We recently connected with Tosha Blackon and have shared our conversation below.
Tosha, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Some of the most interesting parts of our journey emerge from areas where we believe something that most people in our industry do not – do you have something like that?
The most common thing I have heard and still hear from time to time is that the market is “saturated” with a lot of candle makers and your business won’t be successful. Once a person finds their niche in their industry, it does not matter how many other people are doing it. For me, I decided to just focus on my business and building a brand that represented who I am and created a product to match what market I wanted to introduce my brand to. Throughout the past 3 years, I have had unfortunate circumstances that caused me to put things on hold but I truly believe when God has blessed you with gifts and talents, no matter what happens, those things will always be there, and making candles is mine. Fear of being “lost in the sauce” is something that stands out in this market because there are so many different brands to choose from with candles but my brand and products speak for themselves. So it doesn’t matter how many different brands there are, when you have been blessed to do something, it will always stand out. I have always spoken positive affirmations over my business and I don’t focus on other brands, I am just consistent with mine. Do I get discouraged at times, absolutely but I don’t give up or quit because I never know what is around the corner waiting for me, what phone call I may receive, email, or contract. Throughout this journey, I have learned patience, consistency, presentation, and loyalty to myself and my brand. When I show up for myself, I show up for my clients and customers, and they receive the greatest product I have because my heart is in it.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
As a nurse and mother, health and safety are my first priority. All of my products are created with Coco Apricot and 100% Soy Wax Candles that are both clean and non-toxic and are safe to burn in your home. All candles are Phthalate, Vanillin, and Skin Safe. I offer wholesale and private labels services for those who desire to have a candle business. I also provide private parties for bridal showers, date nights, corporate parties, etc. If candle making is involved, I can do it. I am most proud of my being able to create custom gifts for my favorite music artists, reality tv couples, and a few well-known artists in the Atlanta, GA area.
What I want my potential clients/followers/fans to know about my brand is that the products speak for themselves. Although they are created the same, each candle stands alone with its own fragrance. I offer custom scents for special occasions or for those who just want something different that what the market has to offer.
It is my desire to continue developing products of quality that you will enjoy years to come. When lighting their candle for the first time or the last, the love and care, a lingering fragrance is always my first and lasting impression. It is my desire to take them to a different place and on an adventure with every candle. “It’s a Vibe In A Jar.”
Alright – let’s talk about marketing or sales – do you have any fun stories about a risk you’ve taken or something else exciting on the sales and marketing side?
After being laid off for the 2nd time, I decided to approach the candle industry a little differently this time because I wanted to truly find my place to make a bold and lasting statement this time around. I am a huge Jazz/R&B fan and reached out to the manager of my favorite artist just to send a gift following his recent concert at The House Of Blues. To my surprise he responded and I was able to share my craft with the artist and his Management Team. I was also blessed enough to do the same with another well-known female artist and 2 business women/reality couples from the hit show, “Put A Ring On It” Season 4. It’s definitely been a blessing to share my heart with them by way of candles. This was my way of stepping out on faith as well as taking a risk in marketing my brand to the level I desire to see my brand.
Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?
I feel my presentation and product speaks for itself in relation to my reputation in the market. I always say, “if it has my name on it, it has to speak luxury.” My colors are black and gold which for me represents elegance and luxury. It is always my goal to perfect my brand and continue to build from my reputation I had prior to my decision to change my business name to a more form fitting brand that represents who I am now and the clientele and niche I have a desire to reach. Overall, it has been my branding and representation that has helped me stand out in the market.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.scentualscentscandleco.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/scentualcandlesco
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/scentualscentscandleco
- Tiktok: www.tiktok.com/@scentualscentscandlesco