Meet NaSaysha Cheatham | Candle Creator | Esscential Flame Candle Co

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

Hi NaSaysha, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
In my immediate friend circle, every one is an entrepreneur. I was inspired by their motivation and hustle and I began brainstorming what type of business venture I could take on. I am a woman of faith, so I also prayed and asked God to help me with my business idea. One day I was browsing on youtube and saw a video about D.I.Y candles. I honestly cannot explain the feeling that came over me, but it was instant confirmation. Literally 45 seconds into the video, I told myself “I am doing this, this is it.” I love candles and the variety of scents there are to offer. I did not know anyone who had a candle business and I wanted to be the first to introduce it as a small business in my town. I began brainstorming and thinking about how so many people love candles and did research on some popular scents that majority of people tend to purchase. Before even making my first candle as a test, I began ordering wax in bulk, jars in bulk, and other materials necessary to begin my business. I knew I could appeal to a large audience by offer both masculine and feminine scented candles. Who doesn’t love a good smelling candle while cleaning or just relaxing in their own space? Scents are ties to memories, great additions for holiday decor, and great to have in your home while cleaning or simply relaxing in your own space. My candles are composed of 100% natural soy wax. They are non-toxic and they burn slower than the average paraffin wax candle.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Outside of my candle making business, I work in Human Resources as a Talent Acquisition Specialist. I attended MTSU and obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in business back in 2017. In 2020, I obtained my Master’s of Business Administration from Bethel University. This time, my concentration was in HR management. I love working with others and helping them find the right position for them to excel in their career. Working in talent acquisition allows me to travel and meet new people all of the the time, while trying to match them with the perfect job opportunity. I can honestly say, graduate school was a challenge for me. I was also working a full-time 40-45hour a week job and trying to maintain work-life balance.

Along the way, I have learned that despite the challenge, I can make it through as long as I am focused and goal-oriented. Yes, there were times when I felt defeated, but I am not a person that gives up easily. I am very proud to be where I am today. I am someone who does not give up when times get hard. I launched Esscential Flame during a pandemic and I had no idea how my product was going to sell. I kept the faith, continued marketing my product and here we are one year later, doing just fine! Now, instead of only making candles and wax melts, I make incense sticks as well. I also have candle care tool sets that customers are able to purchase to preserve the life of their candles. I have a ton a new things in store for 2022! I am beyond excited to continue to grow my business.

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.
When my friends and I get together we are ready to play! We honestly switch it up, depending on the vibe but usually we are starting the night off with food and drinks at a nice lounge or bar. Willie B’s always has good music, good food, and hookah! If we aren’t there we are more than likely going to start off by going to WKND Hang Suite or Minerva for another good vibe. We are definitely going where the music is, no matter what! Once the drinks start flowing, we are the life of the party and it does not matter who is watching. I love my turn-up crew!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would love to give a shoutout to one of my best friend’s, Denisha Middleton a.k.a my personal hair stylist. She is such a hard-working, giving, and caring friend. She is the owner of D.Luxe Glamour Collection here in the Nashville area. I watched her perfect her craft and grow her clientele tremendously. During this pandemic, I have watched her do hair, make-up, launch a line of cosmetics and hair products, all while being in grad school. She is the true definition of a boss.

When I had an idea, she was the person I ran it by. When I first began making my candles, I would take them to her and she would test them out for me and give me her honest feedback. She honestly was the first person I told about my business idea and she has supported me and encouraged me since the first day. She helped me design my first logo, answered countless questions regarding my website design, and allowed me to take majority of my product photos with her equipment. This is definitely dedicated to her!

Website: www.esscentialflamecandles.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/esscentialflamecandleco

Twitter: www.twitter.com/eflamecandles

Facebook: www.facebook.com/esscentialflamecandleco