We had the good fortune of connecting with Aariel Datis and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Aariel, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Candles have always been my guilty pleasure. I’d walk into Marshalls for a new bath rug or pillows, and leave with 3-4 new candles. It never failed! I just could NOT resist sneaking to the candle aisle of any store. My love for candles started at home, as a kid. My mom would place a different scented candle in all areas of the house and lit them every time she cleaned. The kitchen would smell like apple pie. Following, the living room would smell like some kind of flower, and the bathroom would smell like lavender. I took that with me as an adult, and built my love for candles from the memories that came along with them, and the message they represented in my household, “cleanliness.” As I got older, my love for candles broadened by not only their scent, but how lighting a candle would change my entire mood. As soon as I would light a candle, I would automatically feel a sense of peace, relaxation, and relief. The use of a candle started to feel more like an outlet, rather than a preference. It made me feel like candles were apart of my mental health routine, rather than just a part of my cleaning routine. It just so happened that the use of candles could benefit both routines, and then some!
My thought process behind starting my own business stemmed from a passion of wanting to be in a career that I would happy with. I’ve worked in every job from fast food, retail, customer service, the 9-5’s, and the list goes on. I wanted to finally do something that not only gave me a sense of individuality, but something that allowed me to help others in some way. What better business to start than a candle business that not only gives me the independence I was looking for, but also fulfills one’s mind, body, and soul. If I was going to “sell something,” I wanted to make sure that I actually liked it, and that the benefits of my products would help others in ALL aspects of life. Our candles and products do just that! They are made with 100% natural ingredients, which makes them good for your physical health, as well as the environment. They also contain natural essential oils. Because of this, each candle has an individual set of mental and physical health benefits that aid our customers in improving their personal well-being. Because candles have so many health benefits, they can also be used extensively. They are great for meditation, odor, prayer, focus, memory, sleep improvement, and more. They have a wide variety of uses, and because of this they are an all-around beneficial product to have. As a result, I just could not resist the opportunity to learn how to create them!
Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I got to where I am with my business through trial and error. Upon starting my business, I did ALOT of research. No research can predict the obstacles you will face when you are starting a business, and doing it by yourself. It definitely was not easy, and it still isn’t. It is a constant learning experience, and once I wrapped my head around that, I was able to actually find what works for ME and MY business.
I think of entrepreneurship as a never ending class. Us entrepreneurs want so badly to complete the class and obtain the degree, but we tend forget that the degree is the opportunity that comes with taking the class, and not actually completing the class, because it doesn’t have an end date. Some lessons I’ve learned throughout this journey is to take your time. Everyone learns at their own rate, and trying to rush to learn something only does yourself a disservice. Another lesson I’ve learned is to ask for help. Getting assistance opens doors for you to learn MORE about entrepreneurship, and gain MORE opportunities. Lastly, I’ve learned to celebrate ALL success. As an entrepreneur, there are great days, and there are bad days. But, being able to recognize the good, makes up for the bad and motivates you to keep going.
I want the world to know that R Candle Company is not just a candle company. R Candle Company is a lifestyle. Our motto: relieved, relaxed, rebalanced. Our motto is our goal, and our goal is the lifestyle we live. Our products are made with this goal in mind, and aim to assist our customers in living a more positive life. Our candles are not just for scent or decoration, they are for comfort, happiness, and peace. They are made for each and every person who wants to improve their personal well being. They are made with love, and you will feel it every time you light one of our candles!
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend was in town, I would definitely take her to Las Olas, Hollywood Beach. We would start the weekend by eating at Ra Sushi Bar during happy hour for exotic sushi rolls, and amazing drinks on a budget. After that, we would walk the strip to check out all the newest boutiques and shops in the area. Following that, we would have a nice outing on the beach during sunset hours. There we could have long conversations and just enjoy the time we have with one another.
Some of the most exciting places to visit in the city would be Wynwood Art District. Here, you can find a variety of shops, restaurants, bars and clubs, and wall art throughout the district. All facilities are within walking distance of each other which makes it convenient for an all day outing. Another staple in the city would be Aventura Mall. Aventura Mall is one of the biggest malls in the city. In this mall you can find a variety of name brand stores, small shops, and boutiques. There are over 10 restaurants and eateries within the mall if you are craving a bite. In the surrounding areas, you can also find many activities to do such as jet skiing, kayaking, museums, and more.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to give a shout out to my mom! She has been my role model through life and my number 1 support with everything that I do. My mom, Cheryl Thomas, is the CEO & Founder of ICATER2, catering company. She taught me how to be your own boss, and chase your dreams. She was an amazing example of how to be an independent woman, as well as a boss. She works super hard, and never gives up on anything she sets her mind to. I am proud to be walking in her footsteps!
My mom continuously motivates me to do what I love, and to always find ways to be better. Without her love and support, I would not have had the courage to become an entrepreneur. Shout out to you mom! I love you!
Website: www.rcandlecompany.com
Instagram: @rcandlecompany
Linkedin: @rcandlecompany
Facebook: R Candle Company