Meet Stella and The KAT + GIO Difference

Meet Award-Winning Designer Stella Mazza

Hi, I'm Stella Mazza, founder, designer, and artisan behind KAT + GIO Crystal Candles.

Creativity has been at the heart of my life for more than four decades. Since launching my first company, Stella's Bridal, in Winnipeg, Manitoba, in 1984, I have spent my career transforming ideas into beautiful, handcrafted creations.

My work has received international recognition, including awards in Swarovski Crystallized Elements design competitions in both Arizona and New York, where I placed in the top five among hundreds of designers from around the world.

In 2011, one of my most cherished accomplishments was having a handcrafted French beaded floral tribute bouquet I designed accepted as a gift for the royal couple following the wedding of Catherine and William. This moment remains one of the proudest milestones of my creative career.

Throughout my creative journey, I have always been inspired by the process of creating beautiful objects that tell a story. Whether designing bridal fashions, crystal art, or handcrafted décor, my passion has always been the same: creating meaningful pieces that bring beauty and joy into people's lives.

 

After decades of working in design, my creative curiosity led me in an unexpected direction.

I had always been drawn to the beauty of raw crystals, the calming glow of candlelight, and the restorative qualities of natural fragrance. One day I began to wonder if these elements could be combined into something entirely unique.

That simple question sparked a journey that would eventually become KAT + GIO.

 

The Birth of KAT + GIO

In 2017, after extensive research and product development, I began creating what would become KAT + GIO Crystal Candles.

I spent countless hours researching ingredients, testing materials, and experimenting with designs. Along the way, I was surprised to discover how many candles were made with toxic ingredients, including paraffin wax and synthetic fragrances.  I wanted to create a luxury candle that combined natural ingredients, artisan craftsmanship, and the beauty of genuine crystals.

 

After months of testing waxes, fragrances, crystal placement, and candle performance, I developed my own signature crystal candle design.

The response from customers was immediate, and KAT + GIO was born.

Named after my daughters, Katrina and Giovanna, KAT + GIO reflects the values that inspire everything I create: beauty, craftsmanship, family, and intention.

Today, every candle is still carefully designed and handcrafted in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.

 

More Than a Candle

At KAT + GIO, we believe everyday objects can become meaningful works of art.

Every candle is thoughtfully designed to create an experience—one that combines beautiful fragrance, warm candlelight, natural crystals, and elegant design.

Our candles are created to become part of your daily rituals, whether you're relaxing after a long day, creating a peaceful atmosphere at home, celebrating a special occasion, or simply enjoying a quiet moment for yourself.

The goal has never been to create just another candle.

The goal has always been to create something beautiful enough to be displayed, meaningful enough to be gifted, and enjoyable enough to become part of everyday life.

My Motto: TO LIVE YOUR AUTHENTIC CREATIVE LIFE, YOU MUST LOSE THE FEAR OF BEING WRONG 😊

Why KAT + GIO Crystal Candles Are Different

Unlike mass-produced candles, every KAT + GIO candle is handcrafted in small batches with attention to every detail.

Our luxury crystal candles feature:

• Natural crystal gemstones

• Premium fragrances and essential oils

• Organic crackling wood wicks

• Clean-burning crystallized palm wax

• Reusable luxury glassware

• Elegant gift-ready packaging

Each candle is individually poured, finished, inspected, and packaged by hand.

The result is a luxury crystal candle that is both beautiful and functional—a unique combination of artisan craftsmanship and home décor.