Check Her Out: Kate Fey of Manitou Candle Co.

What exactly is your business? 

Manitou is a creative, hand-poured experience located inside a historic bank in Cincinnati’s Columbia-Tusculum district. Manitou focuses on making classic candles with a contemporary perspective — combining incredible scents and a Mid-Century space into something much more than a 70-hour burn. Our backroom serves as a Candle Workshop — a place where people can come together and experience a 2-hour educational class centered around learning, creating and gathering around the flame. With 100 hand-poured and hand-stamped American wax, soy candles, you’ll find something to ignite your senses.

How did you come up with your business idea?

I realized my love for candles was much more than just a passion when I made candles for all of my guests at my wedding and they kept asking for more afterward! Plus, I love getting together with girlfriends and thought it would be fun to combine the two and offer candle making parties.

What is your inspiration?

My family, friends and coworkers.

What has been your biggest accomplishment with your business so far?

Surviving the first year of business and surpassing first year goals!

What was the most valuable thing you gained from your experience with Aviatra?

Knowledge from many different people and new friends

What was the biggest challenge you faced when starting your business?

Taking the leap to start was the hardest part. I had this idea for years but it took me awhile to get the courage to do it!

Where do you hope to be in 5 years?

Hopefully working at and growing Manitou.

Any advice for future Aviatras?

To your research and reach out to whomever you can for advice. Be prepared and then take the leap!