Stalybridge’s Bluebird Candles burning brightly as it celebrates three years

THE CANDLES are more than ready to mark three years for one Stalybridge business – because that is what Bluebird does brilliantly.

And the support of both the people of the town and other business owners has proved crucial.

After starting off as a hobby to relieve stress while struggling with lasting effects of Covid-19, Carol Hill has grown her brand.

Now she is preparing to celebrate three years on Melbourne Street – during which she has established herself as part of the community – by opening the prosecco on September 26.

That backing has proved as important as anything else as she said after committing to at least another three: “I don’t want to not stay.

“It’s Stalybridge, it’s a nice town with some good people in it. And people are very loyal to it – all the shops support each other too.

“Stalybridge has certainly changed. If people want to come into Stalybridge, they’ll come into Stalybridge and I’m finding they’re very loyal, especially with them other shops in the area too.

“It’s been a good three years. It’ll be a good three years to come.”

Former nursing home cleaner Carol says contracting Covid-19 pushed her into following her dreams and creating Bluebird Candles.

One of the main symptoms, losing the sense of smell, proved a large part of her research.

After initially gifting the candles to friends and family, Carol sold her products to people around the country.

One thing led to another and the store followed, with messages during a holiday showing how much of an impact she has made.

“I didn’t think I’d be here after six months to be fair,” she admitted. “I thought, ‘What have I done?’ at times but I’m glad I did it because it’s still here.

“I’ve signed up to stay here for a further three years too.

“While I was away, I had loads of people message me asking where I was, that’s a sign of how loyal a customer base that’s been developed.

“I had to put something on my Facebook page, saying, ‘Thanks for all the messages but I’m away.’

“Business has grown really well and I’m actually taking in another lady who will have her own section of the shop.

“She will be doing a lot of resin products – things like trinkets and other memorabilia.

“You’ve got to diversify in this world. On its own, it’s hard graft just to do one product line.”

*BLUEBIRD Candles can be found at 71, Melbourne Street, Stalybridge and online at www.bluebirdcandles.co.uk. Carol can be contacted by either calling 07923 982746 or emailing carol@bluebirdcandles.co.uk. It can be found on Facebook at www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100075731869992  and Instagram at www.instagram.com/bluebirdcandles2020.