Today we’d like to introduce you to Shawn Shaw.
Hi Shawn, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Zen and Company was established in January 2019, after years of being fond of Yankee Candle and spending hundreds of dollars on their products. At my early stages of purchasing with Yankee Candle, I did not realize the toxic fumes of the paraffin wax that was causing my asthma to flare up regularly. After research and learning that there were alternatives, such as vegetable waxes, I began my candle-making journey and started creating handcrafted candles, wax melts and more with the environment in mind.
I’ve always loved how scented candles can instantly boost your mood and after carrying out careful research, I noticed there was an absence of places available to purchase sustainable, paraffin-free, vegan candles and decided I wanted to make a change.
Through many trials and rigorous testing, I’ve hand-crafted a range of eco-conscious products that are safe to burn and made from the highest quality ingredients, free from parabens and phthalates.
From the inception, I knew I wanted my brand of candles to be as natural and sustainable as possible which is why I ruled out paraffin. Instead, our wax is made with a blend of 100% coconut and shea butter oil, our jars are re-usable, our wicks are cotton core and our Man Cave Collection labels are made from recycled paper.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
As a self-funded startup, everything at the beginning stage had to come from my own pocket. I was a little optimistic in my initial estimates and overlooked a lot!
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
My 9-5 employment is Property Management. I’ve been in the business for 25 years. I manage a luxury mid-rise asset in the Buckhead area of Atlanta, GA.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
Social Media and Youtube is your friend, this will help you tremendously. There are groups out there that are willing to assist and teach you the ins/outs of candle making.
Contact Info:
- Email: zenandcompanyllc@gmail.com
- Website: www.zenandcompany.net
- Instagram: zenandcompany_llc
- Facebook: Zen and Company, LLC
- Twitter: @ZenandCompany_
