About Us
At Candles of Courage, we believe that strength can be found in the face of adversity, and the story behind our business represents this belief. I am Elizabeth Aracely Talavera, the founder of Candles of Courage, and I want to share with you the personal journey that led to the creation of our company.
Growing up as the first granddaughter in a close-knit family, I was fortunate to be surrounded by a loving village of relatives. My name, Elizabeth Aracely, holds special significance as it represents the legacy of both my grandmothers, who played a pivotal role in shaping my identity. Raised by parents who embraced their responsibilities despite being young, I learned the value of family, support, and perseverance from an early age.
During my upbringing, my uncles and aunts from both sides of the family held a special place in my heart. So much they would introduce me to their friends as their daughter. They nurtured my passions for music, drawing, video games, and more, instilling in me the belief that no obstacle was undefeatable. Their unwavering support on my challenging days and their refusal to accept defeat as an answer taught me valuable life lessons that have shaped my character.
In 2017, my life took a painful turn as my beloved aunt Erika De La Riva was diagnosed with stage 4 non- treatable metastatic breast cancer. Erika was not only the youngest on my mom's side when I was born, but she also shared a unique bond with me, having changed my diapers and sharing Saturday morning cartoons. I was able to watch her go through teenage experiences and learn lessons second hand. She taught me even tomboys can wear pink and high heels. It’s actually more fun to be able to make a jump shot with high heels. Despite her own battles, she remained a loving and supportive presence in my life until her passing in December 2019. Her courage in the face of adversity continues to inspire me every day.
Now around this time my other aunt Aracely Estrada was battling substance abuse problems. She was the oldest on my mom’s side. So our bond was a bit different because she automatically took on the mom role when watching me. She showed me what a career woman looked like, to be independent, and to take care of those around me who mean the world to me. She would sit me down and read business textbooks and psychology books to me. She help mold the business and yearning to learn more to be better. Now her battle was a little more silent, it happened over time slowly. So being there for her looked a little different. It was more encouragement, not judging, and motivation. Sadly she lost her battle on January 21, 2023.
In dealing with passing of my two aunts who have had major role in my life. It was tough to see how lives obstacles can change your path. It can be from things you can’t control and you’re fighting against your own body or choices you make. These battles can be seen or unknown to those around you till it’s too late. As result of this, I have created Candles of Courage to be that light of courage for those battles not seen and seen.