Interviewee:
Sarah Darmon (She/Her)
In your words… Tell us about your organization, business, initiative.
Apothecary 51 brings a little bit of magic into everyday life with a mix of crystals, scent, and intention. We are inspired by all things magical, mystical and yes, even spooky (because Halloween is a lifestyle, not just a holiday). We offer unique products that keep customers coming back for more.
We create custom blended luxury candle and gemstone intention mists to suit your every mood. Here at Apothecary 51, we believe scent is an experience and should be enjoyed without alcohol, emulsifiers and synthetic fragrances. We’re proud to produce products that are clean and safe for everyone.
We’re proud to partner with other small businesses on the Cape, collaborating to create custom scents that capture the essence of their business. Whether you’re looking for something unique, like a dirt scented candle (which awe created for a local garden center) or a traditional beach scent, we can create exactly what you’re looking for.
Tell us a bit about you and why you do what you do? Share your passions for your business, initiative, organization.
Hi! I’m Sarah, the owner and creator of Apothecary 51. Like many others, I found myself without a corporate job during the challenges of the COVID era. Searching for a creative outlet, my passion for Halloween sparked a unique idea: sophisticated, clean, year-round spooky candles, I questioned why the excitement of Halloween should be confined to just October.
Encouraged by my mother-in-law, a seasoned candle maker herself, I embarked on the journey to create my first collection in the fall of 2021. I started with small markets on Cape Cod, and initially, the customer base was not that receptive, but i knew i would find my people.
Fast forward two years, and Apothecary 51 has surpassed my wildest expectations. Our products now grace the shelves of numerous gift shops across Cape Cod and thanks to Etsy boast a nationwide customer base. Our year round top seller? October in Salem.
I always joke that Halloween isn’t a holiday; it’s a lifestyle, and the way our seasonal spooky candles have been received just proves the point. The enthusiasm and support from our customers highlight the shared passion for keeping the Halloween spirit alive year-round. To cater to an even broader audience, we’ve expanded our offerings to include more traditional seasonal candles. These creations are perfect for those who appreciate the quality of our products but may not be as devoted to the spooky lifestyle as we are.
And let’s not forget the annual Haunted Happenings marketplace in Salem, where customers eagerly return each year to procure their favorite candles and mists, solidifying Apothecary 51 as a staple in the heart of Halloween festivities. It’s been an incredible ride, and I can’t wait to see where the magic of Apothecary 51 takes us next!
What role do you think your business plays in supporting a more creative community? OR your community in general. (Bonus! Why do you think a more creative community is important?)
A pivotal aspect of our growth has been collaborating with local small businesses, working hand-in-hand to craft custom candles tailored to the unique needs of their shops. This collaborative spirit has not only enriched our product line but also strengthened our ties to the local community.
What was the last book you read OR What was the last video you watched that made an impact on you?
I’d like to say that I have one, but I have a 1 & 3 year old and don’t have time to really do either. Does Ms. Rachel count? lol
What’s the one thing people would be surprised to learn about you or your business?
Being a small business owner was never on my bingo card, it’s just something i fell into. We’re also still in our infancy, we’re only 2 years old, but it seems like i’ve been doing this forever (maybe in past life).
I very much believe in energy and magic and it is reflected in everything Apothecary 51 does. From oils and crystals, to the intention that goes into making everything.
Creative Collective is a group of economic development strategists, small business supporters, activation specialists, and believers in the importance of the creative workforce. We foster growth, sustainability, and scalability for small businesses, creative thinkers, organizations, entrepreneurs, and innovators. Learn more and join Creative Collective at www.creativecollectivema.com/join
Apothecary 51
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Apothecary 51 is inspired by all things magical, mystical and spooky. Our gemstone infused intention mists are designed to create an energetic adjustment, rather than a scent that will stick with you, Apothecary 51’s soy candles allow you to celebrate spooky season all year round and are created with clean fragrances and cotton wicks, which make them safe for kids
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