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In
1995, John & Ann Copeland began handcrafting scented candles and
metal accessories out of there home in Oklahoma. After a couple of
years of part time efforts, the business out grew their garage. And in
1998 the Copeland's purchased an old school house in rural Prairie
View, Arkansas (Ann's hometown). The kitchen area was quickly converted
into a candle making shop, and one of the bigger class rooms became a
metal shop. After a little planning and remodeling a couple more class
rooms were converted into a loft style apartment, and the front class
room is no a small gift shop that is always open (when we are there). Ann
is the chief candle maker, while John is the creator and designer of
all the metal stands. Although they are very proud of the current
product line, John & Ann are constantly looking out for ways at
enhancing their products. For example, Ann now is using a "self
trimming" wick in many of the candles and hope to have it in all of the
candles very soon. Also, John has recently began painting some of his
stands with a powder coating that is very durable and very attractive
as well. Some
bee's wax is incorporated into the Copeland formula to enhance the
burning characteristics. The metal stands are made from mild steel that
is cut, formed, welded, and painted in the metal shop. The cracked
glass, that is one of the Copeland trademarks, is manufactured by a
large glass company using molds designed and owned by Copeland Company.
Ann
& John work very hard throughout the summer months to build
inventory for the fall and winter arts and craft selling season.
Besides here on-line you can purchase the Copeland products at a few
select shops around the country, at the school house gift shop, and at
the arts and crafts show that John & Ann participate in around the
country.
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