Today we’d like to introduce you to Tasheena Salmon.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Simple Pleasures Candle Co. was founded in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic a time when so many people were searching for comfort, peace, and hope within their own homes. Like many others, I found myself reflecting on the importance of creating spaces that promote calm, healing, and emotional well-being during uncertain times.
As a Social Worker with years of experience helping individuals navigate trauma, anxiety, depression, and life’s many challenges, I understood how powerful our environment can be in supporting mental wellness. That inspired me to combine my professional background with my love for candles and aromatherapy to create something meaningful.
Simple Pleasures Candle Co. was created to be more than a candle company. My vision was to create intentional experiences that encourage people to slow down, breathe deeply, practice self-care, and embrace moments of peace. Every handcrafted candle is made with premium ingredients and thoughtfully blended fragrances designed to evoke comfort, relaxation, and joy.
Since launching, the business has grown to include luxury retail candles as well as custom and wholesale collections for businesses, real estate professionals, weddings, corporate events, and special celebrations. It’s been incredibly rewarding to see our candles become part of people’s homes, milestones, and wellness routines.
Today, our mission remains the same as it was in 2020: to remind people that even in life’s most challenging seasons, healing, comfort, and joy can often be found in the simple pleasures.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I wouldn’t say it’s been a completely smooth road, but every challenge has shaped the business into what it is today.
After launching Simple Pleasures Candle Co. in 2020, I experienced encouraging growth and quickly realized there was a market for products that promote relaxation and wellness. However, by January 2023, I made the difficult decision to step away from the business. Life presented several personal challenges, and at the same time, I was focused on advancing my career. I recognized that I couldn’t pour into my customers if my own cup was empty, so I gave myself permission to pause, reset, and prioritize my personal well-being and professional development.
That season taught me an invaluable lesson: sometimes growth requires stepping back before moving forward. Rather than viewing the pause as a failure, I see it as an investment in becoming a stronger business owner and a healthier person.
In 2025, I proudly relaunched Simple Pleasures Candle Co. with renewed clarity, purpose, and vision. The experience gave me a deeper understanding of resilience and reinforced the very message my brand stands for that healing, rest, and restoration are essential, not optional.
Today, I approach my business with greater intention than ever before. Every challenge has strengthened my commitment to creating products that encourage others to slow down, care for themselves, and find peace in life’s simple pleasures.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I have dedicated my career to serving others through education, mental health, and community wellness. I’m especially proud of the diverse experiences that have allowed me to support people through different stages of life and personal growth.
I earned my Master of Social Work from New York University, where I deepened my passion for helping individuals overcome life’s challenges. Today, I specialize in mental health and substance use treatment and currently work at a medication-assisted treatment program, supporting individuals on their journey to recovery from opioid use disorder. It’s meaningful work that allows me to help people rebuild their lives with dignity, compassion, and hope.
Before transitioning into social work, I spent approximately 13 years in education within charter schools throughout New York City. During that time, I served in several roles, beginning as a classroom educator and eventually advancing into school leadership as a Dean of Students. Those years taught me the importance of leadership, relationship-building, and meeting people where they are skills that continue to shape my work today.
What I’m most proud of is my ability to connect with people from all walks of life and create spaces where they feel seen, heard, and supported. Whether I’m working with clients in recovery, leading a team, mentoring others, or creating products through Simple Pleasures Candle Co., my mission remains the same: to promote healing, resilience, and overall well-being.
I believe what sets me apart is the unique combination of my professional experience in education, social work, and entrepreneurship. Each role has strengthened my ability to serve others with empathy, authenticity, and purpose, allowing me to make a meaningful impact both professionally and through my business.
So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
There are several ways to work with, collaborate with, and support me, both professionally and through my business.
Through Simple Pleasures Candle Co., I partner with businesses, real estate professionals, event planners, nonprofits, and organizations to create custom luxury candles for client appreciation gifts, corporate events, employee recognition, weddings, and special occasions. I also offer wholesale opportunities for boutiques and retailers looking to carry products that promote wellness and relaxation.
Professionally, I’m always open to collaborating on initiatives centered around mental health, substance use recovery, wellness, self-care, and community education. Whether it’s speaking engagements, workshops, panel discussions, or community outreach events, I’m passionate about using my experience to educate, inspire, and support others.
The best way to support my work is by shopping with Simple Pleasures Candle Co., referring our products and services to others, sharing our mission on social media, and recommending us to businesses or organizations looking for meaningful, customized gifts. Every purchase and referral helps us continue our mission of bringing peace, healing, and joy into people’s everyday lives through the simple pleasures.
Pricing:
- Retail: $20 for each candle
- Whole prices vary
Contact Info:
- Website: https://thesimplepleasurescandle.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesimplepleasurescandle
