Today we’d like to introduce you to Chanel Rene
Hi Chanel Rene, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I have always had a love for candles. When I went into the development process for elle west, I had been a stay at home mom for about a year. I knew that I wanted to own my own brand, and that I wanted it to be something that I was passionate about, and that could tell a story.
Our sense of smell is so sensitive. We react in a certain way when we smell something good and enticing. It can create a vibe and an energy. It can evoke certain feelings and emotions. This is why candles were it for me. I truly wanted to connect with those who purchased from the brand. The feelings that can be evoked from smelling something amazing hits the us in such a beautiful way. It can keep up such a positive energy in a space.
I launched elle west on my daughter’s second birthday in June 2020. It was so well-received and supported. I love that I have something that I can pass on to my daughter – a story that she can be proud to continue telling if she chooses to.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Of course not! I don’t think it is for most small business owners. Candles are so scientific! The testing of fragrance oil to wax ratio, the type of vessel and wick used – it all matters and requires a lot of trial and error. Financially, I was not prepared for this, but it forced me to focus on the simplicity of the scents for my initial launch. It worked out quite well! My six original scents are layered, but not complicated. They marry together perfectly, and all have a different kind of vibe – something for everyone.
Another challenge that I came across was continuing production while I was pregnant with our second child. Candle making and morning sickness was a lot to deal with and pregnancy completely threw off my sense of smell. It did force me to sit down, take a hiatus, and re-evaluate the brand and how I wanted to move forward with it in the future, and our re-launch was well received.
Aside from those things, the most consistent challenge is keeping up on social media. I will be getting better! Learning to balance a content calendar and motherhood is a lot. Thankfully, my regular customers bring in consistent orders, but growth is the goal! So, everyone will be seeing a lot more about elle west on social this year.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Vibe Curator via candle-making!
I only produce when I am in a positive headspace, because I do believe that I pass on my energy into my product, and good energy is something that I want to pass onto my customers.
I am proud that I was able to bring my vision to life. I have a background in branding, but have always focused on telling stories for the brands of others. I am proud that I stayed true to myself and the story that I wanted to tell.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
My husband has been a huge supporter since day-one. He designed my logo and labels and did all of the photography in the early stages of the brand. He really listened and paid attention to what I wanted and ultimately helped me bring my vision to life. He also keeps our children out of the kitchen when I am producing batches! Additionally, he does all of the heavy lifting for shipping large orders, and load-in for vendor shows.
My babies – I am so grateful for them simply being my inspiration!
Pricing:
- Luxury hand-poured candles ranging from $35-$5
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.ellewest.co/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ellewest.co
