Meet Onata Andujar | Fragrance Obsessed Candle Maker

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

Hi Onata, is there a quote or affirmation that’s meaningful to you?
Favorite Quote:

– Success is not final, failure is not fatal. It is the courage to continue that counts. Winston Churchill.

What does it mean to me?

– If my new ideas or even current processes fail it’s not the end of the world. It’s a time to get creative because success is always evolving.

What do I like about it?

– It motivates me to push through the tough times knowing there is a light at the end of the tunnel. It pushes me to think outside the box, revisit my goals and update them accordingly all while staying focused on the vision.

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’m a fragrance obsessed designer who founded Onata Fragrances in 2010. As someone who began suffering from severe allergies in her mid 30’s, I wanted to help people like me enjoy the beauty of scent. I sought to create beautifully packaged candles at an affordable price using fragrances to transform any room, any occasion without affecting the senses negatively. Originally from Fort Lauderdale, FL I have a strong love for my family and rescue dogs. I decided to make candles as gifts for family and friends with a candle making kit from my local store and instantly became deeply obsessed with aromatherapy and the art of candle making. The love for my family and dogs drives me to be successful so I can give back to my family and the rescue animal community. The rest is history.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
The fun starts watching the sunset from St Arnold’s Brewery or Buffalo Bayou Brewery. They have the most amazing skyline views in the city and not to mention great food and drinks. The Houston Museum of Nature Science and the Menil Art Gallery will take your breath away. Definitely have to hit up any artisan markets to support local. I’d even go down to Galveston Wharf for great food and shopping and San Leon’s Pier 6, both have great views by the water and great food options. We’d watch movies at the rooftop cinema and visit the Silo’s Art district. We’d even stroll through Herman Park and enjoy the birds chirping. Depending on the time of year I’d take them to catch a concert at Miller Outdoor Theater and check out the Cistern.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I could write a novel of all the people that have helped me grow but these are just a few.

I’m so grateful for my boyfriend Shane Duncan who has helped with everything in the business, from working events with me, to helping order supplies, make product do inventory, you name it he has and continues to help me. My mother who flies in from Florida every year to help with my holiday shows, always loving me even during my hard times and encouraging me to great things.

My first mentor was Peter Remington, motivational speaker and author of Success-aholic. He taught me how to set my goals, make a plan and take action. Ellyse Espinosa, Stateline Designs, always lifted my spirits, encouraged me at the perfect time even when she didn’t know it and as she grew she introduced me to others who also encouraged and supported. Geovanna White, IgniteHer Society Houston Chapter, did many collaborations with me and encouraged me to dream so big it scared me.

It takes a tribe to grow and succeed.

I dedicate this business to my mother who has inspired me to work hard, be kind, and have fun doing what I love.

Website: onatafragrances.com

Instagram: onata_fragrances

Linkedin: Onata Andujar

Twitter: OnataFragrances

Facebook: Onata Fragrances – Soy Candles, Soaps and more

Yelp: Onata Fragrances

Image Credits
Blip Photography