Today we’d like to introduce you to Kendra Wicks.
Hi Kendra, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I believe in having a mindset that is grounded in creating something that encourages me to free myself from a system that wasn’t created for me to be free. I started making candles as a hobby back in 2018 because I was in search of something that added a new purpose to my life. Even though it was a roller coaster journey of many ups and downs, I never gave up because I knew it was something I was destined to do.
Candle-making has truly placed me on a path back to “self.” My artistic and authentic self. I’m also a naturalist, which is why I only use simple ingredients that earth-friendly and non-toxic. Every gift is created from a frequency that has allowed me to create a sense of serenity and ambiance for myself as well as for other people.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It definitely has not been a smooth road and I think the ultimate challenge for me was just learning the science behind candle making. I thought it would be as simple as following an instruction sheet and getting excellent results every time, but it was far from that. It took a lot of research, time, trial and error and because I wanted the quality of my brand to represent simplicity with natural products, I had to get to know how each ingredient interacted with one another. Once I found my niche, I was able to finally start selling my candles and build my business.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a chandler of about three years now and my brand is Wickscentury Natural Soy Candles. I am proud to say that Wickscentury is a black woman-owned business and we specialize in curating unique mood-enhancing scents that deliver a personalized aromatic experience. I also take pride in knowing that I put this brand together from top to bottom. From creating the labels to making the candles with customized fragrances, to putting together the packaging and presentation. It’s satisfying to know that I put so much effort in my brand in order to ensure my customers receive quality products.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
My 7-year-old daughter, Emarie Tristan, definitely deserves credit. She is the reason for me starting a business in the first place. I wanted to put her in a position where she could be her own boss, learn the ins and out about entrepreneurship, and have something that will be there for generations. She is also my biggest helper when it comes to candle-making and selling in person at different markets.
Contact Info:
- Email: wickscenturyco@gmail.com
- Website: www.wickscenturyco.com
- Instagram: Instagram.com/wickscentury_co
- Facebook: Facebook.com/wickscenturyco
- Twitter: twitter.com/wickscenturyco
