Today we’d like to introduce you to Darrica Hardy.
Hi Darrica, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Making candles started as a hobby. One day I bought candles as gifts for my family, when I got home I thought to myself, I need to stop spending all my money on candles and make them myself. My goal was to give them out as gifts. That day I watched YouTube videos for hours and wrote down ideas. I did the research, I wanted to create something unique – I love to stand out. I decided to make dessert candles. The first candles I made was banana pudding, birthday cake, pumpkin latte. They received so much attention when I posted the photos on my social media. I was already an entrepreneur at the time (selling clothing), so I decided to release a collection on that site. I begin getting sales. My mom was so proud, she invested in a kiosk at Arbor Place month for two months. She offered to work there for opening to closing while I worked my (9-5). This was a dream come true. My dad ended up helping some days, my cousins, my partner. It was amazing. This was the busiest season of the year, Black Friday / Christmas time and we sold hundreds of candles. Being at the kiosk inspired my brand. We were introduced to Covid so we decided to base our business online. The Heart Scent is growing! We have different collections from aromatherapy, masculine, to dessert wax melts. Our goal is to get into more stores to make our candles more Assessable for our customers.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
All the challenges I faced were learning experiences. There were times when I ship packages, a candle would break. It cost money to remake the candle and reship, and I don’t have money to waste, so I had to find a way that doesn’t happen again. I learned what I needed how to package my products and never had a problem since. Every day there may be some challenges, but I get through them. That’s a part of what being an entrepreneur is about. Overcoming struggles makes me strong. Our goal is to get our own storefront, regardless of what’s ahead of us. We will get there 🤍
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I create unique candles. In the beginning, my specialty were dessert candles. My goal was to make the candles look so realistic, it may make your stomach growl or mouth water. Now I’m open to customization. I may make an Air Force one candle one day and chicken wings next. I’m proud of all my work. Each day I get better, so when I look back and see where I start —- woah I could never complain. I’m thankful for my gift.
What was your favorite childhood memory?
My favorite childhood memories is eating blue steam crabs full of the old bay with my cousins on the Eastern Shore, Maryland. Laughter, people dancing, good music, good vibes.
Pricing:
- Wax melts start at $2.99
- Candles start at $9.99
Contact Info:
- Website: www.theheartscent.com
- Instagram: Instagram.com/theheartscent
- Facebook: The Heart Scent, LLC
