Danny Ruiz is a candle maker whose artistry transcends wax and wick. As the founder of RUIZ Atelier, he creates memory-driven candle scents steeped in the essence of his grandmother’s Mexico home. For Ruiz, crafting candles is more than just a business and each candle in his collection serves as a vessel for memory.

This segment was produced by contributor Edgar Lopez, a past participant of Vocalo’s storytelling workshop and a high school friend of Ruiz. It was edited by Vocalo audio and community storytelling producer, and storytelling workshop facilitator, Ari Mejia. Learn more about RUIZ Atelier by following them on Instagram @ruizatelier.