Today we’d like to introduce you to Rekieshia Norton-Forrest.
Rekieshia, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
As an avid candle lover, I would always hit the big sales at the major candle companies like BBW and stock up for the whole year. One day I said to my husband, “Instead of giving my money to the big names, why don’t I just start to make my own candles.” He told me to go for it. Three months late, here I am with my very own candle business, with over 300 candles sold.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Of course, there have been days when I have wanted to just give up altogether, but then I remember how much time I have invested into making J.J.L. Candle Co. a successful business. I remind myself everyday that it won’t be all peaches and cream. Every business has moments when you may not get a sale for a week or two, but it doesn’t mean that your business is not going to prosper and be successful. It’s all about having the drive to keep pushing and putting your brand out for everyone to see.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the J.J.L. Candle story. Tell us more about the business.
Our inspiration for creating our soy candles and wax melts comes from a love for our black culture. Each candle is hand-poured in small batches using only the cleanest fragrances. Every candle is named to represent either a song, TV show, movie, or phrase. At J.J.L. Candle Co., we offer four candle collections (Signature, Melanin, Luxury Tax, and House Party). We literally have a candle for everyone.
As a female, small business owner, I am most proud of the fact that I am able to have a company to represent not only my black culture but also a company that I can include and build for my children. Without Jaylen, Julian. and Leilani, there would be no J.J.L. Candle Co. What sets us apart from others is that every candle and wax melt will, in some way, bring back great memories of growing up listening to old school R&B, watching your favorite UPN show on Monday nights, or just hanging out with your friends trying to get in to see that movie that everyone’s talking about.
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
I wouldn’t say it was luck. More than ever, having faith and believing has played a major role. I know that I am destined to have a great business and life. Whatever purpose it is that God has already planned out for me and this business is already in motion.
Pricing:
- Our candles start at $14 and up
- Wax melts ($6)
Contact Info:
- Website: www.jjlcandlecompany.com
- Phone: 954-247-8147
- Email: rekieshia@jjlcandlecompany.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/jjlcandle
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/jjlcandlecompany
- Twitter: www.twitter.com/jjlcandleco1
- Other: www.pinterest.com/jjlcandlecompany
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