Necessity is the mother of invention. It is this philosophy that ignited creative director Michelle Rust’s imagination and led to the creation of Okracandle. Co-founded with her partner, Erik, the bespoke candle brand launched five years ago, and has lit up intimate spaces and kindled memorable occasions ever since. This Women’s Month, we chat with Michelle Rust about sparking creativity, what candles can bring to the table, and the women who inspire her in work and life. Join the conversation.

What was the inspiration behind starting Okracandle?

In 2019, I faced a challenge while preparing for a TV shoot; I needed a specific type of candle that was unavailable in South Africa. This led Erik and me to purchase our first 3D printer, birthing Okracandle. Initially, it was a personal project, but the pandemic inspired us to share our creations nationwide. Following a close friend’s suggestion to start posting our creations on Instagram resulted in us having to start a website.

How does using a 3D printer play to your advantage?

This technology allows us to experiment with unique designs and materials, pushing the boundaries of traditional candle-making and enabling us to bring our creative visions to life. The physical candle is not 3D printed; the moulding process is aided by using our printers.

Besides being a creative director, you do event styling. How can luxury candles enhance environments?

Luxury candles add a touch of elegance and sophistication. They create a sensory experience that goes beyond visual appeal. When combined with a thoughtful event or home styling, candles can transform spaces and elevate the overall atmosphere.

How do you balance functionality and artistry in your designs?

We tend to ask our clients what their end goal is – either function over form or form over function. The reality is that not every shape will burn equally as well as another. We embrace a candle that has a dramatic drip, but not everyone does. With each candle, there is meticulous planning, material selection and rigorous testing to achieve the perfect harmony between form and function.

You have done some incredible collaborations and installations. What has been your favourite project to date?

Creating an immersive candle installation alongside Lana Fredericks from MYUZU for an art gallery, The Fourth Cape Town. The project required a blend of our mediums, wax and flowers, showcasing our ability to create bespoke pieces from two different worlds. It was a testament to our creativity and problem-solving skills, and the feedback we received was incredibly rewarding.

Gallery: The Fourth | Candle: Okracandle manufacturer of That Skinny Bitch Candle (used here). Michelle Rust and Lana Fredericks (from MYŪZU) were the hands behind this creation | Visuals: Aletta Francina

How has Okracandle evolved since it launched five years ago?

Okracandle has evolved from a personal project into a business with actual employees. We’ve expanded our product range, improved our production techniques, and established an online presence. We are still learning every day.

What has been the most rewarding aspect of this journey?

The ability to connect with our customers and see how our candles enhance their lives and spaces. Knowing that our creations bring joy and elegance to others is incredibly fulfilling.

How do you spark inspiration?

Inspiration often comes from everyday experiences, travel and art. Collaborating with Erik, who brings a scientific perspective, also sparks new ideas. (He designed my wedding ring around the DNA molecule, symbolising how we have intertwined as partners.) We draw from a diverse range of influences to create products and experiences that are both unique and meaningful.

What are three things you can’t live without?

Creative freedom: Having the ability to explore new ideas and push the boundaries of conventional design is essential for my personal and professional fulfilment.

Support from my partner, Erik (and our families): We are each other’s support systems; when we have a tight deadline, it’s him and I working together at 1 AM. This support system provides the strength and motivation needed to navigate business challenges. Our families’ encouragement and belief in our vision also play a crucial role in our success.

Open communication with other small business owners: Connecting with fellow entrepreneurs allows for exchanging ideas, advice, and experiences. It creates a sense of community and provides a network of support and collaboration.

It’s Women’s Month! Who are the women that inspire you?

Several women have inspired me throughout my journey, starting with my mother, who taught me the importance of perseverance. She sparked my love for candles; most evenings, after my parents returned home from their long and hard-working days, I would light all the candles in our living room with a match. Lighting a candle with a match takes me right back to those moments. My mother taught me to stay positive and never be negative. In her words: ‘Negatiwiteit lok negatiwiteit, wees positief.’

Jackie Burger is another remarkable woman who has influenced me. I will never forget the first time I was in her presence at her Salon 58 event in Stellenbosch. I was a waiter and ended up running through the streets trying to get a pot of rhubarb cooked. My second meeting with her was on set for a KykNet production. She wore a vibrant bright red dress and complimented my homemade chicken. Not only is she knowledgeable, but she also shows kindness to everyone, from waitstaff to crew members.

Lidewij Edelkoort, the Dutch trend forecaster, left a lasting impression on me at her 2018 Design Indaba talk. She opened my eyes to the issues of fast fashion and the significant impact we have on our planet.

What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs?

Running a business is not a joke; there are a lot of hidden surprises that pop up, especially when you start expanding. It’s crucial to surround yourself with supportive people who can offer guidance and encouragement.

Always remain open to learning and adapting as you navigate challenges and opportunities. Success often comes from persistence and the willingness to innovate, even in the face of setbacks. The best advice I got from my dad was to follow my gut and to remember, ‘If it was easy, everyone would be doing it.’ This mindset has helped me stay focused and determined during the toughest moments of building Okracandle.

Explore the Okracandle range at the website link below. 

okracandle.co.za | Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | Email