Our Story

Founded by Eza Lopez, a proud citizen of the Barbareño/Ventureño Band of Mission Indians, 'aqniyəwus is more than a candle company it is a spiritual and cultural movement rooted in intention, sovereignty, and ancestral remembrance.

Eza’s love for fragrance began early in life. Scents have always carried memories, meaning, and emotion. But as he deepened his reconnection with his Chumash heritage, scent became something even more powerful: a tool for manifestation, healing, and cultural revival.

In his late twenties, Eza discovered the sacred Chumash language, once declared extinct. This revelation was both exciting and empowering. From that moment forward, he committed himself to learning, sharing, and reawakening the mother tongue so that future generations wouldn’t have to search so hard for their voice. 'aqniyəwus became his way to bring that intention into the world.

We use 100% soy wax, clean fragrance oils free from toxins and phthalates, and materials that reflect our deep respect for the Earth. Every scent is selected with purpose. Every flame is lit with a prayer. No matter what blend, each candle is designed not just to scent a space, but to shift energy and awaken intention.

ETHOS

  • Intention

    Lighting a candle is often overlooked as ordinary—but in truth, it’s deeply ceremonial. It is a quiet, powerful act of being present. When you light an 'aqniyəwus candle, you are setting the stage for manifestation, mindfulness, and remembrance. You are honoring those who came before and planting seeds for the abundance yet to come.

  • Our values guide everything we do:

    Sovereignty — We stand in our power as Indigenous creators and protectors of culture.

    Sustainability — We care for the Earth, as our ancestors did, choosing clean, responsible materials.

    Spiritual Wellness — Every candle is a practice in alignment, balance, and healing.

    Language Preservation — We speak life into our mother tongue, reigniting what was nearly lost.

  • Our vision is bold and beautiful:

    To grow community.

    To inspire others to connect with their own heritage.

    To shine light on a culture that was put to sleep—and to be the spark that helps wake it up with intention, beauty, and care.

    You are not just buying a candle. You are lighting a flame of remembrance. A moment of presence. A declaration of abundance.


    Welcome to the movement. Welcome to 'aqniyəwus.

Return Policy

At 'aqniyəwus, each candle is crafted with care, intention, and respect for the land and lineage it represents. Because of the nature of our small-batch, handcrafted process-all sales are final.

We do not accept returns, exchanges, or cancellations at this time. Please double check your order before completing your purchase.

If your item arrives damaged or incorrect, please contact us within 5 days of delivery at eza@aqniyewus.com and we will do our best to make it right. 

 

Thank you for honoring the work, energy, and intention that goes into each piece. 

 

- 'aqniyəwus