Today we’d like to introduce you to Senell Young.
Hi Senell, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I started my business in November of 2020. My passion for candles go back as far as 20 years always loved the different smells and the cozy feeling that it gives every room. I really like Soy wax but found that if I mix both the soy and paraffin it give my candles an extra throw in each room. I also have inculded the wooden wicks…the crackling sounds are very soothing when you are just getting off work and relaxing. I make candles as gifts for birthday parties, graduations, baby showers, weddings, and just to say “Thank you”. I started out making them for family and friends and now I want to share them with the world. Senola Candles is my baby in so many ways. I came up with the name because my mother named me after her and because she is no longer with us I felt that I could honor her with our name and include were we are from and that is how I came up with SENOLA 🙂 This is very exciting for me and my family has been great supporters through all of this. I have had this dream for years and now that I have opened my store I will now work on getting my brand into the stores on Bourbon Street in New Orleans. Buckle up here I come. Thank you
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Well I started out with the idea and then brought it to life with just a name and some old vessels that I had from other candles I had laying around the house. I would melt the used candles down and make candles that way and then little by little I would purchase things like wax and wicks to see what I liked best. In 2023 I had a major surgery that landed me in the hospital for 2 months and then in rehab after that and that was a set back for me but I am well and I am here and ready to show the world my product. It did take me some time to get to where I am but I made and I am so proud of myself and looking forward to nothing but red carpet events from here on out.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Professional I was a Business Manager for a Staffing agency and I have been in that line of work for over 12 years. I just recently was let go of my duties due to lack of work with that company. But it was the best thing that could have happened to me. (I told my friend what happened and she said “Congratulations”) Lol. and I think about that everyday. I am 51 years old and I have been married…divorced…and 3 kids and I finally get to do something for me. This is funny for me because I get to be my own boss and I don’t have to clock in to No ones job!
I am most proud that I was able to start this business and able to see it through to the end. My journey is just beginning and truly looking forward to what is in my future.
What sets me apart from others is I am a southern girl with love for my city and a true passion for making candles.
What would you say have been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
I have learned the value of patience and attention to detail. Candle making requires precision in measuring ingredients, monitoring temperature, and understanding the behavior of wax and fragrances. Every candle that does not turn out the as you expect offers insights for improvement, leading to greater creativity and skill overtime. The joy and satisfaction that come from the entire crafting process is awesome.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.senolacandles.com
- Instagram: @senolacandles
Image Credits
Malik Frazier Photographer
