What started as a simple business to make money for toys and games has transformed into an award-winning company that gives back to the community while filling homes with comforting aromas. The Washington-based candle company, Freres Branchiaux Candle Co., was founded by the Gill brothers — Collin, Ryan and Austin — in October 2017 while they were still in grade school.
The brothers’ decision to found a business was initially roused by a motivation to earn more allowance for their video games. At first, they were unsure what trade they would take on. While brainstorming, they asked their mother what her favorite product was, and her reply — candles — became the inspiration for a company which has since grown into a success around the country.
Given their ages at the time, the Gill brothers faced challenges when first jump-starting their endeavors. In an interview given to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the brothers said they felt they weren’t being taken seriously because of their ages. However, despite being some of the youngest in their field, they quickly mastered their craft and stood out among their competitors. As the company increasingly turned a noticeable profit, the boys began to budget how much would be reinvested in the business and how much was available to spend on themselves. Austin, the youngest, first proposed donating some of their toy money to a local homeless shelter. While speaking to the Washington Post, he said, “Every time I saw a homeless person, I was always asking Mom if we could give money to them and this is a way to do it.” Thus, an idea was born.
After deciding to donate more than 10 percent of their monthly profit to homeless shelters, the boys wanted to become even more involved. They began volunteering during their spare time and committed to returning every two months. Looking forward, they hope to open up shops and factories where they can hire homeless individuals and continue giving back to the community.
Creating high-quality candles has occupied the brothers with full-time job commitments. Celena Gill, the boys’ mother, homeschools them so they can run the company according to their schedules. Collin, the eldest, handles 50-60 percent of the candle making and pouring, while Ryan, the self-proclaimed “Scent Master,” crafts special combinations of fragrances and oils for the products. Austin is in charge of marketing and sales. Along with these roles, the brothers manage the packaging, wrapping and shipping of each product.
Their work has afforded them new opportunities such as traveling, financial independence and a trade that can be passed down through generations.
For their dedication and determination, the Gill family business has won numerous awards, such as the 2019 DC Chamber of Commerce Youth Entrepreneur of the Year Award, the 2019 Best of DC and features in the Washington Post and Good Morning America.
Frères Branchiaux Candle Co.’s products can be found at Ace Hardware, Macy’s, online and at various retail stores. Specialty candles range in price from $18-$36.
