What began as a way to unwind from the rigors of work and raising a family has evolved into a second career for Jenn and Tim Ward. They’re the founders and makers at House Of Wards, a craft candle, jewelry, and woodworking business based out of their home on the edge of Bellevue.
“Tim was taking special requests from friends for his woodworking products,” says Jenn. “And I have a candle-obsession. I know what I like so I started making my own and thought, ‘Why don’t I add them to what Tim is doing?’ And it works seamlessly.”
They still have their day jobs. Jenn is director of product development at Tractor Supply Company, Tim is regional operations manager for an environmental engineering and consulting firm. But as Jenn says, “That’s from 9 to 5. House Of Wards is 6 to midnight.”
The workshop is an escape for Tim who admits that, in the early going, it was difficult to put the items he created up for sale. “My favorite part of the entire process is putting the finishing touches on the product and seeing how it looks in the light,” he says. “I can’t tell you the number of times I’ve gone to Jenn and said, ‘Look at this!’ When I have a pretty piece of walnut and the grain is really striking, that’s what keeps me going.”
From colors and scents to finishes and packaging, the Wards create products that they use in their own home. They describe the aesthetic as “modern, masculine, woodsy and neutral.”
And these days, the Ward children are getting in on the act as son Brennan and daughter June have their own candle line, called Lulubee, under the House Of Wards umbrella. “They were integral in the design, picked their own scents and they donate their proceeds to (charity),” says Jenn.
House Of Wards products are authentic, locally-made and sourced gifts that residents and visitors will enjoy. They're available throughout the area, including Joshua Brown Family Pharmacy in Bellevue. A complete list of retail locations, product information and an online store are available at HouseOfWards.co.
When I have a pretty piece of walnut and the grain is really striking, that’s what keeps me going.”