Special Agent

[spesh-uhl ey-juhnt]

adjective

Someone who embodies the spirit of truth, authenticity, and ingenuity. They live in their potential, embracing their unique gifts and shining a light to consciously create a better world. As an Agent of beauty and inspiration, they are admired by our founder, Jena Covello.

Meet Special Agent, Zahra Ayub. The LA-based entrepreneur is the founder of 1986, a luxury home brand that creates the most exquisite hand-carved marble and onyx candles. The objets d'art are designed to be reusable and refillable and come with lids that double as ashtrays or incense holders. Thoughtfully crafted, Zahra's candles are formulated with organic coconut oil and essential oils for a clean, chemical-free burn. If you're feeling extra indulgent, Zahra's most recent masterpiece is a massive made-to-order candle that doubles as an accent table. 

Name: Zahra Ayub 

Instagram: @zahra_ayub

Daily Uniform: It depends on where I am. Currently, I am in London and it's quite cold, so I dress very cozy and comfortably. I'm rotating between Loro Piana cashmere sweats and Brandy Melville sweats (I love them so much and have them in every color), with a tank top, Les Tien hoodie, and Nike sneakers. I also rotate between a black Prada puffer jacket or a Chanel ski jacket and fur Chanel earmuffs. If I'm in LA, my routine is pretty different. I make an effort to put together a comfortable fit as I have to make factory runs and manage shipments.

AM ritual: I usually wake up and pray, have a coffee, and speak to my mum and sister.

PM wind down: Shower/bath, snacks, and usually watch something.

Something that puts you in a good mood: Music, my nephews, my loved ones, food, a glass of red wine, humor, good conversation, my herb garden, vintage finds, flea markets, and cuddles.

Something that's inspiring you at the moment: Honesty.

Best advice you've ever received: I've received a lot of great advice over the years, but currently, the best is when people show you who they are, believe them.

A wellness expert who has significantly helped you: My mom has always been into holistic natural remedies before it was popular. It was a cultural thing for us. I listen to my body and live a balanced life as much as possible.

Favorite wellness/beauty treatment: Celluma light therapy, radiofrequency facials, and water water water.

Go-to stress remedy: I'm still working on this one, taking suggestions! I don't deal well with stress, initially. I'll speak to my sister and my close friend Raquelle, and they will both remind me to surrender to God, and then I'm fine.

Supplements you can't live without: Agent Nateur holi (mane) and this excellent company out of the UK called Rejuvenated. Their supplements are amazing. I take the H30 Night Repair. I swear I wake up with great skin. It genuinely works for me.

Three things you're really into right now: I'm always into vintage, growing my business, and looking and feeling healthy. 

Top three favorite shops: This one is tough. Rellik, a vintage shop in London, I always find great pieces. Selfridges always, and Recess in LA also has great vintage.

Top three favorite Instagram accounts: @1986home, @thehoodhealer. @ateliervime.

Go-to for inspiration: Road trips, flea markets, nature, and walks.

Your ultimate indulgence: Food and interiors.

Must-have Agent Nateur product: holi (mane), the cleansing face oil feels amazing, the ageless body oil, and eye serum.