Our Story
The family behind Lije
Hi, I’m Holly — a mom of two boys and the founder of Lije.
I’ve always loved the way a candle changes the feeling of a room. A glass of red wine with friends, bossa nova in the background. Something simmering in the kitchen. Game night with my family, a long bath, or a little romance when it’s just my husband and I.
For me, candlelight is an invitation to slow down and enjoy what’s right in front of me. In a world that moves so quickly, I believe we need more of that: more love, more connection, and more time for the moments that matter.
For a long time, I dreamed of making the candle I couldn’t quite find. Canadian grass-fed tallow, beautiful phthalate- and paraben-free fragrance, thoughtfully sourced materials, and a chic vessel that elevated my home. Something I loved looking at as much as I loved lighting.
As I became more intentional about what I bought, I wanted to bring that same care to something I created. Fewer, better things. Thought behind every detail, with as much care for our planet as possible.
The idea stayed with me while life took some unexpected turns.
Becoming a mother changed what I needed from my working life, but it didn’t change how much my career mattered to me. After years of building it, I felt I had to choose between being there for my family and continuing the work I loved.
I hoped a new role would give me room for both. But shortly after sharing that I was expecting my second son, I was let go. It was painful and uncertain, at a time when I had hoped to feel secure.
That experience made me think about the kind of business I wanted to build — one where care and kindness shaped the decisions. So I decided to give this little idea a real chance.
Today, we hand-pour every Lije candle to order in Toronto, giving an existing animal by-product new purpose and creating beautiful scents for the homes and moments you love.
Lije means “child” in Amharic. It holds my family close and reflects our commitment, as we grow, to helping children, babies and families in need.
Every order means so much to our family. Your support helps us create a kinder, cleaner, more intentional world — together.
Thank you for choosing Lije.
