We had the good fortune of connecting with Candi Nicholls and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Candi, every day, we about how much execution matters, but we think ideas matter as well. How did you come up with the idea for your business?
It came about as a case of necessity I had to go to The Sandy Lane Gold Cup which is the biggest race day of the year here in Barbados.

As a fashionista I wanted to make a statement but realized I had no headwear for the occasion. A local designer who I reached out to for assistance, told me to make something.

She encouraged me and had all faith that I could whip something together in a few hours. I made a fascinator and it was a hit. The following year, I tried a different technique and wore another creation. I was photographed by the local newspaper, seen by the who’s who, and CandiFab was born. I started getting orders for every fancy race day, tea parties, weddings, Easter, anything that requires headwear or little lift. Now all the fashionistas in Barbados and the region wear my headwear.

Fun fact: my first semester in college we had to make packaging for our (make believe) store, I made a hat box. My store sold hats and was called ‘and here we are today!

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
CandiFab is a brand of Millinery. Each piece is bespoke and I take pride in that. The Men’s line CandiMan by CandiFab which I am just about to launch, is a dream I have had since the beginning of my career in headwear. I love Menswear, and my muse John, was a huge inspiration. He loves hats! (There is one style named after him, as a form of gratitude, named the ‘JR’).  The beauty of my men’s line is that you can get exactly what you want and, a hat to fit your head as it’s made just for the individual.

I am proud to be the only Milliner in the Caribbean. I am also proud that not only do all the Parliamentary representatives wear my headwear here in Barbados, but also, the first lady of St. Lucia. She wore one of my fascinators to meet Prince Charles when he visited their island.
I got to where I am today by faith, hard work and encouragement by my Tribe and lovely clients. It wasn’t easy because a headpiece is not something people need daily. I had many orders cancelled due to covid and people staying indoors.
I have learned that not everyone likes headwear, and that’s ok.

What I want the world to know is that every CandiFab headpiece and CandiMan hat is made with love by me. Each one is bespoke and presently, made in the Caribbean.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Wow…So many… I would have to take them to Carlisle Bay and Harrysmith beach. Two different coasts, different terrain but both beautiful and a must see.

I would drive them over to the East Coast of the island. One of my fave spots to sit, relax and think.

Food. Definitely Animal Flower Cave for the breadfruit tacos, the view and the hospitality. Sea Shed, probably my fave spot on the island. Rum Stop for a great local meal with good drinks. Relish, run by the amazing Chef Michael Hinds. The Local and Co, with their menu of all local ingredients and the kitchen is headed by UK Chef Sophie Mitchell. I love Cocktail Kitchen and Cuz for his fish cutters.
Barbados has beautiful beaches but it’s nice to get around to local dive bars (rum shops) like John Moore Bar on the West and Uncle Joe’s in the East.
Speightstown is also a fave of mine as it’s so quaint. I love Barbados.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would like to shout out the amazing artist and talent Kraig Yearwood who told you about me. His art is amazing but I am a big fan of his line called ‘stuff’.

x

Website: www.candifab.com

Instagram: CandiFab

Linkedin: Candi Nicholls

Twitter: Bajan Candi

Facebook: CandiFab

Other: Email iamcandifab@gmail.com Tel (246)247-0233

Image Credits:
Photo #3. Kenneth Payne Photo #7. HoneyJam

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutMiami is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.