Our Story
Our Story
Every Home Has a Story. Ours Began at 2312.
People often ask us what 2312 means.
Some assume it’s a date. Others think it’s simply a name.
But to us, 2312 is home.
It’s the address where my story began.
It’s where my faith first took root, where my character was shaped, and where I learned the values that continue to guide every part of this company today.
When I think of 2312, I don’t just remember a house—I remember a home filled with love, faith, laughter, and the kind of everyday moments that become lifelong memories.
It was where family gathered around the table.
Where prayers were spoken before the day began.
Where holidays were celebrated.
Where neighbors became friends.
Where I first learned that home isn’t measured by its size, but by the love that’s shared within its walls.
Growing up as the daughter of a veteran, I learned the importance of integrity, service, perseverance, gratitude, and faith. Those values weren’t simply spoken—they were lived. They became the foundation of who I am and, years later, the foundation of 2312 & Company.
The Power of Home
Some of my favorite memories began in the kitchen.
The comforting aroma of something baking.
Fresh lemons on the counter.
Warm vanilla filling every room.
The sound of laughter carrying through the house while family gathered together.
I learned that fragrance has a remarkable way of bringing people together.
A familiar scent can instantly transport you back to a cherished memory.
It can make strangers feel welcomed.
It can turn an ordinary afternoon into a moment you’ll remember for years to come.
Those simple experiences planted a seed in my heart long before I ever poured my first candle.
Without realizing it, I was learning that fragrance doesn’t just fill a room.
It helps shape the atmosphere within it.
A New Chapter
Years later, as I began creating a home of my own, I found myself returning to those same memories.
I wanted my family to experience that same feeling of warmth.
The same peace.
The same comfort.
The same sense of belonging.
As I became more intentional about the products we brought into our home, I began paying closer attention to the ingredients in the things we used every day—especially the products we burned in the spaces where we gathered, rested, prayed, and created memories together.
I wanted beautiful home fragrances that were thoughtfully made with ingredients I felt confident using around the people I loved most.
When I couldn’t find exactly what I was looking for, I decided to create it myself.
That decision became 2312 & Company.
More Than Fragrance
People often describe us as a candle company.
While candles are certainly part of what we do, they aren’t the heart of why we exist.
We believe atmosphere matters.
The atmosphere where children are raised.
The atmosphere around your dinner table.
The atmosphere during morning prayer.
The atmosphere where friends gather.
The atmosphere that welcomes someone through your front door.
Because atmosphere shapes memories.
It influences conversations.
It invites rest.
It encourages connection.
Every candle, room spray, wax crumble, mug, and thoughtfully designed product we create is made to help you cultivate a home filled with warmth, peace, and purpose.
Not just for special occasions—but for everyday life.
Why We Choose Clean Ingredients
From the beginning, our commitment to cleaner ingredients wasn’t about following trends.
It was about protecting the atmosphere of our own home.
We believe what fills the air your family breathes should be chosen with the same care as what fills your table.
That’s why every 2312 & Company candle is handcrafted using a premium coconut apricot wax blend, clean-burning cotton wicks, and carefully selected phthalate-free fragrance oils.
Every ingredient is chosen intentionally because we believe caring for your home begins with caring for the people inside it.
It’s a commitment we made for our own family—and one we’re honored to extend to yours.
Why “Be the Light”?
While 2312 reminds us where our story began, Matthew 5:16 reminds us why it continues.
“Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.”
This Scripture has become the heartbeat of everything we create.
To us, Be the Light is more than a collection.
It’s more than a phrase.
It’s an invitation.
An invitation to live with kindness.
To welcome others generously.
To encourage someone who’s weary.
To gather around the table.
To create homes where faith is lived, peace is felt, and love is shared.
Just as a single candle can brighten a dark room, one act of grace can brighten someone’s life.
That’s the legacy we hope every 2312 & Company product carries into your home.
From Our Home to Yours
Every fragrance we create carries a piece of our story.
Our prayer is that it becomes part of yours.
That your kitchen becomes a place of laughter.
That your living room becomes a place of connection.
That your prayer corner becomes a place of renewal.
That your home becomes a place where people feel welcomed, encouraged, and loved.
Because in the end, we aren’t simply creating candles.
We’re helping create the atmosphere where life’s most meaningful moments unfold.
Thank you for allowing us to be a small part of your story.
From our family to yours—
Be the Light.
Because even the smallest light can brighten the darkest room.
One last thought
I would end this page with a handwritten-style signature and a personal note from you:
With gratitude,
Valerie Johnson
Founder, 2312 & Company
“My prayer is that every product we create reminds you that home is more than a place—it is where faith grows, love gathers, and light shines brightest. Thank you for letting us be a part of your story.”
