Meet Ariyon Allen | Owner of Szentz Candle Co.

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

Hi Ariyon, what do you attribute your success to?
The most important factor behind my success and brand is consistency.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Szentz Candle Company was started as a passion project. I started making candles for my home because I wanted candles that burned clean and smelled amazing. Most Candle companies use soy wax and wooden wicks to make clean burning candles. I use a unique blend of plant-based waxes and skin safe oils. The wicks are 100% cotton, handmade and dipped in the same wax. Due to the wax, my candles hold 10% more fragrance oil and burns longer, slower and even.

I had a lot of sleepless nights over thinking if I wanted to start a business or keep this gem to myself. After having guest over for dinner one evening, they complimented how my home smelled and how the candle covered the scent of what we were eating. They proceeded to ask ” Where did I buy my candles” I said ” I make them! Even after being asked to sell them, I was still unsure. I had no name for my company, no name for the candles, no price point, I had nothing.

After a week of praying over it and on it, I had a dream of the name and how my product looked. The next morning, I felt rejuvenated and was ready to start the process. I struggled in the beginning! I had the product and brand, but I didn’t have customers. It took three weeks to create a team of people that were amazing in their field. Even then, I wasn’t seeing a return.

Even during that time, I prayed and stayed consistent. It took almost three months before I realized, I was making money. I mean not enough to quit my day job but enough to cover my business expenses and put money away.

Szentz has been in business now 3 years and we still have good and bad days. One thing I have learned is to take a step back when things get tough. That step back usually helps me see things clearly. Since I started Szentz, my most proud moment is being recognized and considered to be apart of many events, podcast and magazine articles.

It did not happen over night, it just look like it did!

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.
For a weekend with the girls., we would definitely start with brunch at one of our favorites: Liberty Kitchen, Snooze or Sate Fair. Dinner we will have reservations at Tru Lucks or Ume Sushi Bar. We will close our night out dancing and smoking hookah at Uptown Hookah Lounge.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
A “Shoutout” is not really needed because I give them their roses and praises on a daily basis. GOD played a major role in my success! Yes, I have an amazing team of friends, family and mentors, but praying through the process has helped me stay focused and positive in those tough times.

Website: www.szentzbyaridesean.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/szentzbyaridesean

Facebook: www.facebook.com/szentzbyaridesean