Brand Story
2015 - 2016
Founded by Laura Frankenschmidt on the principles of sustainability and authenticity to create products that enhance spaces and everyday life. With no start-up capital, the wax for the first candle was melted over the stove in Lauras kitchen. Business cards were hand written and jars purchased from second hand stores became the first candle range. The first batch was successfully sold at the Lyttelton market in Christchurch, New Zealand.
2016 - 2017
Lyttelton Lights was incorporated as a company. The 100 year old cottage in Lyttelton quickly turned from a home into a candle production line. Space was limited, the spare room became storage and the couch was sold to make room for trestle tables. Candles were sold at various markets which enabled reinvestment and and product upgrades.
2017 - 2018
The first major purchase was made. A 50lb electric melter took its place on the kitchen bench. The cottage soon proved too small and everything was moved into a storage shed down the road. New glassware and the embossed Lyttelton Lights lids replaced the old.
2018 - 2019
The storage unit soon proved unsuitable and the first lease premises was signed. A small unit divided into production and storage became the home for the first staff members employed. A business name became a brand, and the list of stockists steadily increased nationwide.2019 - 2020
Laura expanded the product range adding room fragrances, liquid hand wash, limited editions and accessories. Lyttelton Lights outgrew its old space and moved into a much larger custom fitted premises. Despite significant unforeseen challenges such as the recent pandemic, Lyttelton Lights continued to grow and employed additional staff.
2021 - 2023
Laura continues to build a people focused company with a working culture that takes pride in addressing sustainability within every aspect of its daily operation. 4 additional staff joined the team and new products have been released. Significant investments have been made to transform production capabilities, warehousing and sustainable practices. Lyttelton Lights is working towards becoming a carbon neutral company and is contributing to a healthier planet. As a proud member of the We The Reef program Lyttelton Lights has signed an ocean commitment and is actively contributing to a healthier planet by supporting Coral Gardeners mission to save reefs in Mo'orea, French Polynesia.