Can you share with me how you got started?
It was 1992. My husband, Joe, was facing a layoff and he was not sure what he wanted to do. Instead of interviewing in the job market, Joe spent his extra time in the public library gathering information about candle making and material suppliers. After eight months of research and testing, he sold his first candle under the brand name "Pilgrim Candle." Our first factory and gift shop were a rental in The Mill at Crane Pond. Then in 1995, we bought a beautiful historic building on 36 Union Ave where we expanded our factory and retail store. Over the years, we expanded further; we had a store in South Hadley, a candle store in Chicopee, and our Store Next Door at 16 Union Ave, Westfield, another gorgeous historic property once known as Hotel Bismarck, built in 1900. Over the years the Bismarck has provided opportunities for many seasoned and startup businesses including a photographer, massage therapist, art and dance studios to name a few who occupy our suites.
As a result of the bridge construction and diminishing economy in the earlier 2000s, we decided to consolidate our stores to the Bismarck Building.
Fast forward twelve years, and we are back in our original space in the Pilgrim Candle building at 36 Union Ave and customers are pleased. We look forward to celebrating 29 years of candle making in Westfield and look forward to this time as a reinvention of sorts.
Talk to me about what that means?
When you are in business for a long period of time, you must make several changes and modifications along the way. So, moving forward, we need to consider the current shopping habits and economic changes when planning. Offering customers new products is a good start. Our candle manufacturing business has been buzzing with newer private label projects, while supplying my store and other retailers with Pilgrim Candles.
Why should people visit?
Customers should visit Pilgrim Candle to find high quality scented candles, unique gifts and most importantly, I want our customers to experience a shopping destination where you can touch, smell, feel and hear before purchasing. A place where you are greeted with a kind voice and smile (under our masks).
What can we expect from Pilgrim Candle going forward?
We are excited to showcase new Seasonal fragrances and the expansion of our home décor and fashion boutique. Fabulous gifts are arriving daily with a focus on the experience of being at home offering specialty foods, fun kitchen gadgets, and the kind of cozy fashion you can wear in or out!
Is there anything else that you would like the community to know about Pilgrim Candle?
I have a new vision moving forward as I reopen and get settled in. I want to revisit the days of old, in current times. The idea is to remind people how special it is to shop small and local businesses as in years past.
Side bar:
Owners Joe and Donna Shibley balance the retail and manufacturing business of Pilgrim Candle, and Donna’s profession as a Realtor, all while prioritizing their two children Mia 13 and Paul 18.
Donna's Favorite Things: