Meet Denniqua Sullivan | Candle Maker

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

Hi Denniqua, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Starting my own candle business was driven by a combination of personal experiences and a desire to channel my struggles with anxiety and PTSD into something positive. I find the experience of a candle therapeutic and calming. The glow and crackle of the wick allow me to remove myself from any perceived threat that occurs in my mind, and the act of breathing in the scent stimulates the Vagus Nerve which helps to relax me. Having majored in Psychology, I wanted to use my training to share that experience with others. My thought process was to design products that would bring customers to a place of serenity and allow them time to see their beauty within. I chose the name Imose because it literally means “beautiful”.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Imose is a clean ingredient candle making business that infuses mica into the wax and focuses on mental health and anxiety stands out uniquely from other candle brands in distinct ways:

Imose candles are crafted using clean burning ingredients for a reduced carbon footprint. This commitment appeals to customers who prioritize their health and well-being.

Infusing mica into the wax adds a unique touch. Mica provides a beautiful shimmer and visual appeal when the candles are lit, creating a captivating and enchanting experience that adds to the overall sensory experience.

Unlike many other candle brands, Imose specifically addresses the aspect of mental health, particularly anxiety. By consciously aligning products with this theme, I hope to establish a deep connection with individuals seeking relaxation, stress relief, and emotional support. Imose candles serve as a tool for creating a calm and comforting atmosphere, promoting mindfulness, and providing moments of respite from anxiety.

By openly discussing mental health challenges and providing resources or information related to anxiety management, I hope to create a safe and inclusive space for individuals who may be seeking not only candles but also a sense of community and encouragement.

Regarding this business, the thing I am most proud of is that I started a business. I had no formal training in starting a company, and I didn’t know exactly where to begin. I am proud of myself for overcoming all of that psychological inertia to create and grow the business that I have today. There are so many hats to wear when starting a business and each day I am learning something new. Today I might be the webmaster and tomorrow the tax accountant. I might be shipping and receiving on Thursday and the scent creator on Friday. Most days it’s a little of everything, but I wouldn’t trade the excitement and sense of accomplishment for the world. For those of you out there that have been considering starting your own business, I offer you my vote of confidence.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
During my best friend’s week-long visit, I would create an unforgettable experience for them. We would start with breakfast at a local café and enjoy pastries and coffee. For lunch, we would indulge in the famous turkey wings with a strawberry calypso drink at Dulan’s Soul Food Kitchen or savor delicious shrimp tacos at Mariscos Jalisco. Our itinerary would include a visit to Universal Studios for thrilling entertainment and a trip to The Huntington Botanical Garden to appreciate the beauty of nature.

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?
My first shoutout goes to my family; My parents for raising me to have the morals and values that I have today, My grandmother (Who we call Big Mama) for always being there for me as a shoulder to cry on or to help me see value where I may not have seen it myself, and my husband and boys for helping me out as I converted the game room into a candle making studio. I also want to send a second shoutout to photographer Jessica Castro Photography. Jessica has provided me with amazing photos, she’s naturally gifted and always has a positive attitude.

Website: https://imosecandleco.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imosecandleco/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/imose-candle-company?trk=public_profile_topcard-current-company

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@imosecandleco

Image Credits
Jessica Castro Photography