On Unseriousness, Scenty Art And Queer Icons: Andrew and Renato of Apothicc Studios
Today, we’re chatting with one of The Front Market’s Fall 2022 vendors Andrew and Renato of Apothicc Studios.
✰ ABOUT RENATO AND ANDREW
Apothicc was created by Andrew and Renato, a couple of old marrieds. They have two dogs: Janice, who basically runs the place, and Judy, who’s in charge of buttons and trims. And very little else. She’s not a multitasker.
Q: What inspired you to start Apothicc Studios?
A: Apothicc Studios began as a way to combine Renato’s love of illustration and Andrew's love of expensive candles! One day Andrew had an epiphany while staring at his phone... "Let's make candles, and see where it leads!"
We love the idea of bringing Renato’s Brazilian heritage and combining it with Andrew’s Country Queer vibe! Renato’s from the State of Pernambuco in Brazil that’s known for the vibrant colors and the artisans that create there. Andrew is from a small town in Texas that is known as being the home of a casino...
Q: Where does the name Apothicc Studios come from?
A: The name Apothicc came from the combination of the words Thicc and Apothecary! We wish it was a way cooler story, but unfortunately it's not.
Q: Where do you get the inspiration for your scents?
A: Our inspiration comes from all over! We released a collection of scents and designs that are inspired from the places we have lived. We have a coconut lime verbena candle called Valesca and it is inspired by the beaches of Brazil and Valesca is a famous pop star in Brazil that queer people are obsessed with (if you get a chance, check her out)!
Our Rose room candle is inspired by our brief stint in LA during the pandemic but we named it after the famous drag performance room at a club that we went to when we were feeling young and fun—obviously not during lockdown, so don't cancel us! We don't take ourselves too seriously and want to make cute stuff that makes people smile.
Q: What’s your personal favorite of your products?
A: Honestly all of our fragrances are a firm yes for us, but if we had to choose a favorite it would be the spicy woody scent of Dang (followed closely by our palo santo and rose candle called Rose Room).
Q: What are your goals for Apothicc Studios in 2023?
A: We are so excited about 2023! We have just launched an online artist collective with some of our favorite makers called Group Art Project! We are really looking forward to collaborating more on projects and focusing more on needle felt goods and stationary this year!
Q: Do you have any advice for creatives looking to start their own small business?
A: Do your taxes from the beginning, or else it will lead to a headache in the future! Also, make the things that make you happy and don't compare yourself to others.
Q: Our latest market theme was “Metaphorical Community Garden.” What does this mean to you?
A: To us this means being supportive of the people around you and showing as much love as you possibly can! You never know where people are coming from so just be nice!
