From Laguna to Pittsburgh: How a Brand Refresh Lit Our Way

There’s something profoundly comforting about the glow of a candle. It’s not just the flicker of light—it’s the memories it ignites, the warmth it carries, and the stories it tells. For The Hundredth Acre, a candle represents more than wax and a wick; it’s an invitation to relive simple moments, to rekindle memories that shaped us, and to find tranquility in a chaotic world. 

Today, I’m thrilled to share the story behind our brand refresh—a story that spans two coasts, embraces change, and stays rooted in the values that have always defined The Hundredth Acre. 

Why Refresh the Brand?

When I purchased The Hundredth Acre from Robert Brink in 2021, I was comfortably nestled in Laguna Beach, a place that feels as poetic as its name. Nestled along the California coastline, Laguna was more than home—it was a muse. The Hundredth Acre reflected this so effortlessly; it was the only candle brand poured and sold exclusively in Laguna Beach. Every flicker carried the salty air, the laid-back charm, and the sense of community that made this place so unforgettable. 

When I took over the business, I made small adjustments—just enough to make it my own while honoring Robert's original vision. The essence of the brand stayed intact, and soon, we found a niche, selling our unique candles at local stores and events. 

But life has a funny way of leading us toward change. After a rewarding 13 years in Laguna Beach, I was drawn back to Pittsburgh, my hometown, at the end of 2023. It was an emotional move, leaving behind the waves that had inspired so much of my story. But with this move came a new perspective—a chance to give The Hundredth Acre a fresh chapter while honoring the chapters that had come before. 

Lighting a New Path 

Through all the transitions, The Hundredth Acre remained close to my heart. It was a part of my last years in Laguna Beach, and with the help of a dear friend, I kept operations moving smoothly—even as I planned the cross-country move to Pittsburgh. 

When the dust settled, I knew it was time for a change. I wanted to reimagine what The Hundredth Acre could represent—a blend of nostalgia and new beginnings. Candles are more than just scented wax; they’re storytellers. They carry the scent of childhood summers, of snowy winter nights by the fire, of winds that whisper secrets only we can decode. This belief led to a core idea for the refresh—a marriage of scented candles and visual storytelling. 

A New Vision for The Hundredth Acre 

With the brand refresh, I set out to create candles that are more than functional pieces for your home. They’re sensory experiences, each tied to a vivid visual story—a moment in time that will spark a memory or inspire a feeling. 

Visual Storytelling Through Candle Design 

Every detail, from the name of the candle to its packaging, is meant to immerse you in a visual narrative. Whether it’s the earthy scent of cedar evoking hikes through the woods or a hint of vanilla that brings memories of baking cookies in Grandma’s kitchen, each candle tells a deeply personal story. 

We’ve also introduced touches that celebrate Pittsburgh’s character. It’s a city of transformation, resilience, and history—a fitting mirror to our brand’s evolution. Amid the rolling hills and steel bridges, our candles now carry the dual essence of Pacific serenity and Midwestern warmth. 

Rekindling Childhood Memories with Signature Scents 

Our refreshed line showcases scents chosen to rekindle moments of pure joy. Picture this:

• Push Pop –Juicy orange and warm vanilla evoke memories of ice cream, laughter, and endless summer days. This playful scent captures the sweetness of summer.

• Beachside Bliss –Capture the essence of a summer getaway to a coastal paradise. Sea salt, jasmine, and sweet cream bring back memories of sandcastles, relaxing under palm trees, or enjoying a favorite cocktail.

• Serenity – Let the fragrance of nag champa, rose, and lily of the valley bring peace and relaxation. Rose adds warmth and romance, while fresh lily adds a clean, invigorating touch. A simple way to create calm at home after a long day.

Each candle becomes its own memory capsule, so as you strike a match, you’re not just lighting a wick—you’re illuminating a moment. 

A Community of Candle Lovers 

While the refresh invigorates our product line and branding, one thing will always remain constant—the heart of The Hundredth Acre is its community. Our candles aren’t just for one-time customers; they’re for those who treasure the ritual of lighting them, day after day, season after season. 

We’re making it easier than ever for our community to engage with us. From sharing photos on social media to discussing favorite scents, I want to build a space where we can connect over the small joys that scented candles bring. You’ll also see exclusive offers and sneak peeks of upcoming collections, ensuring you’re always part of the story. 

Looking Ahead 

This brand refresh isn’t about turning away from the past—it’s about finding a way to celebrate it while stepping into the future. Laguna Beach will always be a part of The Hundredth Acre’s DNA, evoked in our scents and our ethos. And now, Pittsburgh provides a fresh foundation—a city with its own stories to tell. 

I’m so excited for what’s ahead and for the chance to share it with you, our candle family. Whether you’re drawn to us for our unique candles, our focus on visual storytelling, or our mission to help you savor small moments, thank you for being here. 

Come along as we light the way forward, one memory-filled candle at a time.