LOCAL: Brands, Businesses + Entrepreneurs | #25 | Truelux Candles
Kitsap is full of incredible brands, businesses, and entrepreneurs who make LIVING in Kitsap a fun adventure.
Truelux Candles
Gene Reyes, Owner
Website | Facebook | Instagram
A small business that launched out of Poulsbo, WA, Truelux Candles is a distinctive blend of natural butters and oils that burn only two degrees above body temperature. Simply dip your finger in the melted candle and work it into your skin as a lotion! Gene and family now split time between the Kitsap Peninsula and Texas, branching out into new markets across the nation with the support of their Poulsbo ties. You’ll find Truelux Candles in almost every downtown area of the Kitsap Peninsula.
About Gene
What was your first job?
“Summer job when I was 13 at Mesa Engineering. Making temperature control modules for the General Dynamics F-16.”
Where do you draw inspiration/creativity in your life?
“Hard choice. Everywhere is true, but too vague to be interesting. Music of the 70's and 80's. Lighting from everywhere. Lighting. Neon. 80's Electronics. 90's automotive design. Music videos made by people that give a shit and are possibly on mushrooms.”
About Truelux Candles
How did the idea of starting Truelux Candles begin?
“I've always been driven to have a business and find fire very romantic. Candles are just mood-setters. I'm sensitive to light and have a complete need to always be inside of a beautiful environment.”
Photos by @joekuneshphotography
The Genesis
Tell us the story of how Truelux Candles came to fruition.
“The fireplace was on, power was dropping in and out. It was a flood watch. It was raining feet of water. Old notebook and a fresh click pen going off with drawings and names. Mom was there. She is so supportive. We split a pizza. I actually started making them in her garage.”
The Drive
Tell us what/who drives you to keep working hard towards your goals.
“Family vacations around the globe and a fresh old Benz. The thrill of exploring new places with the people I love the most and who love me. I want to give us all the most vibrant and memorable life possible. It's also nice to scoot around in an 80's Merc but the maintenance and time they eat are ridiculous.”
Love Kitsap
Tell us your fave local drink spot - coffee, tea, wine, tequila, whatever!
“Coffee at Viking Brew in Poulsbo. Una doppio very light ice with a sparkling chase on the side.”
Tell us your fave local spot for a comfort meal - what do you always order?
“Sogno De Vino. I ask for that Pepperrizzi Pizzie and out comes the best pepperoni pie on the peninsula.”
Live Kitsap
Out-of-town guests are coming for the weekend. What is the most important thing you share with them about the Kitsap Peninsula? Where do you absolutely have to take them?
“Hansville has incredible beaches including Point No Point, hiking trails in Kingston and Hansville are a must. Just being in Poulsbo and getting a fire going outside.”
Photo by @joekuneshphotography
Thrive in Kitsap
Where are your favorite places to get outside? What do you do when you go?
“Poulsbo, Kingston, Hansville. Just get out in the trees or somewhere with sand. Make a fire if it's legal and safe. Do a little art project in the wild.”
Shop Truelux online or visit a local store near you in Poulsbo (Crimson Cove + Nordiska), Bainbridge Island (BIMA), or Gig Harbor (Treasures 4 Humanity).
our connections + friendships with local brands, businesses + entrepreneurs is something that makes living in kitsap truly unique. we aren’t just supporting a business, we’re building relationships.
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