Meet Rekieshia Norton-Forrest | Candle Business Owner & Educator

We had the good fortune of connecting with Rekieshia Norton-Forrest and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Rekieshia, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
During the time of the pandemic, I had all of this extra time on my hands and wanted to try something that was out of my comfort zone. I am a huge candle collector and thought “why not try to make my own candles?”. After my first successful candle, that was it!!!!! Next thing I know, I was coming up with all of these ideas from candle scents and names to brand colors, logo ideas, you name I was doing it…. nine months later here I am owning my own candle business!

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
J.J.L. Candle Co. was created with black culture in mind. Every candle is created in small batches using soy wax. You will notice that every name represents some part of black culture (song titles, show titles, cultural colloquialisms, important figures, etc). I am most proud of the growth we have had since launching back in June 2020. From the product packaging to additional products added, I’m just in awe of it all. The journey has been a fun-filled one to say the least. It has not been easy, but I’ve been able to balance it for the most part. As a small business owner, I do it all! I schedule time during the week to work on certain parts of the business and still making sure to take care of my wife and mommy duties. I create my own social media content and ads, design my own labels and website, name and scent creation, packaging, product photos, the list goes on. I’ve learned to not try to do it all in one day! Focus on one goal to accomplish for the day and/or week and work on that. If you need help, ASK!!! I would rather have a helping hand and mental clarity than to be overwhelmed and frustrated. Our brand was created for candle lovers who love black culture! We are a family business that’s creating generational wealth. My children are not only the business name, but also tremendous helpers behind the scenes..

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.
First stop would be Wynwood Walls in Miami. It’s the perfect destination for a day of sightseeing that included beautiful art work. Another great spot that has everything from eating to shopping is Las Olas Boulevard. One of my favorite restaurants is Lobster Bar Sea Grille. For a night on the town that includes drinks and good music, I would recommend Bar One in Miami Beach. This spot is for the grown and sexy. On the last day of their trip I would recommend Just Spoons Cafe in Plantation. One of the best upscale southern style food spots in Broward County.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to shoutout my husband and best friend, Marvin. From day one he has and continues to encourage and push me to keep going. He is there for every idea that I have and gives his honest input (even when he knows that I’m still going to do what I want). My right hand at all events that I am a part of. I truly couldn’t continue doing this without him supporting me!

Website: www.jjlcandlecompany.com

Instagram: @jjlcandleco

Twitter: @jjlcandleco1

Facebook: @jjlcandlecompany

Other: Pinterest @jjlcandleco