A’ja Wilson, the WNBA and Olympic champion, has added another career highlight to her already impressive resume: candle entrepreneur.
Alongside her mother, Eva Rakes Wilson, A’ja started the Burnt Wax candle company in 2021, and the venture has since become a significant part of her off-court endeavors.
The idea for Burnt Wax was born during Christmastime when A’ja’s extensive collection of candles caught the attention of her mother.
With a passion for aromatherapy and a belief in the power of fragrances, A’ja and Eva embarked on a journey to create environmentally friendly, hand-poured candles with unique scents named after A’ja’s career accomplishments.
The candles quickly gained popularity, selling out within a day of their initial release.
A’ja’s intentional approach to every aspect of her life, from her laid-back pregame arrival outfits to her business ventures, reflects her commitment to authenticity and alignment with her personal brand.
A’ja’s dedication to Burnt Wax extends beyond the business aspect. She credits aromatherapy with helping her cope with the pressures of WNBA stardom and finding balance in her demanding career.
The scents created by Burnt Wax have accompanied A’ja through significant milestones, including her gold medal win at the Paris Olympics and leading the Aces to a repeat title in the WNBA.
The success of Burnt Wax has allowed A’ja and Eva to expand their team and grow the brand’s presence. With a focus on building generational wealth for their family, they envision Burnt Wax becoming a household name synonymous with high-quality, evocative fragrances.
As A’ja continues to excel on the court and in her entrepreneurial pursuits, Burnt Wax remains a testament to her creativity, determination, and commitment to making a meaningful impact both on and off the basketball court.