We had the good fortune of connecting with Toni Porter and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Toni, what is the most important factor behind your success?
I am taking an innovative approach with fragrance. My goal is to transform your environment, by creating an experience through smell. I am also adding different elements and complimenting products that can be used anywhere. I have built my business on the idea that fragrance can provide comfort and enrich people’s lives. I consider it a privilege to be a part of creating new memories and making special moments even more special with true-to-life fragrance. Enjoyed throughout the US, our fragrances are the universal thread that keeps all of us connected and inspired.

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?
I have been the sole owner and employee of Toni’s Collection for the last 11 years. I handle all duties from production of all products, advertising, marketing, customer service, to inventory management. Prior to starting candle business, I worked customer service & management and boasts of 10 years’ experience in the candle-making industry. I have extensive knowledge having worked for large and reputable organizations in the course of my career.

I wish there was a such thing as an easy path or smooth road on this entrepreneurship journey, but it’s not. One of the biggest challenges I faced, has just been having working capital or finding lenders. As an entrepreneur, funding is limited to small business. You have to seek nontraditional options or exhaust investing your own funds. As a smaller business, the price breaks aren’t available unless you are buying in larger quantities wholesale, which is intimidating when you are first starting out if funding is limited. A huge challenge has also been marketing/advertising. You either need to have a nice budget, or learn how to do it on your own. I always say that you can have a great product, but if no one knows about it, it won’t sell.

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.
The first stop on the list is Toni’s Collection to enjoy some good vibes making candles with a Sip & Scents Session. We would grab some good food and drinks on the way. Toni’s Collection is a complete vibe and a safe environment in todays society. Candles, Cocktails, and a Great Time, is a SIP & SCENTS! Invite your friends, sip some cocktails and enjoy step-by-step instructions of candle making! You’ll leave with a one-of-a-kind creation and a great night out with friends. Book a private party or join our group session. From birthday and bachelorette parties to date nights and team buildings, we can help you celebrate anything! Host a SIP & SCENTS Session for kids ages 8-up or adults! You’re bringing together family and friends, for an exclusive intimate & exhilarating candle making experience.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to shout to my mom Ella Porter and my son Jaxon Chandler. My mom is my biggest supporter and the best grandmother to my son. I’m only able to achieve my success due to her. I am a single mom but I’m running an enterprise. So without her this would not be possible. Having a good support system as an entrepreneur is much needed. There are a lot of late nights and early mornings that I am working. So I bring my 5 year old son to work with me as much as possible, but when it’s time to put in overtime I am blessed to have my mom to help me.

Website: https://www.toniscollection.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/toniscollection/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/toni-porter-a3695b56/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/TonisCollection

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TonisCollection

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/toniscollection313

Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@toniscollectionllc https://linktr.ee/toniscollection

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