Meet Shianne Woods | Chandler and Design Manager

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

Hi Shianne, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I was missing creativity in my life. I had been searching for years for a way to be able to supplement my income and be artistic again. Then one day it occurred to me, you love candles. Why not make your own and share them with others?

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I’ve been in the Design industry for over 20 years now. Starting with custom window coverings & bedding. I now specialize in cabinetry. Along the way, I’ve lost some of my spark for design. It was no longer enjoyable, and just a way to pay my bills. After doing a lot of job hopping the past couple of years, I realized some of the issue was me. I no longer had a passion to do what I’ve been doing. I started my candle making journey Spring of 2020 in the middle of a pandemic. I was now stuck in the house, working from home full time, virtual schooling my oldest two and potty training a toddler. I was stir crazy and stuck and needed an outlet. On a whim, I bought a kit online and the rest is history! I felt so at ease and free when I was creating. And I could share this joy with others by taking them on a scent journey.
I pride myself on cultivating unique scent combinations that you don’t find in retail stores, but, I also sprinkle in my versions of classics that you already know and love. Every single product I create is handmade, and I hope that my customers can feel the care that goes into each one. I put a lot of energy into each item, from wax melts and candles to bath products and I stand behind everything I put out there.
I think the biggest thing I’ve had to overcome is the testing process. It’s so meticulous and so necessary, but man can it be time consuming- especially when dealing with industry-wide shortages. At times it has been nearly impossible to get jars, wax and wicks. It can really push back putting new products out there or even restocking on current items. Clear communication with your customers is key. They’re very understanding.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I’m a big foodie, so I’m always looking for good food. It doesn’t have to be the most expensive, just good. Places I love to eat at right now are Roka Akor in River Oaks. Rouxpour is another place that’s high on my charts right now. Mai’s Restaurant downtown, mmmmm. Mikki’s Cafe for some oxtails. Caribbean Jerk Cuisine on Richmond Ave. I can talk about food all day long. As far as the sights, I feel like I’m still learning Houston everyday and I’ve been here my entire adult life. Sometimes I like to just drive through Downtown Houston and admire the architecture. City Centre is great too. Live music, scenery, food, shopping, what’s not to love. Surfside Beach and just watch the waves and feel the sun.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’d love to dedicate this journey to my beautiful family. They’ve stood by me through the long days, and even longer nights. They help me brainstorm new scents and ideas. They love me through the impulse decisions of business ownership. And, hopefully, help me to reap the rewards of my hard work.

Website: www.shissoothingscents.com

Instagram: shis_soothing_scents

Facebook: ShisSoothingScents