Meet Ashley Paris-Alderson | Owner

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ashley Paris-Alderson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ashley, can you talk to us a bit about the social impact of your business?
At Mixology Candle Bar, we strive to create more than just candles. We create experiences that bring people together. Our business gives people a space to connect, celebrate, relax, and express their creativity in a welcoming environment.

We love being a part of special moments in our guests’ lives, whether it’s birthdays, date nights, team-building events, girls’ nights, or simply giving someone a creative outlet and a break from the stress of everyday life. We believe experiences and human connection are important, and we’re proud to provide a space where memories are made.

We also support our local community by creating jobs, collaborating with other local businesses, and bringing foot traffic into the area. As a small business, it’s important to us to contribute positively to the community that continues to support us.

Our goal has always been to create an atmosphere where everyone feels welcome, inspired, and leaves happier than when they walked in.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
My journey professionally has definitely not been traditional, and it certainly wasn’t easy, but I truly believe every challenge helped shape both me and the brand into what it is today. Before opening Mixology Candle Bar, I spent over 20 years in the oil and gas industry. While I was grateful for that career and everything it taught me, I knew deep down that I wanted to create something more meaningful and community driven. Something that brought people together in a positive way.

Faith played a huge role in that decision and in this entire journey. There was actually a moment during a church candlelight service where the message was about spreading light, love, and kindness and “being the light.” That moment really stayed with me, and I looked at my husband and said, “We’re doing this.” From that point forward, so many things fell into place in ways I can only describe as God opening doors and guiding the path for us.

What sets Mixology Candle Bar apart is that we focus on creating experiences, not just products. I wanted to build a place where people could disconnect from stress, reconnect with each other, celebrate special moments, and express creativity in a welcoming environment. Whether it’s a birthday, date night, girls’ night, corporate event, or someone simply walking in because they need a mental reset. We want every guest to leave feeling happier than when they arrived. Our slogan “Be The Light” has really become the heart of our brand.

The road to building this business definitely came with challenges. Starting over in a completely different industry was intimidating. Like most entrepreneurs, I had moments of uncertainty, exhaustion, financial stress, and learning things the hard way. There were many nights of figuring things out as I went, wearing every hat possible, and pushing through fear even when I didn’t have all the answers. But I’ve learned that growth happens outside of your comfort zone, and sometimes you just have to trust your vision and keep moving forward.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that consistency, authenticity, and genuinely caring about people matter more than perfection. I’ve also learned the importance of community and asking for help. Organizations like the SBDC were incredibly helpful in giving me guidance during the early stages of building Mixology Candle Bar, and I’m very grateful for that support.

What I want people to know about me and my brand is that Mixology Candle Bar was built with heart, faith, and purpose. Every detail of the experience matters to me because I know people are trusting us with their celebrations, memories, and time. My goal has always been to create a business that brings light into people’s lives even if it’s just for an hour while they’re pouring a candle and making memories with the people they love.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Honestly, I’m a bit of a homebody, so if my best friend came to visit, a lot of our time would probably be spent relaxing at my pool, catching up, and just enjoying quality time together. I love a good balance between getting out and enjoying the city while also having time to slow down and actually enjoy each other’s company.

Of course, we would definitely have to do some shopping because that’s one of my favorite things to do, especially around Houston/ The Woodlands since there are so many great spots to explore. We would for sure have to go to North Italia because it’s one of my favorite restaurants. The food, atmosphere, and cocktails are always amazing, and it’s one of my go-to places when friends or family are in town.

Of course we’d visit Mixology Candle Bar because creating experiences and memories together is something I genuinely love. It’s fun, creative, and gives people a chance to slow down and craft something truly unique.

I think what makes Houston so special is that there’s something for everyone. You can have a fun night out, discover amazing food from almost any culture, spend the day shopping, or just relax and enjoy good company. At this point in my life, I really value experiences that feel meaningful and peaceful more than anything overly busy or extravagant.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Absolutely, I would like to give a HUGE shoutout to my husband. Throughout this entire journey, he has been my biggest supporter, partner, and sounding board. Building a business comes with a lot of long days, stress, uncertainty, and sacrifice, and he has been there through all of it.

Whether it’s helping with inventory, stepping in to run events or the store when needed, or simply being there emotionally during the highs and lows, he has always shown up for me and for this business without hesitation. Having someone who believes in your vision even on the hard days makes all the difference, and I truly could not have built Mixology Candle Bar without his constant support, encouragement, and partnership.

Website: https://www.mixologycandlebar.com

Instagram: https://instagram.com/stories/mixologycandlebar/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mixologycandlebar/