Behind Maison Chandèl: Katy Wolf
The Founder
Born in Haiti, Katy is an entrepreneur who's journey has been shaped by the rhythms of the Caribbean, the allure of distant lands, and the legacy of her ancestors. Katy's childhood was a tapestry of cultures—a mosaic of languages, traditions, and customs that ignited her passion for exploration and discovery.
Drawing inspiration from her Haitian roots and her global adventures, Katy chose to incorporate the coat of arms of King Henry Christophe of Haiti into Maison Chandèl's logo—a symbol of nobility, strength, unity, and the indomitable will of a nation. Like the phoenix rising from the ashes, the emblem of King Henry Christophe represents the beauty of the Haitian people, their unwavering resolve in the face of adversity, and their timeless quest for freedom. 'Je renais de mes cendres,' encapsulates the spirit of our brand.
"Maison Chandèl is more than just a candle company—it's a celebration of my heritage, a tribute to tradition, and a testament to the power of the human spirit." Katy Wolf.
Born from the experiences of our founder who has a thirst for adventure and a love for perfumery—our candles are a reflection of her global journey. From the bustling streets of London where she was once a student, to the romantic allure of Paris, the vibrant life of Port-au-Prince to the electric energy of New York City, each destination has left an indelible mark on her soul and inspired the scents that fill our candles.
Behind the logo
King Henry Christophe
Once upon a time, in the rich tapestry of Haitian history, there existed a figure whose legacy transcended time—the visionary King Henry Christophe. Born Henri Christophe, He was born on October 6, 1767, in Grenada. Christophe played a significant role in the successful slave uprising against French colonial rule in Saint-Domingue, which ultimately led to the establishment of Haiti as the first independent black republic in the Western Hemisphere.
Amidst the tumultuous landscape of revolution and rebirth, King Henry Christophe emerged as a symbol of resilience, strength, and enlightenment. Christophe declared himself King Henry I of Haiti in 1811, ruling over the northern part of the country. He established a monarchy and implemented various reforms aimed at stabilizing the nation and promoting its economic development.
King Henry Christophe undertook ambitious construction projects, including the Citadelle Laferrière and the Sans-Souci Palace, which are now UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Legend has it that the King, chose the phoenix as the centerpiece of his coat of arms—a symbol of his unwavering commitment to transformation and enlightenment. In the face of adversity, he saw not defeat but the promise of new beginnings, rising from the ashes like the mythical bird that graced his emblem.
Behind the logo
The Phoenix in The Coat of Arms
Right in the center of the coat of arms, you find the majestic phoenix; its wings outstretched as a symbol of rebirth and renewal. Surrounding the phoenix in the coat of arms were other elements rich in meaning—a crown, a sword, a laurel wreath and two lions of Judah—all signifying sovereignty, valor, and triumph.
Throughout the ages, the phoenix has captured the imagination of storytellers, poets, and dreamers alike. It is a symbol of hope in times of darkness, a reminder that even in the face of adversity, there is always the promise of new beginnings.
And so, as the phoenix takes flight once more, let us be inspired by its story—a story of courage, of transformation, and of the enduring power of hope.
The Maison Chandèl logo draws inspiration from the coat of arms of King Henry Christophe of Haiti, featuring the phoenix – a timeless symbol of rebirth and strength – and the emblematic phrase "Je renais de mes cendres" which translates to "I will rise of my ashes."