When you meet Reem, you might hear her introduce herself simply: “I’m Reem.” But mention candles, and she transforms—“Then I’m Reemi’s. Some even call me the candle lady,” she laughs. It’s a fitting title for someone whose wax creations have quietly lit up Kuwait’s artisan scene.

What started as a way to unwind from the intensity of a 14-year career in marketing has grown into something much more soulful. “I was craving a creative outlet—something tactile and grounding,” Reem explains. That longing took her back to her childhood, when arts and crafts were her world. Candle-making, once a hobby, found its way back to her hands—and heart.

Her transition from corporate to creative came with challenges. “Letting go of structure and control was the hardest part,” she shares. “In marketing, there’s a strategy, a brief, a defined path with measurable results. Candle-making is full of emotion and fluidity.”

That emotion is evident in each of her sculptural, non-toxic candles. Reemi’s creations aren’t just pretty objects—they’re stories in wax. “Some candles are born from excitement—trying a new shape or scent. Others are me processing something deeper,” she says. “They’re quiet expressions of moments in time.”

Those expressions are shaped by a mix of influences: art, nature, and the imperfection of everyday life. “I’m drawn to organic forms—soft, fluid, imperfect. I want each candle to speak to your senses and your feelings,” she says. Many of her designs are poured in molds made of Jesmonite, a non-toxic material that gives her candles a handcrafted concrete feel. Even the containers are part of her sustainable philosophy. “I keep packaging minimal and reusable. I pour in small batches to avoid waste. Every decision is guided by mindfulness.”

For Reem, clean ingredients are non-negotiable. “What we burn in our homes matters,” she explains. “I didn’t want to create something beautiful that compromises health. Soy wax, beeswax, and coconut wax are clean-burning. Each serves a purpose.”

Stepping into her studio—her “cute little space close to home”—you’d find a calming environment filled with scent, texture, and creativity. It’s an evolving space, fine-tuned to her process. “Currently, lighting is my issue,” she jokes. “But it’s my sanctuary. I designed it based on what I need to make candle-making joyful and productive.”

One of her most meaningful creations is a candle called A Party of Four—a sculpted piece featuring four abstract faces. “It reminds me of my mother,” she says, her voice softening. “She used to paint faces just like these. When I found the mold, I knew I had to make it. It’s a quiet tribute to her. And what’s beautiful is that it’s one of my bestsellers. I think people feel the emotion behind it, even if they don’t know the story.”

Reem taught herself the craft through books, online tutorials, and endless trial and error. “Candle-making takes a surprising amount of precision,” she notes. “You’re balancing temperature, fragrance ratios, the shape of the mold—it’s science and art. I learned to be patient. Some of the most beautiful pieces happen by mistake.”

While many small businesses chase growth through aggressive marketing, Reem has opted for a slower, more organic approach. “Consistency, authenticity, and quality—that’s what I focus on. Word of mouth has been huge. People connect with intention,” she says. She’s also built community through local markets, conversations, and resharing customer photos. “It’s not about going viral for a moment. I want to build something that lasts.”

And where is it all going? “I’d love to eventually open a studio space where people can come, create, or just chill. A place where you want to stop by to pick up a gift, make a candle, or hang out. That’s my dream,” she says, beaming.

Until then, Reem will keep crafting stories in wax, one mold at a time. Her advice to anyone hoping to turn a passion into a business? “Start small, but start. Don’t wait for perfection. Protect the joy that brought you to your passion—that’s your compass.”

As her candles flicker in homes across Kuwait, it’s clear that Reemi’s isn’t just about fragrance or form. It’s about feeling. And in each softly glowing flame, Reem is telling a story—one that smells like home, looks like art, and feels like peace.

TRUTH OR DARE

How would your mother describe you in one word?
Stubborn. (With love, of course!)

How would you describe your mother in one word?

 Loving

What is the most ridiculous question you’ve ever been asked?
 Can I eat this one?

What is the most spontaneous thing you’ve ever done?
Quit my 14-year career to start making candles from home. For those who know me, knew how much I enjoyed the corporate world. So it was a big shift.

What is your theme song?
“Dog Days Are Over” by Florence + The Machine. It’s chaotic, beautiful, and full of hope

What word in the English or Arabic language do you wish you had invented?
Definitely “yalla / يلا.” 

This word carries a whole attitude. Whether it’s yalla bye, yalla let’s make it happen, or yalla now now; it’s flexible, efficient and straight to the point. It feels like a universal shortcut to express excitement, impatience, encouragement… all in two syllables. Its perfect! 

Where would you like to live? What is your dream retirement location?
At the moment, somewhere in Italy. Anywhere along the coastline of the Adriatic sea. The simple life.

What is the first famous quote that comes to your mind?
No one has ever become poor by giving. – Anne Frank

Do you miss anything from your childhood and if so, what is it?
No stress – no worry – no responsibility

If you could change your name, to what would you change it?
I wouldn’t. 

How would you describe your handshake, in one word?
Refined.

What is the toughest part of your character?
I question everything

What do you think is lacking in the world, which [if there were more of it] would make the world a better place?
Stillness. We’re all rushing so much we forget how to feel.

Why do you think most people who do, like you?
Because I tell it as it is.

Finish this sentence: “Happiness is…”
…in the little things. 🤍

Follow Reem’s candle adventures @reemistudio on Instagram.