We had the good fortune of connecting with Stacey Martin and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Stacey, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
My brand is extremely important to me and as I thought about what that meant and how I wanted others to know more about me and my brand, it was a no brainer to dedicate my brand in memory of my mother who lost her battle in 2020 to pancreatic cancer. In 2020 we created a scent together that I made special for her with the hope it would provide a sense of peace and comfort as she was fighting the good fight. It did just that. That candle was called SHERO. Strong Healty Educated Outstanding Woman. That is truly who she was and still is. This is also the name of the mentoring program she created over 25 years ago. What better way to continue her legacy.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Self care is essential and in my opinion never up for negotiation. It’s what I take pride in and consider myself a self care advocate. I like to think no matter what type of day you’re having, when you light one of my candles it provides a sense of calmness and peace. When I wake up I light my candle, when I get home I light my candle. In fact I have to tell hubby to stop taking the inventory because he loves them too. LOL.
I take pride in being able to provide products that others may also use to honor the strong women in their lives wether they are here in the physical presence or honoring their memory. I’m a firm believer of honoring those that are still here and what better way to do that by gifting them a SHERO candle or coffee mug.
We also offer crystal candles. I decided to offer these during my mother’s battle because I wanted to provide a sense calmness and peace to her and assist with her anxiety. Amethyst crystal do just that.
I’ve learned this isn’t a race and most important it’s never too late to start over and go after your passion.
I’m 54, well 55 in December. I’m a wife and grandmother and doing what I love.
I want the world to know that I’ve suffered great losses, I grieve, I hurt, I’ve had several closed doors and lots of No’s BUT I’ve made a conscious choice to keep moving and not sweat the small or big stuff. I hope that my personal story touches and inspires someone that is going through the loss of a loved one or caring for someone with a terminal illness. There is light at the end of the tunnel. Your memories last forever and will be the fuel you need at times to keep going. I like to say God gave me my own personal guardian angels and how blessed am I!
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Of course we’re going to the beach LOL. I love the Hollywood boardwalk. I’m a foodie so we’d eat at some places that also provide great ambiance. Whenever I have people come to visit I take them to Tiki Tiki, Quarterdeck on Dania Peer, take a water taxi in Fort Lauderdale or eat at Shooters in Fort Lauderdale. Can’t forget Wynwood. In Miami you have to see eat at Conch Heaven for the best Bahamian food, go to Bayside, Calle Ocho and end the night with great food and live bang at Lorna’s.
I always say we live where people vacation LOL. Being from Connecticut, I feel like I’m on vacation everyday.
I dedicate this interview to my beloved mother and son. Our memories will forever live in my heart.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
This is easy! Aside from my husband, my mother was my biggest cheerleader. As previously mentioned SHERO candle collection was created in memory of my mother. Growing up I watched her persevere and excel in everything she did. She truly was a powerhouse. The lives she touched and the impact she made in her community are the same impact I hope to make. I can hear her saying “You go girl, you rock”.
Now let’s talk about my amazing husband AKA my VP, head of marketing and Transportation Specialist. I laugh saying these titles but he truly is all these things and more. . He not only encourages me to be better but promotes my brand 200%. I am forever grateful to him.
Website: www.serenityanaleah.collection.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sherocandlecollection?igsh=MXE0eWJybDhtamg3cw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
Facebook: Serenityanaleahcollection
Image Credits
Myself Stacey Martin