Meet Odette Shirley of Maison Jouvence

Today we’d like to introduce you to Odette Shirley.

Hi Odette, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I am first mom to three adult kids, then an entrepreneur. I studied Aviation at Embry Riddle University with a focus in logistics and contract negotiations. I spent close to 20 years in airport management and worked my way up through the corporate ladder all while raising my children as a single mother. During those years, relaxation was out of the question, and although I had a primary career in the airline industry, that quickly changed when I decided to go back to school to learn massage therapy.

It’s with that skill I managed side hustles, worked the weekends, and learned the importance of the Body, Mind, and Soul connection. I learned how important it was to have a balance of all three and how taking “Me time” to recharge was crucial to one’s sanity! This lesson proved beneficial as I raised children, a career and side hustles. As my career evolved and children grew, I dropped the side hustles to eventually focus on my airline career, but I always kept my “zen” with me! From my home to my office, anyone who knows me knows that I’m all about wellness of mind, body and soul. To me, it’s about taking care of those three things to ensure we feel good, we have less stress and are better people to society.

I always loved candles. There’s nothing more soothing than the flickering flames of a candle! Every time I was asked what I wanted for a gift, a nice candle was a sure answer! I just wanted a candle, the provenance didn’t matter! At least that was until the tragic loss of my best friend. In 2006, my best friend was diagnosed with an aggressive adecarcinoma of the lungs. She had never smoked in her life so we were shocked. That was definitely a turning point for me. What we breathe in is important…pollution, candle soothe… I had decided to make better choices on what I can control, what went into my body! I then was on a quest to create a “healthy” candle. After conducting my own research, I decided to make my own blend of soy and coconut waxes with vegan oils for a smooth and luxurious candle, along with certified crackling wood wicks. The best of the best!

I used my candles for my own relaxation at home and the office. Then in 2020, the world came to a standstill, throwing everyone out of balance- and because of it, many people realized there was a need to re-balance. As we were forced to sit down, I started making more candles and practicing more techniques. I started gifting them to friends and family. With the increased awareness of self-care and self-everything, M.J.’s message was well received. It wasn’t long before I started getting requests. Requests turned into orders… Maison Jouvence was born! I wanted the brand’s name to be French, which is my first language. I wanted something meaningful, full of heart and the passion I have for self-care; so I chose Maison (home) and Jouvence (renewal, youth), making the brand name “Home of Renewal”. Much of the creative drive behind the brand is reflected by my background, my experiences and the places I have traveled to… Naturally, Maison Jouvence started with the luxury candles. I wanted beautiful, clean, organic, chemical-free, long-lasting candles. Then, the gold marble mugs made their entrance. As a tea drinker and self-declared resident “boojie aunty”, I wanted special mugs that were different, glam, and fancy. The latest to join the family last December were the 100% organic cotton velour hooded robes! (Yes! Let’s normalize luxury!)

My corporate experience helped with patience and making sure I took all the right steps; for example, I was able to set up realistic expectations and did not believe things would happen overnight. Some of my biggest obstacles were mindset related. I had to tackle imposter syndrome. The fear of failing such a large project was always looming. I had to work on my mindset and believe I could do it. I constantly reminded myself that I have handled multi-million dollars startups projects and managed large operations so this wasn’t any different. Maison Jouvence was my baby, so it was very personal. Therefore, It is crucial for me that Maison Jouvence message is conveyed in a harmonious way so people understand that it all starts with self-love, self-care, and a positive mindset! In terms of brand accessibility, Maison Jouvence believes the products don’t make the self-care but rather the mind first. The brand is here with a mission to empower everyone, especially women, and remind them that amid their daily superhero duties, “me time” is needed to keep pushing!

Maison Jouvence has plans for diversification. The next phase in Fall is to launch an array of delicious organic and specialty teas & tea accessories, powerful plant base elixirs for immunity, stamina, clear skin, energy and restful sleep. In 2023, the inventory will expand to include bath & body items, home & linen sprays, and a line of hotel amenities.

When talking business growth, the brand has grown organically, which means no ads were used so far. Social media, networking and word-of-mouth have played major roles in establishing Maison Jouvence in the self-care industry. Success to the brand is continued growth and elevation- to be able to look back every year and see the path traveled. My expectation is to have Maison Jouvence in all households and be the go-to for everything self-care and wellness!

So many people ask me, “How do I get started?” or “What’s the secret to success?” The truth is, there’s no magic trick or special potion. There’s only hard work! If you’ve got a dream and the drive to make it happen, then don’t wait for someone to hand it to you on a silver platter. You have to arm yourself with grits and resilience and SHOW UP! If you focus on your path, stick to your dreams and remain consistent, you will see the fruits of your labor.

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?
The obstacles were my own mindset blockage, the imposter syndrome.

Challenges are the fact of being a black business. We do not get the same exposure and opportunities. When I first started, I considered not revealing the face behind the brand. But I changed that thought when I realized that I am a role model for all the young black girls aspiring to be entrepreneurs. The younger generation is watching…therefore, I must stand tall and proud!

Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Maison Jouvence is a self-care and lifestyle company that provides high-quality, natural products for the mind, body, and soul. We believe that living well means taking care of yourself from the inside out—but we also know that sometimes you just need a little help from your friends! Maison Jouvence offers a range of products designed to help you slow down and nurture yourself.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.maisonjouvence.com
• Instagram: @maisonjouvence