Last week, I announced big changes to Malicious Women Candle Co. I did it with my full chest, fully believing I had found the right partner to take us to the next level. I thought they cared about our mission and this community as much as I do.

I was wrong.

I ignored red flags because I wanted the deal to work so badly. This year has kicked my ass financially. The cost of literally existing keeps rising. When I found this manufacturer, they sounded perfect. We had multiple phone calls. Saida and I even flew to Arizona to see the operation in person. It looked amazing. I poured their coconut apricot wax, and I was impressed. Smooth texture. Strong scent throw. It passed my tests.

I poured those samples using my scent ratios. And if you know me, you know I don’t make weak-ass candles. I was assured they would match my specs. I was told they’d use my packaging and inserts so nothing would disrupt the brand.

Then the red flags turned into full-blown flares.

Communication slowed. Excuses started piling up. My gut was screaming, but I signed the contract anyway.

Once the ink was dry, everything changed. They raised the shipping prices we had already agreed on. They went radio silent. When they did respond, they were rude and dismissive. On launch day, they were either “out sick” or “on vacation,” depending on which excuse you believe. And the candles? They hadn’t even poured them yet.

We were told they could ship in 1 to 2 days, maybe 3 max. Suddenly it was 3 to 4 days. For reference, we ship same day if you order by noon. Then they tried to charge $23.96 to ship four candles. I’m sorry, what? We ship four candles for $6 to $9.

That was the final straw.

I ended the contract that Monday afternoon. It was a material breach. End of story.

My team (James, Winter, Ciera, Alex, and Kayla) rallied and rebuilt the website in hours. We got back up and running like the absolute badasses they are.

So here’s the new plan.

We’re not outsourcing again. No one cares about these candles more than I do, and I won’t hand them off to people who don’t give a damn about you or this brand.

We’re going back to 100% organic soy wax. Yes, the soy market is shaky right now, but I’d rather bet on that than throw more time, money, and trust at the wrong people.

And I didn’t forget what you were most excited about. The scent library. I’ve already partnered with a new fragrance supplier, and we’re launching 15 brand-new scents. These aren’t basic. They’re complex, bold, layered, and completely non-toxic. Still phthalate-free. Still everything you expect from us.

The new scents are about 2 to 3 weeks out. Until then, we’re still selling our current inventory. When it’s gone, it’s gone.

I can’t promise I’ll never screw up again. I’m human. But I can promise I’ll always tell you the truth even when it’s messy, unflattering, and really damn embarrassing.

This company started with me, hand-pouring candles at my kitchen counter in honor of my best friend Laura. And I’m keeping that spirit alive. She would be livid if she saw what happened. But she’d also remind me that we don’t quit.  It’s been one hell of a week and we couldn’t have survived this without my amazing team and hard work. 

We survived 2023 when I thought I’d have to close the doors. We’ll survive this. I’m not going anywhere. I’m here. I’m loud. I’m honest. And I’m staying Malicious.

(Until I get arrested for my political views. Obviously.)

Lacie