…or should I say, I knew him “way back when” he just sold candles and art in the Short North of Columbus, Ohio.  Paul’s shop 7 Buttles was a MUST see on any Gallery Hop evening.  I took all my friends there, and even a few frenemies (just to show ‘em what they were missin’)!  Out of town guests, newbies, everyone who dared venture into the Short North with VSGal, was dragged into Paul Robinett’s candle paradise.  Dreama & I posed for our Polaroid with my favorite candle scent – Number 33 – Pomegranate = Elation, one winter gallery hop.  And the last time I went to the little shop on Buttles, it was still there, hanging on the wall.  I admit is has been awhile – too long, but I will be back Paul, I will be back.

            It started with the candle store (which also featured his photography, art, and greeting cards), and then you could order custom labels.  Custom labels on the candles for your wedding, retirement, birthday, anniversary, charity, you name it.  Next came a new fan-campaign – take your candle on vacation, take a photo of Paul’s candles abroad and bring an image back for him.  People were taking his candles EVERYWHERE!  I took mine to Colorado, and New Mexico – it’s a great conversation starter.  Damn I forgot to take it to Bulgaria.  Oh well. There’s always the next European country.