We had the good fortune of connecting with Scottlyn Marie and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Scottlyn, what’s the end goal, career-wise?
Everyone has their own definition of success and what it means for them to feel like they have made it or that they’ve reached that success level. Early on, I always thought my definition was flashy cars, big fancy houses, a lot of money and this lavish lifestyle. I remember, my prayer to God was to increase my finances, meet a guy who is super rich and will spoil and take care of me and to be like the women I see on tv and in movies. After starting a business from scratch and really connecting with myself and finding myself, none of those things are my definition anymore. With starting my own business, I’ve been able to help others in need, encourage and inspire other young black girls , and give back to my community. Doing those things, have become my new definition of success. Where I want to be when everything is said and done, is to not just love a financially free life and make sure my family is taken care of but I also want to help others be on that same journey. Professionally , I don’t want to be just the lady who sells candles and have my storefront and for WAXSY Candle Co. to be known worldwide but also want to be the BLACK WOMAN who is a mentor, a teacher, an inspiration and to be an influential person to change the narrative that black women and men can have luxury and better spending habits. Overall my end goal is to be in pillar in my community and to make a difference.
What should our readers know about your business?
I am the owner and founder of a luxury candle company, WAXSY Candle Co. based in Atlanta, Ga. All of our candles and products are hand crafted using coconut wax and natural products. WAXSY was started because I wanted to do something out of the ordinary and I never really heard of too many black owned luxury candle companies and I definitely wanted to change the narrative and representation. I suffered from depression and anxiety and also needed an outlet to express myself, so I started making candles to help alleviate. This was my first real business venture is had no idea what to really expect so ive been challenges since the first day I’ve launched. Ranging from shipping issues, chargebacks, pricing, you name it and ive probably faced the challenge. To this day, im still figuring things and I didnt have all the answers but the way that I face my challenges and conquer them is to keep going and find a solution. No problem is bigger than my vision and dream of WAXSY being where I want it to be and I understand that I will face challenges everyday but they are all lessons that I learn from and not stop signs that keep me down. One thing I want people to know about my brand and my story is that we are honest and transparent. Our customers are watching us build a platform and brand that resonates with many others and get to see not just the good but the challenges as well. I want other young entrepreneurs to take that from me, that you don’t have to have it all figured out in order to be successful or make a difference. Things will more than likely look ROUGH in the beginning but just keep going and be honest with yourself at all times.
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.
Living in Atlanta, there is always something to do and somewhere to have fun. There are so man black owned lounges and restaurants in East Atlanta that I’d recommend , such as , The Beverly and Fletchers if you want to eat good and network. If you are looking to party and live life to the fullest, you should go to Oak lounge or Members Only (ask for Sophia). There are always different activities going on in the city and many places to look, such as Edgewood bars , Glenwood Bars, or Little Five Points.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
So many people have been alongside of this journey and I couldn’t be nowhere near where I am without them. Ive always wanted to win an Academy Award, so I’ll treat this as my acceptance speech. First and foremost, I’d like to thank God for instilling me with strength, resilience and the opportunities that align themselves with me . My mom and my family: Thank you for always reminding me of home and supporting me beyond measures. My Soul Sister, Noelle: Thank You for always pouring into me and pushing me to be my best self. My WAXSYBABES ! None of this would be possible without your continuous support and love. THANK YOU ! Lastly, I want to thank myself. Very few times, we forget to give ourselves our own credit and pat on the back. I am proud of my determination and strength. There have been so many things that have tried to break me but I have continued to remind myself of my worth and self love. I am proud of how I don’t give up or be someone I am not. I am proud of my heart, she’s been broken many times but I continue to love and pour into others.
Website: www.WaxsyCandleCompany.com
Instagram: www.Instagram.com/ShopWaxsyCandles
Twitter: www.twitter.com/shopwaxsy
Facebook: www.facebook.com/waxsycandleco