We had the good fortune of connecting with Blaque(Blake) W and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Blaque(Blake), can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Let’s call it a journey to starting my businesses because it has been an interesting ride.

In 2010 I started my college career at THE Norfolk State University in Norfolk VA. I have always had an entrepreneurial mindset, so I started as an entrepreneurship major. I quickly realized my interest in business was far more than just entrepreneurship, so I switched to business management. During my college career I made a name for myself doing hair (Thats all I knew how to do, and I was good at it). I was in my dorm doing sew ins for $65, blowouts for $50, and eventually Marley twists (you name it I probably did it).

My senior year of college I took a speech class, and our final project was to write on an issue within our community or industry. My speech was on the state of the black business. That research highlighted the need for black entrepreneurs like me who were fortunate enough to attend college. I realized that it isn’t just a lack of capital that limits our business success, it is our business education. I want to bridge that gap. We have the ideas; in some cases, we have the funding however knowing how to run a business is what we often overlook. We are always seeing “Girl Boss” conventions, but rarely are these conventions actually teaching entrepreneurship, they only provide inspiration.

In 2016 I enrolled into my MBA program in small business data analytics because I knew ultimately, I want to open a business consultation firm within my industry that provides clients with tangible resources to be successful business owners.

By 2017, wigs had become the norm and my interest in learning how to make them sparked. I randomly took a wig class from Aisha Tooks aka Tailored Crowns, (may she rest peacefully), and from there my hair business was started. Aisha took me under her wing, invested in my business and even helped me decide on how I wanted to brand myself in the wig community. Thus “The Crown Creator” was birthed and trademarked. Under this brand I have taught over 100 students how to make wigs and how to start their business, majority of them are still servicing clients till this day.

In 2021 my focus shifted during my own journey to self-care and a more mentally fit me. I took a step back from the wig making and I started my candle business named “Blaque Candle Co” (pronounced Black, although my name is pronounced Blake). My candle business highlights self-care and black luxury. We have been conditioned not to participate or enjoy these things and I hope through this business I am able to inspire others to realize that taking care of you has to be first priority.

I am what you call a serial entrepreneur. These two businesses are only the beginning.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I started my career as an Analyst for the Department of Defense in 2020. In a time where the world was filled with so much grief and uncertainty, God blessed me with a new career.

The journey to this career was certainly not easy and I would probably need a 10-part Netflix original to fit it all in but in short it may not have been easy; however, every single part of my journey was necessary.

Overcoming challenges is about remembering you are living in at least 1 answered prayer. I can sometimes fall short of being grateful, because I’m focused on where I want to be or where I feel like I should be when in actuality I am exactly where I need to be in this moment.

I want anyone who had a hard upbringing, a not so easy 20’s, those still feeling like you don’t have the hang of it to know that it is OKAY! It does get better! I am 30 years old and for the first time in life, this is the happiest and most at peace I have been. I know saying “keep going” is so cliché,,,,,,but seriously keep going.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I moved to DC during the pandemic, so everything was closed! I’m still learning the gems of the city since DC has so much to offer!

DC is always a good time though! One thing I love is the culture. Me and my friends will always start at one place and before we know it its 2am and we have gone to 30 different places! Some of my favorite spots are 1942, The Gathering Spot, Nellies, Local wineries (too many to name), Harlot, The Wharf & The National Harbor. If they have good food and drinks, I am 100% there.

On the Maryland side the downtown staple that has me in a chokehold Society Lounge, it’s the jerk wings! You have to try it ! BusBoys & Poets is another gem!

I have a list of places to try from tiktok so I’m sure in a few weeks I will have much more to name.

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 would like to recognize my cousin Hadassah. There has not been a business idea she hasn’t helped with. I am terrible at being decisive but sis will sit and talk me through every single idea (even when I change my mind 50times). We dont live in the same city, however she still helps however she can.

There isn’t anything she hasn’t been present for whether good or bad (she is literally my first friend; we are friends from the womb lol). My story includes her, her encouragement has gotten me through a lot over the years and if she never knew how much I appreciate her I hope she does now.

Website: www.blaquecandleco.com and www.thetotalglamexperience.com

Instagram: @blaquecandleco and @xthecrowncreator

Other: Tiktok @blaquecandleco @xthecrowncreator

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutAtlanta is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.