ALLENTOWN, Pa. — Enchanted Candles by India opened its doors Monday night at 227 Hamilton St with a heartfelt ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the culmination of years of dedication by owner Rhina “India” Montero.
The Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce hosted the event, marking the beginning of a new chapter for Montero, whose journey to entrepreneurship honors the memory of her late son, Noah.
Before the ceremony started, Montero released doves in Noah’s honor as a poignant tribute to the young boy who passed away from a traumatic brain injury four years ago.
Montero spoke with emotion about her son, struggles, and triumphs in building the business.
“This business means so much more than just a business,” Montero shared. “I’ve been working on this for four years, tackling so many obstacles. I know my son is proud of me, watching down from heaven. This is for him.”
An epiphany sparked the idea for Enchanted Candles after Montero quickly sold out of her handmade candles during a product launch.
Encouraged by her customers’ enthusiasm and driven by her passion, she expanded from selling in person and making deliveries to opening a storefront.
Montero’s journey reflects her perseverance and creativity. She sustained herself through seven different income streams while perfecting her craft.
Her candles are more than just a product—they embody a labor of love.
Montero focuses on offering family-friendly workshops where attendees can pour wax, decorate, and create custom candles.
She also provides custom-made-to-order options and sells some candles directly.
Brittney Ciardi, Senior Vice President of Allentown Initiatives for the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce, led the ribbon-cutting ceremony and praised Montero’s journey. “Today, we celebrate more than just the opening of a beautiful new business.
We celebrate a heartfelt vision brought to life by Rhina Montero. Enchanted Candles by India honors Noah’s beloved memory,” Ciardi said.
Montero reflected on her entrepreneurial journey, emphasizing the courage to pursue a dream. “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts,” she said. “We all have a purpose and a mission—it’s time to take action on your dreams.”
The community rallied to support Montero’s vision and honor Noah’s memory, turning the ribbon-cutting into a night of inspiration and heartfelt connection.
Enchanted Candles by India now welcomes Allentown residents to a unique space where they can create, connect, and celebrate the beauty of handcrafted candles.
Visit her website at https://www.enchanted-candles-by.com/ to book classes, or contact Rhina for custom orders.
