inspiring trade shows

  • Winning Best Christmas Window in our first year in Gloucester (and a few other lovely awards!)

  • Most of all, enjoying the privilege of being my own boss!

To everyone who’s been part of this journey - thank you from the bottom of my heart. Every kind word, every purchase, every smile along the way has meant the world. From beginning to end, it’s been an amazing experience, a journey I’ve loved every step of the way. From that first candle that lit the way - here’s to keeping the flame burning for many years to come.

richard taylor
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