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

Hi DeSheria, what role has risk played in your life or career?

In everyday life, you have to take risk. I grew up in a two parent household where my parents made it their goal to ensure my siblings and I lived a life that they didn’t have. I watched my parents both work tirelessly for corporate America to finally retire and provide the life they said they would for their family. I would say, my parents were more calculated risk takers; always weighing the pros and cons of the risk before they took that leap. Sometimes those decisions worked out or made them miss out on opportunities. Growing up, watching my parents be more calculated in their risks, instilled those same qualities into me.

It wasn’t until two years ago that I thought I’d do something different. Something that I haven’t really seen much happen in my family, start my own business. If you asked me 5 years ago if I thought I would be the owner of a Luxury Candle Line, I would have told you “Absolutely Not!”. It was my determination to succeed and do what made me happy that pushed me to take this risk. Eight months into business, I can say, this decision I made to bet on myself has led to a challenging, yet rewarding journey. I started this business not only for myself but for the generations that will come behind me. My business is named after my nieces. Layla Madison and Anaya Grayce. I decided to name my business after my nieces to set an example for them and anyone else that may be questioning taking that risk to go for it. Take that risk for you! Regardless of the outcome, there is always a lesson to be learned and can change your life forever.

What should our readers know about your business?

Some people base their preference in candle purely on scent or maybe the aesthetic. True candle lovers know that what is in your candle makes all the difference. Madison & Grayce Candles is an 100% Luxury Soy Wax based company who strives on providing organic, vegan, non toxin candles. Our wax has a longer, cleaner burn that won’t have all that black smoke when burned.

My passion and love for candles actually started when i moved into my condo. I enjoyed coming home to a place that smelled amazing every time i stepped foot inside. In addition to my love for candles, i also had a passion for everything natural and organic as i was going through my natural hair care journey. From there, Madison & Grayce was born.

The process was not easy and it took 2 years of giving up and starting all over again before i finally decided that i wasn’t going to let some melted wax, a few wicks and some fragrance oil stop me from being great. During the pandemic, i put my head down and went to work. Everything that i said i was going to do, i did it. The road has not be an easy road, yet it has been a rewarding one. Some of the lessons that i have learned along the way that i would share with any new or aspiring business owner is to focus on improvement instead of growth. Be patient with yourself. Start with the foundation, nurture, water it and watch grow from there.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?

There are so many people that deserve credit and recognition in my story. First and foremost, God. I thank him for taking me and leading me on this journey called life. I trust that he will continue to guide and push me in many areas of my life and business. My family have been an amazing support system during this process. My father has been my rock and my financial advisor, my mother has been there to help with candle making, my siblings have been my walking advertisements and my nieces have been my inspiration and drive to keep going. In addition to my family, my friends have been so helpful during this journey. From packaging up candles to sitting with me at pop up shops, they have been great! One of my good friends and Owner of Le Don Collection in Royal Oak, MI, have been an amazing supporter by allowing me to place my candles in his clothing store. The list goes on! Without these people in my circle i don’t know how Madison & Grayce would have come to life. Their constant encouragement and support means the world to me.

Website: MadisonGrayceCandles@gmail.com

Instagram: MadisonGrayceCandles

Facebook: Madison & Grayce Candles

Image Credits
Kenyawn Patterson

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