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

Hi Shadaya, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
At the time of me starting my business, I was placed on bed rest , due to being injured on a prior job. During this time , the pandemic took place and we were all on lock down. I kept running to the store stocking up on candles, until one day I stated to myself , ” I want to learn how to make candles”. Shortly after I started to educate myself on the candle making process. I decided to invest into myself and started my business.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am a candle maker. My candles are 100% soy candles. With any natural soy candle, they last for hours. I believe what sets me apart from others, are most definitely my scents. My most popular fragrance is 90’s R&B, which consist of Mandarin & Musk. Having starting a business, has come with several sacrifices. I am a mother of 3, so working from home can be overwhelming at times, however I’ve learned how to prioritize and have effective time management. The lessons I’ve learned along the way is to keep record of everything as far as expenses, bank records, state documents, etc. Also with a growing business, there comes more problems, so its wise to watch who you have in your circle . I would want the world to know that my business started from a painful time in my life, and I’ve encountered many obstacles since, however every business has their highs and lows, but no matter what keep pushing. Also if there ever comes a time when you question yourself and feel like giving up, remind yourself all the reasons why you started. I also want to use my platform to bring awareness to mental health and domestic violence. These topics aren’t really discussed , but affects so many and are both apart of my story.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Some of the most interesting places to visit would be BQE, Boogalou, and Cafe Circa .

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 shout out Ms. Raynell Steward aka Supa Cent. I ran into her at a restaurant , while on vacation, and presented my candles to her and her friends. I was so nervous to speak with her, but she was so down to earth , and humble. She shared my candles to her social media and my candles became a success literally overnight. I am still mind blown , at the amount of success my candles have done. I thank her so much , that goes endlessly. My business all started with me stepping out on faith for wanting to be an entrepreneur, and also presenting my candles to Supa Cent. I would also like to shoutout my business partner, Mr. Andre Grant. He shows up every time and shows out. I truly appreciate him and the time he commits to Alleviated Aromas. Also my support system Nikkia Campbell, Shaquana Rouse, Latrice Smalls, and Tammy Gaines. These individuals are my backbone . They all have supported me from day one.

Website: www.myalleviatedaromas.com

Instagram: alleviated aromas

Facebook: alleviated aromas

Other: Etsy: Alleviated Aromas Walmart.com : Alleviated Aromas

Image Credits
AG3

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