A New Candle Studio is Opening in Rhode Island

A New Candle Studio is Opening in Rhode Island

Maria Grace Furtado knows candle-making.

The Portugal-born, Bristol-raised Furtado has worn a number of hats throughout her career, from real estate and house-flipping to recently working as a baker in Provincetown.

Furtado is now returning to her roots with “Gracie’s Candles” opening in Portsmouth on March 2, at 1676 East Main Road. 

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“It’s ‘better than a book club,’” laughed Furtado, of her plan to host candle-making events for groups in her new studio in addition to crafting her own creations. 

 

Path Back to Candles

Years ago, Furtado, who had been an executive with Marriott in Boston, decided she wanted to leave the corporate world and “make stuff” instead. 

Furtado and her wife at the time had moved up to Gloucester on the North Shore, and the couple drove out to the midwest so Furtado could learn to make candles from a master candle-maker.

Back east, Furtado launched her first candle business, “Paris Market Candles."

For Furtado, however, doing wholesale was the “kiss of death” — and she ultimately opted to sell the company, a decision she said she is still “kicking herself” over to this day.

“It’s always been in the back of my mind,” said Furtado, who had then run a mosaic studio in Bristol for a period of time.  “There’s always room for really good candles.”

So “Gracie’s Candles” was born, and Furtado envisions a warm, welcoming space for people to learn how to make candles — and relax.

“It’s a place where you can come with your friends, and make a candle for yourself or a gift,” said Furtado. 

According to Furtado, candles can be made with fragrance or without. “You really don't want fragrant candles with food,” said Furtado. 

In addition to classes, Furtado plans to host an open house each Saturday — and hopes to break into the wedding industry. 

“A lot of brides just order candles from other countries,” she said. “I’m offering a high-quality, local product.” 

Furtado is now gearing up for the grand opening on March 2. 

"I’m a little terrified, but it’s all good — it’s exactly what I wanted it to be,” said Furtado.

You can follow “Gracies Candles” on social media here.