In the past, she was an accountant, an entrepreneur, a person with clear logic and practical thinking. Today, she is a creative soul and the founder of the candle brand “Palae.” Olena Nikolaieva admits: life in Switzerland has been not only a challenge but also a chance to finally listen to herself. “Either keep your head busy or your hands,” she recalls with a smile about her first year after moving. “I chose my hands.”
From Accounting to Creativity
Before the war, Olena’s life was well organized: work, children, daily routines. There was little room for creativity.
“I always loved drawing and creating things with my hands, but there was never enough time. In Switzerland, that space appeared. And when things got hard, I realized I had to either bury myself in work or start creating. That’s how candles came into my life.”
It all began by accident — with a single candle her daughter had brought from Ukraine. “It stood among our belongings, and suddenly I felt I wanted to try making one myself.”
Olena poured her first candle in her kitchen — into an old container she found at a flea market. “It was right before Christmas,” she laughs. “All my friends received my candles as gifts that year.”
The Birth of the “Palae” Brand
The name of her brand wasn’t chosen by chance. “I thought about it for a long time — I wanted it to be connected with Ukraine. And the word palae (‘it burns’) resonated deeply with me. It’s about inner light, about kindling within yourself what you’re missing.”
Her slogan “Light Your Own Flame” means much more than just a candle. It’s about the strength to keep burning in a new world where everything feels foreign and unfamiliar.
The Warmth of Hands and the Scent of Flowers
Olena’s candles are more than just decoration. They are small works of art, adorned with natural flowers and herbs.
“I created a botanical collection — it’s the one dearest to my heart. Each candle is like a story. I feel that a part of my soul lives in them,” says Olena.
Her creations are delicate, natural, and fragrant. They smell of lavender, dried petals, and summer. Each one carries its own philosophy — calm, inspiration, and balance.
“I See It Growing Bigger”
Despite her modesty, there’s a spark of determination in Olena’s eyes. She doesn’t hide that she dreams of having her own art space: “I see a studio, a small shop — a place where people can attend workshops, meet, and create together. It will be a space of light.”
Olena has already taken part in Swiss artisan markets, is gradually building a circle of customers, and has a clear plan — to turn her passion into a business.
“Without Creativity, It’s Impossible Now
Olena is convinced that everyone who has experienced forced displacement needs creativity.
“I know what it’s like to feel suspended between heaven and earth. And without my candles, it would have been very hard. They are my therapy, my anchor,” she adds.
Her family supports her in everything — especially her daughter. “She’s happy that I’m doing what I love. And if someone doesn’t understand — that’s okay. The main thing is that I feel good.”
From Stability to Meanin
In Switzerland, handmade crafts are often seen as a hobby rather than serious work. But Olena disagrees: “For me, it’s a path with meaning. When your candles bring people peace and joy — that’s already more than just business.”
The light Olena has kindled within herself now helps others find theirs.
Her brand “Palae” is more than candles — it’s the story of a woman who lost her home but found herself. And perhaps that’s why her candles burn with such special warmth — the warmth of gratitude, strength, and love for life.
