Breath, Light and the Small Rituals That Shape SOJO
Atelier Conversations today introduces Iveta Krausová, the creative soul behind SOJO — a wellbeing brand rooted in scent, presence and the quiet art of daily rituals. Her world is shaped by attention to detail: the reflection of light in glass, the warmth of a flame, the softness of a breath that brings her back to the moment. After three weeks on Mallorca, where citrus-filled air and pink evening skies awakened a new wave of inspiration, she now dreams of a spring–summer collection infused with the island’s warmth and clarity.
As SOJO shifts from a candle brand toward a broader wellbeing concept, Iveta explores new forms of self-love and sensory calm — from herbal teas to soaps and small lifestyle pieces that carry intention. Her creative process is intuitive and a little chaotic, yet held by rituals that ground her: yoga, breathwork, quiet walks, and the joy of discovering the world with her daughter.
This conversation opens the door into her universe of scent, light, notes of warmth — and the kind of inspiration that arrives quietly, one inhale at a time.
With winter approaching, SOJO introduces its seasonal candle Kouzlo — a warm blend of cinnamon, clove, and citrus that captures the essence of the holidays. A scent that fills the room with comfort and brightness, inviting you to slow down and enjoy the magic of the season.
“Creativity begins when everything around me slows down.”
When was the last time something moved you so deeply that you thought: I need to transform this into my work?
Recently, during holiday in Mallorca. I was struck by the island’s energy the air smelled of citrus and the sea, and every evening the sky turned pink. I would love to release a spring/summer collection inspired by Mallorca. I already have ideas for a citrus candle, wide colourful trousers, a silk scarf, or incense sticks.
Which colour or texture best describes your current mood — and why?
Something between orange and gold. The colour of autumn, the colour of a burning candle. It holds calm, certainty and warmth.
What helps you reconnect with yourself when you get lost in your own creative process?
Breathwork helps me slowing down. Becoming present through yoga. Or I go for a walk in nature; in autumn everything feels especially magical and inspiring.
What fascinates you at the moment — in life, in light, in people, in details?
I’m fascinated by details and presence. I notice small things we usually overlook — the reflection of light in glass, the flame of a candle, the smell of fresh coffee. Sometimes you just need to slow down and look around.
Is there a place you return to when you need to feel creative energy again?
I have places I love returning to, like Copenhagen or Mallorca. But lately I’ve been trying to visit new places and look for new inspiration there.
What does your creative chaos look like, and how do you keep balance within it?
Creative chaos describes me perfectly, even though people see me as calm and grounded. I love the moments when ideas for new products and the future of the brand appear — the feeling when everything around pauses and I fall into a pure creative flow. My process is intuitive and chaotic, but that chaos gives me freedom and inspiration. I jump from idea to idea, note everything down, and these fragments slowly form a whole that starts to make sense.
If you could exhibit one single piece that speaks for everything you do, which one would it be?
It would be the basic trio of candles that I created at the very beginning of the brand — Sebeláska, Tady a Teď, and Neboj se snít. Their themes remain just as relevant to me even after more than four years.
What is your favourite ritual that has nothing to do with creating?
Time with my daughter Klaudia. When we go for a walk to the park or the playground, I switch off completely and enjoy the joy of discovering the world with her.
What does it mean to you to be an artist in 2025?
Being an artist today means finding balance between creating and presenting yourself on social media — without losing authenticity.
What does your ideal work-free Sunday look like?
A Sunday where I don’t have to do anything. Part of the day spent outside, walking for good coffee and food. In the evening: a warm bath, a candle and a good book.
Which film, book or song is accompanying you at the moment?
Swimmers by Zero 7 and Jem Cooke — there is something calm and deep in it.
SOJO
SOJO was born from a simple yet intentional vision by its founder Iveta Krausová: to create natural soy candles with essential oils that help people pause, breathe, and return to themselves. She believes that a fulfilled life begins with self-love and the ability to appreciate the present moment — a philosophy reflected in every product she makes. As a mother to little Klaudia, Iveta understands the quiet power of small rituals and infuses this tenderness into the entire brand.
Each candle is hand-poured in the Czech Republic with great care and respect for nature. SOJO uses 100% natural soy wax — biodegradable, clean-burning, and long-lasting — blended with pure essential oils. Every candle passes through Iveta’s hands, from choosing scents and wicks to pouring, labeling, and packaging.
The brand is rooted in local craftsmanship and sustainability. Materials are sourced from Czech suppliers, SOJO minimizes waste, avoids unnecessary packaging, and repurposes shipping materials whenever possible. The glass vessels can be washed and reused, underscoring the brand’s mindful approach to consumption.