Two of our team members of Social Enterprise NI were delighted to be invited to the launch of one of our members, Accorn’s new candle collection inspired by Northern Ireland. We were thrilled to meet some of the bolster buddies behind each of the hand-poured candles.
The launch celebration took place at The Whistledown Hotel on Thursday, August 1st, and was attended by Deputy Chairperson of Newry, Mourne, and Down District Council, Cllr David Lee-Surginor, and Tracey Mooney, Product Development and Trade Engagement Officer (Enterprise, Regeneration, and Tourism Department NMD District Council).
The new candles, like the rest of the Acorn range, are crafted by Bolster Buddies and support staff. This initiative provides meaningful opportunities for young adults of mixed abilities, helping them achieve personal goals, develop friendships, and acquire new skills. Profits from the candles support Bolster Community’s essential work.
Jacinta Linden, CEO of Bolster Community, expressed pride in the new candle range, highlighting that the candles not only feature artwork depicting The Mournes, Slieve Gullion, Carlingford Peninsula, and Strangford Lough but also embody the organization’s mission of inclusivity, opportunity, and wellbeing.
The ‘Scents of Home’ collection includes four unique scents: ‘Mourne Echoes’, ‘Gullion Breeze’, ‘Strangford Sails’, and ‘Carlingford Whispers’, with each candle featuring exclusive artwork by young artist Majukooo from Kilkeel.
Deputy Chairperson Cllr David Lee-Surginor praised the candles, noting their connection to the region’s natural and cultural heritage, and their alignment with the community’s goals of sustainability and local craftsmanship.
Bolster Community hopes the ‘Scents of Home’ collection will resonate with local supporters and the global diaspora. The candles will be available for purchase online through the Acorn website (www.acornshop.co.uk) and in-store at Bolster Community starting Friday, August 2nd. Gift sets are also available for personal and corporate gifting.
Each candle purchase supports Bolster Community‘s vital services and programs, ensuring continued support for the community.