Great Bear Wax Company

Great Bear Wax Company is a candle business based out of Birmingham, Alabama. The candles that founder Jake Carnley creates are mainly scents that can be found in nature such as, campfire, forest, and jasmine. The company has a really cool story of how it all began.

Carnley explains that he's always enjoyed working with his hands, and he's loved what candles bring to a room, so he made a leap of faith and created Great Bear Wax Co. with only about $900 (which broke even within the first 48 hours of opening). He believes that his company is personable and creates a relationship with the consumers who buy his product versus buying a mass made candle at a chain store.

In the words of Jake Carnley, "Candles bring comfort, peace, friendliness, communion, and familiarity to a room. A lit candle means 'something's happening.'"

Augusta Cole: Artistry

Our friend Augusta Cole has such the creative eye. She's both an incredible artist, and a fabulous stylist. Augusta started her own business, Artistry, so she could, as she says, "bring an artistic vision to memorable events whether that be a photoshoot, or your wedding day." She definitely does just that. We think she has such a God-given talent, so we wanted to share some of her amazing work with you!

Images by Mandy Busby

Image by Jennifer Pharr

Augusta was born and raised right here in Birmingham, Alabama. She attended Samford University, and had the opportunity to work for an event coordinator and floral designer. She has such a passion for art, and she felt the Lord calling her to create Artistry. As you can see, her work is truly a reflection of her passion.

Image by Mandy Busby

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Wreath Workshop with Mandy Busby

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We had the pleasure of hosting such a fun event with the lovely Mandy Busby. Earlier last month our guests were taught how to handcraft their very own wreaths using all fresh materials. Mandy provided a relaxing atmosphere for the ladies, and gave great one-on-one assistance while they created their masterpieces. We even rolled up our sleeves and assembled a wreath of our own to hang over the fireplace at Bustle!

Thank you to all of the fabulous ladies who attended. Your wreaths are AMAZING! We had such a blast getting to know you. Also, a huge thank you to Mandy Busby for sharing your creative talent with us!

Bustle Bride: Candice Williams Henderson

Candice was such a gorgeous and classic bride in her timeless Amsale gown. She made the gown her very own by adding covered buttons and a custom belt by seamstress, Catherine Ryals.

Photos courtesy of Magen Davis Photography.

Bustle Bride: Kenslea Ray Carter

Our darling bride, Kenslea, chose an incredible illusion back, fit & flare gown by Tara Keely. She was an absolute dream!

Bustle Bride: Laura Newton Rutledge

Laura looked absolutely stunning in her lace Rivini gown. The dress is tiered lace with bands of delicate beading beneath the lace. Such a unique yet classic style, perfect for this beautiful bride.

Images courtesy of Madeline J Photography.

Bustle Bride: Marie Pruett Davis

Marie knew from the start that she wanted her wedding dress to be light and airy to suit her seaside soiree. The couple had a beautiful destination wedding in Antigua and Marie's dress suited the occasion absolutely perfectly. The silk mini dress by Heidi Elnora has a lovely lace overlay covering the bodice, and delicate, floor length chiffon overlaying the skirt.