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Who Is Lula?

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Lucetta "Lula" Orr

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Born April 20, 1951, in Apopka, Florida to William H. Orr and Marie McKenzie Orr, Lucetta Orr was a mother, sister, daughter, grandmother, cousin, Godmother, friend, and servant. On January 5, 2018, my mom's Godmother, one of my Granny's best friends and the woman I affectionately called "Auntie Lula" passed from her battle with cancer and gained her angel wings. She was someone who closely cared for my mother and I, when I was younger - I looked to her as a bonus Grandmother. Although I knew for months that her time on this earth, was limited, I was not emotionally ready to let her go. 

 

Nothing can ever prepare you for death, even when you know it's inevitable. 

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For as back as I can remember, my Auntie Lula was the one who introduced me to the world of art & crafts - really using my hands as tools. She encouraged and allowed me to explore my creative side. With her, I was always making things with my hands. As a child, I remember clearly being able to disconnect from the world and get lost in making blankets, crochet, jewelry (bracelets, earrings, necklaces), pillows, key chains – ALL of it! I remember being at peace during those times and not stressing over the issues I may have been dealing with as a child. Most of all, I remember just being happy and having fun!

For all of the big moments in my life, Auntie Lula was there - recitals, inductions, award presentations, high school graduation, college graduation, my bridal shower, and my wedding. I just knew that she’d still be around when my husband and I decided to start a family of our own. But I had to face reality, just three months after one of the best moments of my life (my wedding), I’d be preparing to say goodbye to her - it was and still is unimaginable. I knew what was happening, but I had no control over it. No say so in the matter and to be honest, I just was not ready. So in December 2017 for Christmas, I went back to my hometown fully knowing that it would be the last time I'd be able to give her a hug, say thank you, and I love you. I couldn't bring myself to say goodbye, it was just too hard.  

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Unprepared, unequipped, and unable to properly process my grief I found myself in a really dark place. Over time, all these things only increased my anxiety leading me to be formally diagnosed with depression. I continued therapy and that along with my strong faith in God allowed me to develop healthy coping mechanisms and strategies to deal with my anxiety, manage my stress and understand depression. I began to implement self-care and intentionally create quiet times for myself by scheduling a massage, facial, meditating, doing yoga, and taking the time to clear my head. I also started exploring the world of Arts & Crafts again; I began to paint coasters, make ceramic bowls and key-chains. Another common feature and fixture in my self-care routine became lighting a candle in my home. Allowing the flickers of the flame and the aroma truly helped to relax my mind and bring peace to me at the moment even in the midst of grief. 

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In my own way, I decided to create this candle company to honor my Auntie Lula, to thank her, and become the woman I knew she’d always want me to be. I also wanted to remember those who may have also lost their loved ones due to cancer and to celebrate the lives of others who have endured and come out on the other side beating cancer. 

I truly hope you enjoy each and every product on this site. Please know that everything was hand poured and made with love, especially made for those who deserve a few moments of peace and a soothing escape from reality.

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I sincerely thank you for supporting Lula's Candle Co. 

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With love, 

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Courtney Sykes

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