Meet Amber Epperson: Business Owner & Candle Maker

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

Hi Amber, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
Before I became an entrepreneur, my idea of work/life balance was making sure that I left work on time, limiting the amount of time I worked “off the clock”, and using all my vacation days. In the three years since I’ve started this company, learning how to balance my life with something that never turns off is almost laughable. When I first left my 9-5, I had two children and a fuzzy idea for how to start a business making candles. Now, I have 3 children -2 that are homeschooled thanks to COVID, a growing business, and no clock to punch in and out of. These days, I start each day asking God to set my path clearly so I only do the things that would allow me to be as productive and impactful as possible. I try to limit the amount of things I write on my to-do list. I also take joy in saying “No” to new projects and tasks that would throw off the little balance that I do have. I’m not where I need to be yet, but I think I’m heading in the right direction.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
The Common Scents Co is an artisan candle company that uses hand-poured candles to foster community. Through virtual events, we are able to strengthen community connections by handcrafting experiences uniquely designed for each customer. Because this business was started from my desire to be more impactful and purposeful, I combine my passion for this business and my inherent ability to create and cultivate relationships with people. As a result, I am uniquely positioned to create custom experiences tailored to each client. This guarantees a unique experience that differentiates us from other candle companies. 2020 wasn’t an easy year for anyone. Since the onset of COVID19, we are no longer able to operate the areas of our business that required in-person events which resulted in a decrease in revenue. In addition to being a solopreneur, I am also a mompreneur and COVID forced me into being a homeschool teacher during my working/business hours. We also have decreased access to supplies and inventory. Yet, even with the challenges, I’ve learned how resilient we are. Despite the loss of income, lack of access to supplies, decrease in services offered, decline in customers, and change in working structure because of balancing home schooling, I’ve been able to pivot to leverage technology to connect communities on a virtual platform. If 2020 did nothing else it taught me to live. Stop just “existing”. Make the most of every second. Find the beauty in every breath we’re gifted. Life is hard. But I want to be remembered for making someone’s life just a little bit brighter.

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.
Savannah, Georgia – aka C-Port – is the true hostess city of the south. It’s great for foodies, history buffs, and beach bums. Noted as one of the most haunted cities in the world, a hearse driven ghost tour is scheduled right after dinner at The Grey. Post dinner drinks while touring a vodka distillery before a sunset walk on River Street to walk the calories off. City Market is a great area for bar hopping, live entertainment, and late night dessert. After sleeping off such a busy night in a centuries old mansion turned bed & breakfast, sunrise yoga on Tybee Island is a great way to start a new day of adventure. The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I have an amazing tribe of women that are fellow business owners, mother, and wives. They not only understand the beautiful chaos that I live every day but they pour into me and allow me to do the same for them. A special shoutout to Lizzy Frazier of 33rd and Burroughs and Destiny Brewton of A House Called Hue. For all the advice, listening ears, shared resources, and encouragement, these women and so many others, are the true MVPs!

Website: https://www.ShopCommonScentsCo.com
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