Today we’d like to introduce you to Toni Porter.
Hi Toni, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My name is Toni Porter, I’m a mom and entrepreneur. I became an official business owner after being laid off from my job. I was also in college at the same time, in need of extra money. The economy wasn’t the greatest and lots of layoffs were occurring across MI. I’ve always burned candles to relax but was having difficulty finding a good brand that smelled good. My god mom started making them as a hobby and I loved them. So, I started selling them at the local hospital where I worked.
When I got laid off, I asked my godmother if she wanted to go into business together. I was pursuing a business management degree from Wayne State University, at that time. However, she was also already an entrepreneur and wasn’t ready to start another business on a full-time basis. So I asked her if she would teach me, and the rest has been history ever since. Toni’s Collection started in 2012, but I officially had to take the leap of faith on my own in 2013 after being laid off.
Toni’s Collection specializes in luxury home fragrance products! Handcrafted, eco-friendly, and triple-scented! Over 30 exclusive fragrance options to choose from in Toni’s Collection! Our candles are made with our proprietary blend of soy wax. We carry 4oz fragrance veils of mist that are perfect for use as a travel-size air freshener or fabric/linen mist! Our wax tarts are perfect if you prefer flameless products. Just break off a couple of cubes and put them in your warmer. And our oil extracts are perfect for diffusers & humidifiers.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I wish there was a such thing as an easy path or smooth road on this entrepreneurship journey, but it’s not. One of the biggest challenges I faced, has just been having working capital or finding lenders. As an entrepreneur, funding is limited to small businesses. You have to seek nontraditional options or exhaust investing your funds.
As a smaller business, the price breaks aren’t available unless you are buying in larger quantities wholesale, which is intimidating when you are first starting if funding is limited. A huge challenge has also been marketing/advertising. You either need to have a nice budget or learn how to do it on your own. I always say that you can have a great product, but if no one knows about it, it won’t sell.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
I have endured many ups & downs over the last 10 years. I have a passion for creating products that are amazing aromatic experiences and relaxing. I have cried many nights but awakened each day striving for my dreams. It’s been hard, but more than worth it. My biggest accomplishment was the purchase of my commercial building. What makes me proud is my customers, who continuously buy my products and tell others to support me. I’m so glad I didn’t quit & kept reinvesting in my business to make it grow.
We have also incorporated candle-making for our customers with our Sip & Scents Sessions, for those who are looking for a special date night idea, girls’ night activity, or even kids crafting session. It’s a really fun way to learn how to make candles and just a new experience in Detroit. You bring your libations and light bites, we provide the space and supplies needed for your candle-making session.
What makes you happy?
Life makes me happy! The fact that I wake up each day with another chance to achieve my dreams and goals makes me happy. I’m trying to create opportunities for myself and others.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.TonisCollection.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/toniscollection/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TonisCollection
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/TonisCollection
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/toniscollection313
- Other: https://linktr.ee/toniscollection
