Meet the Maker

Hey,

Welcome to Ritual + Fancy!

My name is Shakira and I make botanical fragrances that are designed to improve your space and spirit.

BACKSTORY

After burning out twice in Silicon Valley’s fast-paced world of event planning and innovation consulting, I discovered the vital need for self-care. The stress of overworking took a toll on my well-being, but it ultimately led me down a path of healing and transformation. Burnout became the turning point, inspiring me to create a business rooted in nurturing both myself and others.

Overworking left me depleted, creatively unfulfilled, and facing stress-induced health issues. Anxiety, sleepless nights, and strained relationships pushed me to a breaking point. What began as a simple month off turned into a journey of reconnection—through painting, meditation, and meaningful relationships. But it wasn’t until I started making my own candles—free from the synthetic additives that caused me headaches—that I found true peace in creating something pure.

I soon began sharing my candles with others, and over time, what started as personal healing evolved into a business. A few years later, I moved to Portland, left the hectic lifestyle behind, and embraced my role as an artist and creator of natural, beautiful tools for intentional living.

PRINCIPLES

At Ritual + Fancy, every product is crafted with integrity. We use only the highest quality ingredients, and everything we create is something I personally use in my own home. Our ingredients are sourced responsibly—most from the U.S. We avoid plastics and plant a tree for every candle sold.

ANCESTRY + INSPIRATION

My eclectic fragrances and aromatherapy blends draw from my diverse heritage and the places I’ve lived. My mother is Black, White (Italian, French, Irish), and Native American (Choctaw) with roots in Louisiana. My father is Egyptian, Indian, Portuguese, and Nigerian, born in British Guyana. I grew up in the Bay Area, studied in Italy and Switzerland, and have since lived in San Francisco, Seattle, and Portland. Now, I’m rooted in wine country just outside of Portland.

ARTS + INTERESTS

Painting + Drawing, Travel, Food & Wine, Gardening + Plants, Big Dogs, Photography, History, Architecture + Design, Music, Creative Nonfiction, Magic, Cooking, Enjoying + Creating Beautiful Experiences.