Smell of Victory candle sparks new partnership

In January 2021, NMSU and Kreative Candle Co. launched Pistol Pete’s Smell of Victory candle, the latest in NMSU’s growing line of collegiate-licensed products. Candles are available for purchase at kreativecandleco.com and several Las Cruces businesses, including The Bean Café, Kind Bread Bakery, FARMesilla and the Las Cruces Farmers and Crafts Market. A portion of the proceeds will support NMSU’s more than 400 student-athletes.

“Our partnership with a small New Mexico business, Kreative Candle Co. and CEO Kiandra Davis will be a win-win for her company and Aggie athletics,” says Mario Moccia, NMSU’s Director of Athletics.

“To be able to partner with New Mexico State University to create a custom candle is a dream come true, because I’m a huge Aggie fan,” Davis says. “I'm so grateful to be able to showcase my candles to the Aggie family and bring a unique aroma to so many homes.”

The candle has hints of apple, cinnamon, vanilla and butter, infused with natural essential oils of cinnamon leaf and mandarin. Candles are hand-poured in-house with paraffin wax and top-quality ingredients.