The 52nd Friday Four

Thanks for catching up with the Friday Four series, simply the 4 weekly highlights from behind the scenes at Tura Lura Co. in West Branch. And… it’s last Friday of 2024 - Let’s get into lessons learned in 2024!

1. Make a commitment and follow through.

   At the beginning of 2024, I shared that I was going to write a note every Friday to give space to reflect on the week at Tura Lura Co. The title was lovingly called the Friday Four, to share 4 things about behind the scenes or highlights of each week. Making space to slow down and think, to look ahead with excitement. To put words out into the world that weren’t too “markety” and still provide information on the happenings at the studio. Here’s what I learned in this experiment. When I make a promise to myself, it can be hard to keep it. Other things get in the way. I let myself down. However - When I make a commitment with others, I keep it. This is a lesson I teach to students. We make our SMART goals, then write them down, and talk about them. When we share goals with other people then it’s easier to follow through. This email series was a commitment to you, and it was a practice of consistency for me. Thank you for letting me come into your inboxes every Friday this year, I know what a privilege it is to be in that space.

2. Create more magical moments.

   Being able to create with people this year allowed for many memories to be crafted. I love hearing from folks about how they made a new friend from a studio class, had an experience with a distant family member from out of town at a private party, or just engrained a special moment in time. That’s what a novelty making candles and perfumes can be - it’s not an every day experience, it’s a special occasion to gather. And with a little bit of planning and intentionality we can make it a really happy and memorable time! In the midst of hosting so many experiences, I also started to challenge myself to get out of my own routine to try new things with friends, family, and self. I am loving exploring and trying new places and spaces, and am going to continue making a bucket list of items to create more memories in 2025!

3. Change is the only constant in life.

   This small business began with hand crafting concrete candles in 2022 to simply teaching creative classes in 2024 in a small studio. We never know what life has in store, and we have to listen closely at what feels like the next right thing. After about a thousand more people served in classes during 2024, I am continuing to pivot and chart the next step. During 2025, I am making a commitment to slow down. To be home for more bedtimes, to be present and in the moment, not missing out in the small details of everyday life. So, I’ll be offering less pop up classes and events to achieve a slower pace. What this also means is that I am making room to focus on building my skills. When I started offering Pour + Restore, I realized how much I missed teaching movement. So I got back into practice, I took some continuing ed and am working on my 500 RYT during the first half of 2025. So in the coming months you will see opportunities to breathe and move with me!

4. Fragrances are powerful tools.

   I have always been obsessed with candles, essential oils, and using organic items (like lemon or mint from the garden) to help set the tone of an environment. Fragrance can be therapeutic, there is a mind-body connection, and each person likes different things! I believe strongly that we can use fragrance as a tool in our daily routines, and after working with so many people the last few years I can narrow down to which combinations are beloved and work well to relax or energize people. Coming into 2025, I am going to have a small collection of my most popular fragrances and share more about the oils and benefits! These small products have a direct and profound impact on our emotions, memories, and physiological responses, and I am excited to get back into some more small batch releases in 2025.

   Stepping into this year, I knew I’d learn a lot from the little studio in the Opera House. The space gave me freedom to play and try new things, which ultimately lead me to coming back to myself. While I say goodbye to 2024, I have so many fond memories and am so grateful for having a space. And as I look to 2025, I am excited about all the possibilities about operating from a home studio and what will unfold next. Holding two truths simultaneously—especially when those truths seem to be in conflict—means accepting that life is complex and that our understanding of it is often nuanced and layered. Thank you for joining me this year in email, and hope you continue to stick around for the shenanigans next year! I’ll be taking a little bit of time off the computer to celebrate the new year then will be back sharing about upcoming happenings. So for now, a toast - to kindness and love, the things we need most.

   Erika

The 51st Friday Four

Thanks for catching up with the Friday Four series, simply the 4 weekly highlights from behind the scenes at Tura Lura Co. in West Branch.

1. The last Candle Pour Bar of 2024 happened at the Green House in Iowa City this week! I adore the Green House, and the owner Emily. They are constantly hosting amazing events, markets, live music and more - plus have the best mocktails around. During the holiday candle party I was sipping on their cranberry rosemary shrub, and am now obsessed with this holiday concoction - so I will be going back for more!

2. In the last moments before holidays I am finishing up my shopping. I even ran up to visit boutiques in Galena with some friends last weekend to get some goodies! I still am going to head over to Amana this coming week, and of course visit my favorites in West Branch and Iowa City to get some final stocking stuffers. While I know many of us are trying our best to support small and local, I continue to hear from so many small businesses owners that this has been the toughest year to date. I am a firm believer to put your money where your values are. It takes more effort, but finding a small business owner to purchase books and gifts from this season has been joyful - because I know the impact even one purchase can make. I have so much empathy and love for the people who are chasing their dreams, and are the backbones of our local communities. If you have any last minute purchases, this is my nudge to go shop small :)

3. Boxes are getting packed, items are getting moved out of West Branch, and I am prepping to say goodbye to the Opera House next week. This year has been so significant, to learn and grow. To be a tiny little part of the history of the space, to trying something new, and to make some amazing friends along the way. Next week I am going to share the top 4 takeaways from 2024, and set intention for what’s next. My favorite question to ask people right now is “what are you letting go of while leaving 2024, and what are you seeking in 2025”… reply and let me know!

4. The season can be really tough. Hosting holidays, general stress, and lack of sunlight had me not feeling my best. So I made a commitment to do some daily breathing and mindful moments to help feel grounded the last few weeks. The truth is, it’s working. I am finding much more patience and peace, and I am going to continue to seek that in 2025.

That’s all for this Friday! Have a great day!

Erika

The 50th Friday Four

Thanks for catching up with the Friday Four series, simply the 4 weekly highlights from behind the scenes at Tura Lura Co. in West Branch.

1. I got into candle making because it’s kind of like baking. A little bit of artistry and a little bit of science. Last week on social media I shared my favorite easy peasy GF cookie recipe that I’ve been bringing into the studio to share - thumbprint cookies! In case you missed it all you need to do it mix 2 cups almond flour, 6 tablespoons softened butter, 6 tablespoons of powdered sugar, plus a dash of salt and 1 teaspoon of vanilla. Roll into balls and press your thumb into it, then fill your thumbprint with your favorite jam. Bake 8-10 minutes and viola! A magical little treat.

2. In addition to baking, I have been helping people making up candles in West Branch and across Iowa! It’s probably been my busiest week this calendar year. Plus, Candle Pour Bar continues into next week with more private parties and events to gather and celebrate. While there are no more public facing classes in 2024, the next open candle event is on February 11 at Big Grove in Iowa City!

3. If you can’t wait until February for another candle, I kept the option for custom candles on the website. Some folks are using this for a last minute personalized gift. Feel free to reach out with any last minute holiday requests!

4. This week has also been significant because I just hosted my last studio party. The boxes are beginning to get packed, and move out will start next week. I’ve been doing a lot of reflecting and will get all my words out in the next two weeks. In lieu of words, here is my friendly reminder to support local this holiday season and spend time with the people you love the most.

With care,

Erika