Mijo Candle Co. Blends Culture, Identity, and Pride in the Heart of Indio

For many entrepreneurs, business is personal. But for Adolfo Vasquez and Vincent Sandoval, co-owners of Mijo Candle Co. in Indio, their candles are more than just handcrafted products—they’re symbols of identity, resilience, and cultural pride.

As a queer and Mexican couple, Adolfo and Vincent launched Mijo Candle Co. to fill a gap they noticed on store shelves. “You'd go into Crate & Barrel or Target, and you really didn't see Hispanic candles,” said Sandoval. “There was a point of view missing.”

Their brand name, Mijo—a term of endearment used by their parents—reflects the heart of their mission: to honor their roots and create something that smells like home. Their scents are carefully curated, featuring cleaner ingredients while still offering a strong fragrance throw.

During Pride Month, their candles are doing more than spreading scent—they’re spreading visibility.

“I just didn’t have that door opened for me when I was younger,” said Vincent. “Now, as a business owner, it’s about being visible so others see that there are queer Latinos out there, and we’re here to stay.”

The duo, currently selling in local shops and markets, plans to open a brick-and-mortar store in Indio soon. For Vincent, a native of Indio, it's a way to give back to the city that raised him.

“It's about being proud of where you come from and who you are,” he said.

Mijo Candle Co. isn't just lighting candles—they're lighting the way for others to be seen, loved, and celebrated.

Explore: NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the Valley.