Reading by Candlelight Books!
CAVAN BUSINESS & TOURISM AWARDS 2023
Candlelight Books is a small family-run book and gift shop in Cavan town that is focused on supporting local authors, artists and crafters.
Husband and wife team Patrick and Jess Fitzhenry wanted to create a warm, welcoming environment for the people of the area where they could treat themselves or their loved ones without breaking the bank.
The store offers a range of new and used books from every genre, as well as a selection of affordable gifts including jewellery, handmade soaps and crystals. Customers range from parents with young children to teenagers and elderly people looking for a good book without having to spend a fortune.
“From day one our aim was to create a space that was calming and inviting, where customers could take a break from their busy lives and relax in a tranquil environment with no pressure to buy,” says Jess.
“We wanted the shop to become a social hub for the community, and from our first week it was been exactly that, but more importantly, it has become a safe space for young people and a place where the older members of the community can take their time and not feel rushed.”
Meanwhile, the best business advice that Jess and Patrick received was to look after their customers. “Our customers are our business, simple as that really, without them we wouldn’t be here,” continued Jess.
“We try to look after people and genuinely care about our customers. This has organically grown a large group of loyal customers many who’ve become friends.”
Candlelight Books has found 2023 to be a challenging one because of reduced customer spend as a result of the cost of living crisis. Jess says that, with the future development plans for Cavan Town on the horizon, both she and Patrick are hopeful of “riding out the storm” and eventually growing the business further. Jess says that she was shocked to find that the store had been shortlisted for a business award. She pointed to the “big surprise” she got when she heard the news.
“It was tricky when we first set up the business to bring everything together,” she said.
“Cavan Local Enterprise Centre was very helpful to us and we have great support from the people of Cavan. So, it has all worked out very well.”
CONTACT US
Candlelight Books are based at 87 Main St, Cavan Town. You can call them on 049-4322132.