Inspiring Conversations with Angel Risher of Scent The Tone

Today we’d like to introduce you to Angel Risher.

Hi Angel, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I am the creator and owner of Scent The Tone(candle company). 2020 has really forced me to acknowledge my desires and take action and I’ve done so with Scent The Tone. I grew up in South Central Los Angeles (Normandie and Jefferson) and I was raised to go after what I want. Even with that influence, I’ve always been a little hesitant to start a business because I didn’t want to be judged and I didn’t know if anyone would support. I decided to really forget about all of that!! I began to create! I tested my candle formula for months, found reliable vendors for my supplies, and solidified my purpose. I initially didn’t tell anyone besides my sister. I was really focused on finishing something that I started.

It all culminated with my official launch on October 20, 2020. That was the most nerve wrecking and exciting day that I’ve ever experienced. It was all worth it!! Over the past few years, I’ve been betting on myself. From running multiple marathons (thanks to Keep It Run Hundred), solo traveling to starting a business. I really have gotten to the point where I want to do everything that my heart desires, even if I have to do it alone. I hope that people are inspired by that! We tend to wait until we are accepted or acknowledged before taking a leap. Scent The Tone is just an extension of my journey and I love it.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Creating and starting Scent The Tone was not easy. For one, candle making can be a little difficult. Making a candle is more than just mixing wax and fragrances. There are formulas involved to ensure that the heat throw and cold throw are efficient. I wanted my candles to leave a long-lasting impression. I tested many different waxes before I found the one that I loved. I am pleased to say that Scent The Tone candles are hand-poured in small batches, 100 % natural soy wax candles, vegan and we utilize lead-free cotton wicks. Each candle is made with purpose, love and kindness. As a business owner, it’s necessary to be the face of your brand. Well, I’m an introvert and that’s currently an obstacle because I tend to caress my comfort zone in public settings. It’s not easy for me to put myself out there. I still have yet to post a video of myself speaking about my candles and that’s possibly weird to some people. Essentially, I’m doing what works for me and that’s being authentically myself. That’s currently working, for now. The candles are kind of speaking for me. However, I know that I will need to be more vocal and I really do want my business to grow further and reach a larger consumer audience.

We’ve been impressed with Scent The Tone, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Scent The Tone is a hand-poured, 100 % natural soy wax candle company. I hand pour each candle in Inglewood, CA, while also working full time in the Human Resources field. The mission is to provide people with an experience. When I contemplated the various aspects of the business, I knew that I wanted to make people feel. Whether it’s lighting a candle after a long day of work, a candlelit dinner for two, or lighting a candle after dealing with kids all day at home due to the pandemic. Scent The Tone aids in setting the tone for any occasion. Scent The Tone launched with two Collections: Classic and Cuffing Season. Before the launch, I knew that I had to provide an experience.

We built momentum with Cuffing Season because who doesn’t want to be cuffed?! That collection included Merlot, Roses and Connect; all of which smell amazing and have received great feedback. We created a visual with the help from a few friends (Brian, Butta and Jasmine). The visual provided our audience with an experience and showcased all three fragrances. Check it out on Instagram: @scentthetone Scent The Tone currently offers 4 oz and 10 oz candles. I initially started with 4 oz candles because I know it’s hard to commit to a scent that you may not be able to smell before purchase. So far, we offer ten fragrances. We will soon offer customized labels and additional collections to enhance the experience. We are grateful to be able to expand due to the gracious support.

Any big plans?
Eventually, I want to own a retail space for Scent The Tone. There are not that many Black candle makers and I would love to teach people about the craft. For now, I plan to continue creating experiences and sharing different collections. Our current Collections include Cuffing Season, Classic, Holiday and Limited Edition. I will plan monthly pop-ups for those who want to enjoy the candles in person. Our first pop up shop was such a great experience and exposed the brand to new people. We received great feedback, which has fueled my drive even more. Within the next 2-3 years, I would love to be a full-time entrepreneur and also mentor others who may also want to start a business. I love sharing information, especially if it’s beneficial to others. I love my career, but there is something different about leading with my heart instead of a dollar.

Pricing:

• 4oz candles: $15.00
• 10 oz candles: $28.00

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Website: www.scentthetone.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scentthetone/

Image Credits
Brian Galdamez @gvldamez
Robin Taylor @nursenomad.jpg