PSquare Scents is a local University supplier offering handmade home, bath and body products. This unique business was started by owner Paul Barnard who was originally from Ohio but has lived in Pittsburgh for over 14 years. In 2003, he initially sold his products online and at small craft shows which led to the opening of a brick-and-mortar shop in Bellevue, PA in 2019. PSquare Scents also has a booth at the Pitt Farmers Market, which provides a great opportunity for folks to check out these local products.
Highlight features of the local shop are its refillery department and candle bar. The refillery department embodies PSquare Scent’s sustainability initiatives by allowing customers to bring in their own bath and body containers and refill them by the ounce to lower waste. It also provides several reusable candle jars that can be brought back in to refill. The candle bar offers the fun experiences of making your own candles anytime, and you can even book a private party!
When asked what the story behind the business was, Paul took us through his experience with being allergic to many national brand name items. This led to his mission of creating cleaner versions of products such as candles, soaps, incense, cleaners and more. The Pittsburgh local said that his cleaner options don’t give him the headaches he’s experienced from other products.
PSquare Scents originally started out with 40 fragrances and 3 main items: candles, incense and soap. They now make over 100+ different items and use over 400 rotating clean fragrances. Paul noted that they are always having fun in finding new items and scents to make and says, “we love making novelty items that have a practical use.”
Sounds like there’s something for everyone!
Beyond the clean handmade products, PSquare Scents is committed to giving back when possible. Paul refers to the fundraisers they do throughout the year with local schools, churches, nonprofits and more to help support the local community. PSquare Scents also donates to special causes with departments here at Pitt. Local products supporting the local community? You love to see it!
PSquare Scents just might be the perfect place to find your gifts this holiday season or your new favorite home goods year-round. Be sure to stop by the store in Bellevue or see all PSquare Scents has to offer on their website.