As the days begin to get shorter, cooler, and crisper here in Wheeling, many start looking for ways to embrace the looming autumnal season and all of the fun, cozy things that come with it. Particularly, the scents of the season.
In Centre Market, Jamie Ward McKenzie has taken the simple concept of a candle shop and turned it into an enchanting seasonal experience for locals and visitors alike. Stone Cottage Apothecary has experienced wonderful success at their new storefront, something which McKenzie has attributed partly to her ability to customers find the perfect scents to match each time of year. She has a certain flair for creating a brand that feels magical, intentional, and provides a full experience for shoppers. Through this, Stone Cottage Apothecary has amassed a following of customers willing to wait in lines that stretch down the block in anticipation of new products or special offers. It has become the place to go for those looking to romanticize the seasons and make daily life feel like a special occasion.
McKenzie began creating candles back in 2022 and quickly realized it was something she could do as a business. In the beginning, she did as many festivals, markets, and craft shows as she could. During that time, she grew her business and created a customer fanbase who loved her products and branding experience.
“I have always put the maximum amount of effort into how I display my products so I can create an experience for my customers,” McKenzie shared, “[I want my customers to] walk in and feel immersed in this romanticized whimsically seasonal experience. My shop is for people who want every day to feel special.”
“Our products are made for romanticizing the season. The little things that bring a special-ness to every day, ordinary moments,” she explained, noting that she wants to help customers make their homes and their lives feel special for all of the holidays and the different seasons. “I want people to walk in and think ‘wow this atmosphere is a dream.”
This mentality exists throughout the year, not just during the fall. This past springtime, when Stone Cottage Apothecary was decked out in pink blooms and florals, my 4 year old daughter said “wow this is a place for princesses.” Now, each time we stop in her store, I tell her we are going to the princess store.
Along with creating a magical experience, McKenzie prioritizes cleaner ingredients in all of her products. All of the candles are made with a natural blend of coconut, hemp, and soy waxes and only contain high quality, phthalate-free fragrance oils and wicks.
When you look at the long list of offerings, the moniker ‘Apothecary’ rings true. Along with their signature candles and wax melts, Stone Cottage Apothecary also offers perfumes, mop soap, room spray, lip balms, diffusers, and home goods. From hand lotions to body creams to oils, the shelves are stocked with items that smell as good as they will make your skin feel. This year, the autumnal line includes trending scent profiles such as Maple Milk, Autumn Reverie, Pumpkin Custard, Spun Sugar + Candy Apple, and also features returning favorites such as Marshmallow Brulée, Caramel Creme, Cognac + Spiced Praline, and Cozy Library.
It’s easy to see why Stone Cottage has grown so tremendously since their store opening and become a staple in so many of their customers’ lives. Be sure to check out Stone Cottage Apothecary in Centre Market and be on the lookout for upcoming seasonal and holiday products, events, and special offers!
Q&A
What is your favorite fall scent at Stone Cottage Apothecary?
“Pumpkin custard if I am wearing it. Sweet Potato Souffle if I am burning a candle.”
What do you love about Centre Market?
“Well it’s the cutest thing ever, first off. It’s one of the coolest things about Wheeling and it has stayed like that. I love how there is a close knit community of business owners here, especially all of the women business owners. When I knew I wanted to open a store front, it was Centre Market or nothing.”
Describe your perfect fall day:
“I especially love late September, early October when the weather finally starts to cool down. I enjoy putting on a cute fall outfit, wearing my fall scents, taking the kids to enjoy something seasonal- like a pumpkin patch or especially Oglebay fest weekend, having a meal in the crockpot, then cozying up at night with a glass of wine and a movie like Practical Magic and reading before bed.
Where to follow and shop:
Address: 2137 Market Street Wheeling, WV 26003
Instagram: @stonecottageapothecary
Facebook: Stone Cottage Apothecary
Website: https://www.thestonecottageapothecary.com
