Stone Cottage Apothecary is known not only for its thoughtfully crafted products, but also for the calm, homey atmosphere that greets customers as soon as they walk through the door. Every item is curated by owner Jamie Ward, whose sleek, simple branding has become instantly recognizable throughout the community.
Stone Cottage Apothecary began humbly in Ward’s kitchen, where she first learned to make candles using vintage Ball jars. What started as a simple craft project quickly grew into something more. After three years of operating out of her home, Ward realized she had the foundation for a business.
“I had known that I wanted to have a business for myself. I just wasn’t sure what it was going to be,” she said. “It all kind of came together pretty quickly once I started experimenting.”
A Dream Realized at Centre Market
Just four months ago, on Small Business Saturday, Jamie opened the doors to a new location at Centre Market—a move she describes as a dream come true. The opportunity came shortly after Oglebay Festival, and from that moment on, she poured everything she had into making it happen.
“I just worked my butt off. I was going insane,” she said. “But I did it. When I pulled up and there was a line of people down the block waiting to get in that morning, I was just floored.”
As her business evolved, Jamie became intentional about the ingredients she used, focusing on cleaner, more conscious formulations. Guided by her motto, “cleaner scents for a cozier home,” she creates products she feels confident using in her own space.
It’s on everyone’s radar now. Maybe it wasn’t five or ten years ago, but today people really want to know what’s in the products they’re bringing into their homes.
Resilience, Creativity, and What’s Next
In addition to running her business, Jamie is a mother of two and has maintained a personal blog for more than 13 years. She handles nearly every aspect of the brand herself—from photography and website design to packaging.
“Most days I’m just running around like a chicken with my head cut off,” she said. “But I show up anyway.”
The past year has not been without challenges. In January, a machine malfunction in her 100-year-old home caused a fire, forcing Jamie to rebuild both her space and her business. Despite the setback, she remained committed, using the experience as motivation to keep moving forward.
“We’re back every single day—even on days we’re not open,” she shared. “I’m back there making products. I’ve got a ton of wholesale orders I’m working on right now.”
Jamie is constantly experimenting with new scent combinations and is currently developing a summer collection inspired by nostalgia and childhood memories.“What I’m excited about right now is nostalgic summer vibes,” she said. “Going back to those memories everyone has and trying to capture that feeling.”
Through each collection, Ward tells a story—blending scent, memory, and design into products that feel both personal and intentional.
Visit Stone Cottage Apothecary
Stop by the new location at 2137 Market St, Wheeling, WV 26003, and experience it for yourself. Whether you are searching for a signature candle or a new favorite fragrance, each product is crafted with care and a deep sense of purpose. You can also shop online at thestonecottageapothecary.com
Hours:
Wednesday–Friday: 11 AM–6 PM
Saturday: 11 AM–5 PM
Sunday: 12 PM–4 PM
Monday & Tuesday: Closed
