Bill Leonard
It would be fair to say that our rough and tumble, hustle and bustle world is often disruptive to our comfort, relaxation, and serenity for several interconnected reasons.
We live in a world of constant sensory input through our devices, social media, and even advertisements. We are bombarded with continuous stimuli that keep our minds in a perpetual state of alertness. There is little room for relaxation or deep focus.
The pressure to "do more," "be more," to keep up with societal expectations often leads to chronic stress.
Our mind struggles to slow down when it's constantly processing new information.
Our bodies and minds cannot recharge without enough time for proper rest.
Am I talking about you?
Balancing these external pressures with the need for personal relaxation requires an intentional effort to slow down, disconnect, and prioritize self-care.
So, how do we reach that balance?
Surprisingly, one small but significant step taken over centuries is to use scented candles and not just as a light source. Fragrant candles play a significant role in enhancing home décor, aromatherapy, and emotional well-being.
We all know Reno is home to gaming, mining, logistics, and other tech companies. Reno is also home to Shortie's Candle Co. Found at Whole Foods and Walmart.com, Shortie's candles has a compelling story behind it.
Shortie's Candles started not as a hobby, but with Georgia Vanderville as a teenager not having enough money to buy her boyfriend a gift. One of her relatives suggested a candle, which she bought over the counter. Disappointed in her purchase for its lack of fragrance, she knew she could do better and started making candle gifts infused with fragrance for her friends. The response was so positive that it fueled her love and passion for making the best possible candle products for customers at craft shows and then trade shows. She opened a warehouse to create more products and spread her product to the world.
Oh, and one more thing, she married that boyfriend. Today, Shortie's Candle Co., has the capacity to produce 12,000 to 14,000 candles a day with scents that comfort you in a way that allows you to step back from day-to-day challenges and relax. The many scents are clean, bold and non-toxic.
What makes Shortie's Candle Co., stand out from the crowd?
The foundation of any candle is its wax. High-quality candles, like those from Shortie's, use premium wax that burns longer than lower-grade alternatives. These waxes also hold fragrance better, ensuring a consistent scent throughout the candle's life.
A great candle delivers a fragrance that is both pleasing and long-lasting. Shortie's candles use expertly blended, high-concentration oils to create scents that fill a room without overpowering the area.
It's my guess that most of us don't think much about wick design when it comes to a candle. Shortie's Candle Co., selects wicks that promote even burning, minimize soot, and maximize the candle's life.
Increasingly, consumers seek candles made with sustainable practices, eco-friendly packaging, and natural ingredients. Shortie's Candle Co., recognized our desires early on. All of their candles are responsibly crafted.
Success does not come without challenges.
Vanderville puts lack of time at the top of her challenge list. Quality is key to keeping her customers returning for more, which takes considerable time and attention to maintain.
In our current inflationary economy, the costs of premium waxes, natural fragrance oils, and eco-friendly packaging materials have surged.
Environmental regulations are constantly in flux. Yes, candles are subject to several environmental regulations that must be adhered to.
Differentiating a candle product and building customer loyalty require constant innovation and marketing.
Some candles are heavy and fragile, making shipping a logistical and financial hurdle to expand their reach.
How is Shortie's Candle Co., overcoming these challenges?
Shortie's research into fragrances that people crave is paying dividends.
With investment in automated machinery to streamline the production process, the flow of finished candles has markedly increased.
Expanding its partnerships with Whole Foods and Walmart.com will increase Shortie's visibility, credibility, and sales.
So give yourself a little stress relief and a moment of tranquility after a busy day. Fragrance connects us with pleasant, soothing memories. Smells often connect you to your childhood and important events in your life.
You just may find that a fragrant Shortie's candle lit at the right time is just the ticket for a restful and relaxing break from a hectic day. Feel renewed, confident, and ready to take on whatever follows.
Shortie's Candle Co., exemplifies the resilience and creativity needed to thrive in the candle crafting industry. I guess you can say the company is lighting the way forward, literally and figuratively, to a brighter, more fragrant future for hundreds of thousands of people every day.
NCET Tech Wednesday, Dec. 11, is your opportunity to learn more about Shortie's Candle Co., and candle crafting.
Sign up early for Shortie's Candle Co.'s presentation from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. and networking from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m.
During your visit, you will see and hear about:
• The fragrance scent-making process
• The hand-crafting and pouring process
• The production line in action
• Shortie's diverse line of candle products
• How to purchase candle holiday gifts.
So don't be late. Register now by visiting NCET.org.
Bill Leonard is VP of Communications at NCET and a ghostwriter for startup founders, business leaders, and consultants seeking to boost their influence and authority. Connect with Leonard at LinkedIn or GhostwritingInk.com. NCET produces education and networking events to help people explore business and technology.
