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

Hi Imari, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Growing up I was homeschooled and learning for me was only about 3-4 hours a day. The remainder of my free time was always spent learning new crafts. I have always been extremely creative and good with arts. Recently I relocated to another state and during this time I was pregnant. Being pregnant during the pandemic forced me to find things to do to keep busy since we were stuck in the house. I started making candles for myself because I loved the idea of creating my own fragrances. After I filled my home with handcrafted candles I began giving them away as gifts. All of my family and friends raved about how amazing my products were and they said I should sell them to others so they can enjoy them as well. I thought long and hard about it but I woke up one day and decided, why not? I started to spend time creating a website and different social media pages to promote my products prior to my launch date. To my suprise, one launch day I sold out of EVERYTHING. From that moment I began getting AMAZING reviews from others all over the world. I have shipped orders to the majority of the USA, Canada and even Germany. I have managed to secure several wholesale contracts and I am just beyond grateful. My family were my biggest supporters and I am so happy they gave me the push I needed to get Bleu Serenity in homes across the world.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I handcraft all natural products. My product list includes 100% all natural candles, Lotion candles, wax melts, fragrance sprays, carpet fresheners as well as handcrafted candle coasters and more. My best sellers are my lotion candles. I struggle to keep them in stock because they sell out quicker than I can post them. The concept of lotion and candle together swept people from their feet. I am so proud I was able to launch a business during a global pandemic. My business is more than just candles, I focus on empowerment. I am a proud supporter of the LGBT community and I also encourage Black Excellence. I plan to expand and create a candle that is special to every person regardless of their beliefs or what they stand for. The thing that sets me apart from others is the fact that I make every candle with love. When you light Bleu Serenity, you will know regardless of life surrounding you, you are loved.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my friend was visiting my city, I would take them downtown to view the skyline. Downtown also has so many food places and bars to check out. Once we got downtown we would take one of the scooters across the Dallas bridge and check out some of the wonderful food. During the day we could just explore and sight see. I am new to my current city so we would explore new things together.

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 love to SHOUT OUT to the world my entire family. My Partner (Jay) has been the foundation for everything. She helped me purchase my initial products needed to start and she has been here every step of the way. My Mom Zoe (Faeriesandfirefliesshoppe), Sister Bee, Sister Taresa (Bleuprint), Brother Riley and my Aunt Tonya have also impacted my success. I do not know where I would be without a family as supportive as them. And lastly but not least, my amazing Son. When I look at him I am reminded of why I can never give up.

Website: www.bleuserenity.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/bleuserenitycandles

Facebook: www.facebook.com/bleuserenity

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