Today we’d like to introduce you to Erika Culley.
Hi Erika, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I am the owner of Southern Jane Candles & Company. We are a small candle and skincare business based out of Danville, Virginia. Danville is a small city on the borderline of Virginia and North Carolina making us 45.5 miles from Greensboro, North Carolina. In 2020, I obtained my master’s degree in Business Administration from Averett University.
While in school, I studied and researched different businesses. I was inspired to invest in a business that provides natural, environment-friendly products. As a result, I embarked upon a journey to incorporate my love for candles and holistic well-being. In that same year, I became the sole proprietor of Southern Jane Candles & Company and began producing non-toxic soy wax candles in my home.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
This has not been a smooth road, there has been a lot of challenges and obstacles along the way. My first year in business, I mainly focused on research. I think it is very important for individuals to research the industry in which they are looking to open a business. As the sole principal member of Southern Jane Candles & Company, my role is multifaceted. I am responsible for accounting, production, marketing, and sales. Everything is done onsite and yes, as one can imagine, this process comes with a lot of trial and error.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
My business is rooted with the idea of providing wholesome products that safely bestows a positive, calming mental and physical impact in the life of the consumer. The products and services offered consist of handcrafted soy wax candles and skincare. Southern Jane Candles & Company is named after my late grandmother Sylvia Jane Hairston. As a little girl, I remember watching my grandmother always going above and beyond to help others. The names and fragrances chosen for the products symbolize the treasured memories I had with my beautiful grandmother. For this reason, Southern Jane Candles & Company was created to provide customers with products that allow them to reminisce on cherished memories and create a spa-like atmosphere wherever they are. All our products are handmade in small batches. Our candles are made with 100% all-natural soy wax, cotton wicks, and phthalate-free fragrances. For our skincare, we use ingredients that are non-toxic and safe to use on the skin.
In today’s world, we need more love, compassion, and patience for one another. Everything is always rushed or moving fast. Sometimes we forget to take that moment to relax and take care of ourselves mentally and physically. Southern Jane Candles & Company easily makes giving the gift of wellness and self-care a joy. In fact, upon request, we offer customized gift orders (individually wrap, personalize individual greeting cards, and other items). Our motto is “spread love with Southern Jane products.” At Southern Jane Candles & Company, we also focus on products that are designed for easy travel. I am most proud of the products that we offer. Not only are they uniquely original, but they are also created to personally bring an individual sense of calm into the life of the user. Our current product line consists of soy wax candles, soy wax melts, room sprays, reed diffusers, car diffusers, wick trimmers, body sprays, exfoliates, body butters, body wash butters, beard oil, and body oils. You will find that our products are high in quality and don’t necessitate having to use a lot—a simple dash will get the job done.
So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
I am always open to new opportunities to positively affect the life of the consumer. I embrace and look for platforms that will allow me to get my brand out there. I can be contacted by phone and/or email, all information is available on our website.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.southernjanecandlesandcompany.com
- Instagram: @southernjaneco
- Facebook: Southern Jane Candles & Company
