Meet Our Artisan Partner
Teotitlán del Valle, Mexico
Doña Viviana Alávez
Doña Viviana, now in her eighth decade, continues to pour her passion into handcrafting candles from 100% beeswax sourced in Chiapas. Every candle is created with meticulous care, layer upon layer, reflecting her dedication to a tradition that has been part of her family for 300 years. Since childhood, Viviana has worked with beeswax, and this craft has not only supported her and her family but also her entire village.
As she nears the later stages of life, Viviana is preparing to pass her cherished candle-making techniques to her two sons. In her workshop, one can witness the profound emotional exchange of knowledge and artistry between generations. This intimate transfer of skill captures Viviana's legacy, showcasing her as both a mother and a trailblazer.
Viviana's creative spirit led her to break with tradition when she began making rose and flower-shaped candles. Inspired by the delicate beauty of a rose she admired one day, she created a stunning candle that she secretly lit in her village church. The candle caused a sensation, and this new style became her signature. In a village where candles hold deep cultural significance in proposals, weddings, and religious ceremonies, Viviana's innovation grew beyond her community, building a legacy that is now celebrated all across Mexico.