In the early 1800s, Black women ‘luminaries' lit Newport's streets. One woman is looking to rekindle that legacy.
LMNRY, which is pronounced Luminary, crafts candles from coconut soy wax and uses wooden wicks. She offers a candle-making experience class, which dives into the history of the craft and candle-making in Newport.
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Q: How does the business rekindle the forgotten legacy of Black women in Newport?
Jones:
Newport's Black history, like much of Black history in America, was told rather than officially recorded, leaving many stories missing or lost to time. What little we know about the Black women candle-makers of Newport comes from oral history shared by Rev. Alvin Riley of Mt. Zion Church. He recounted how Black women from the church made candles, which were then used to light the city's streets.
Any historical records that would have been recorded were tragically lost when the original church burned down.
LMNRY helps rekindle that history by honoring the legacy of the Black women who crafted candles to ensure Newport's streets were lit at night. Newport was among the earliest cities in the country to have street lights, and the contributions of Black women were crucial to making that happen. Through candle-making, I am continuing their craft, sharing their story, and making sure their impact is recognized and remembered.
Q: How does LMNRY fit into your own personal and professional background?
I began my career in retail, transitioned to working at a hotel front desk, moved to casino gaming, and then shifted to conventional banking. Through these experiences, I have always been creative. I had a passion for fashion and went to school for early childhood education. I always wanted to own a boutique, initially envisioning a clothing store. At 27, I was diagnosed with
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Q: Where are you sourcing your ingredients from?
My candles are sourced from a select group of small candle supply vendors across the country who prioritize quality and ethical sourcing, I use high-end clean burning materials that are all Prop 65 compliant, phthalate-free, and nontoxic, ensuring a safe and luxurious experience with every candle.
Q: What does it mean to you to be the only Black woman to own a business on historic Thames Street?
To me, representation is very important. I was born here in Newport, but becoming a business owner has introduced me to an entirely new side of this place that has been here the whole time. It's a different world. I have had the opportunity to sit at tables I never imagined I would, but it hasn't always been easy. I have met resistance, and there has been little to no advocacy or support. That is why I know there is still more work to do. I want to help other women and aspiring business owners not just find a seat at the table but build their own.
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Q: Speaking from your experience opening the business, what changes would you like to see in Newport's small business community to make it more diverse and inclusive?
It's a common misconception that Newport residents don't need resources. Through organizations like
Q: What goals do you have for the next year? What about the next five years?
I plan to ramp up production and marketing to position LMNRY to be in stores and one day amongst the likes of Jo Malone, Harlem Candle Co,. and Diptyque. I also aim to create more local jobs by hiring employees to host candle-making experiences at our shop.
Q: What challenges are you facing, and how do you plan on overcoming them?
Building LMNRY from the ground up from nothing comes with imposter syndrome, especially as a nontraditional business owner on Thames. I combat this by owning my space and proving that there's room at the table for everyone here. Lack of access to capital, inventory management, and staffing are ongoing challenges, but I'm handling that with strategic reinvestment, refining operations and building a passionate team. I also face competition from non-local franchises, making it crucial to highlight the authenticity and essence of Newport and the importance of shopping local.
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With limited representation in this space, I'm committed to not only growing my business, but inspiring and supporting others to do the same.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
The Boston Globe's weekly Ocean State Innovators column features a Q&A with Rhode Island innovators who are starting new businesses and nonprofits, conducting groundbreaking research, and reshaping the state's economy. Send tips and suggestions to reporter Alexa Gagosz at
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