Meet Latoya Jenkins | Soy Wax Candle Maker

We had the good fortune of connecting with Latoya Jenkins and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi LaToya, every day, we about how much execution matters, but we think ideas matter as well. How did you come up with the idea for your business?
I was inspired to start Candle Lit Nights because like many people I tried to be all things for everyone which led me to become anxious. It seemed that the only time I could get my mind to rest was when I was outside on my balcony with my candle. I decided that just like me others needed that special reminder to take time out of there day for themselves.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Candle Lit Nights is a hand crafted soy candle business. I believe what sets me apart from others are my hand crafted scents. I honestly believe that no one has candles that smell the way mine does. I am most proud of the line that I recently produced called The Pieces of Me Collection in which I have included pajamas for my box sets. I recently went through a very public break up, and this collection is dedicated to the things and people in my life that I love. I got to where I am today by attending vendor events, word of mouth, and my ex. It has not been easy at all due to my social anxiety, but I understand that the reason for my candles is bigger than my anxieties. I have learned a lot of lessons throughout this year alone, but the biggest lesson would be to be hands on when it comes to the finances of the company. Something I want the world to know about my brand and story is that I made my first candle when I was 16 for my grandmother who encouraged me to learn more.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I would start the week on Monday and attending brunch at The Flying Biscuit or Maple Street Biscuit Cafe. From there we would visit Reedy River Falls and enjoy the sights. Tuesday I would take her for a manicure at The Diamond Queen. Afterwards we would have dinner and drinks at The Flat. Wednesday would be hiking at Paris Mountain and visit Second and Charles. Thursday would include yoga at Greenville Yoga. Healthy lunch at Green Fetish. Friday would be shopping at Reznables Boutique and cigars at Smokey Bluezz or Colabo. Saturday a massage at Hand and Stone dinner at Giannis. Sunday would be a day of rest and hiking.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would love to shout out my family who has always encouraged me to go after the things that I love, as well as a special shout out to Dee Carter and Nisa Nicole who showed me what being a woman in business looks like. Always being gracious and wanting others succeed.

Website: https://www.theofficialcandlelitnights.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/candlelitnights_?igsh=YmZqNTliZ3E4NHgx

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1A6YjsHxbV/

Image Credits
Image credits courtesy of Dollar Vision and New Lyfe Media