Meet Melissa Mondesir | Founder

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

Hi Melissa, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Honestly, the idea for my business, VSSL, didn’t come from an intense planning session or a long-term goal—I wholeheartedly believe it was given to me by God. VSSL is a faith-based home fragrance brand that pairs scripture with scent to cultivate stillness, provide Godly encouragement, and help people reconnect with God and themselves.

The concept came to me in 2019 during a short walk from church to my car. By the time I got home, I had the name, the mission, and even the core product ideas in mind. It all came together so clearly, it felt like my only job was to obey and execute (which I will admit took some time because of my fear of failure). Over time, I began to layer in strategy—identifying my audience, refining my brand, and building a product line that reflected both spiritual depth and minimalist design.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
What sets VSSL apart is its intentionality—nothing is created just to be pretty or to fill a shelf. From start to finish, every element is purposeful. Our cement vessels are handcrafted, mirroring how God forms each of us with care and individuality. Every scent is inspired by Scripture. We take time to meditate on a verse, then build a fragrance that captures the feeling of it—so people can not only read the Word, but experience it in a new, tangible way.

Each product comes with a scripture card to help people engage with God’s Word, and a curated playlist to continue the encouragement through sound. It’s designed to be a holistic experience—one that helps people slow down, find stillness, and deepen their intimacy with the Lord.

Building VSSL hasn’t been easy. I’ve faced self-doubt and the reality of growing a brand while learning as I go. But the biggest lesson I’ve learned is that consistency and obedience matter more than perfection. When God gives you a vision, He also equips you to carry it forward—even if the path looks uncertain.

What I want the world to know is that VSSL isn’t just about candles—it’s about creating moments of peace, beauty, and presence. It’s a reminder that God is near, even in the small things. And if one of our products can help someone feel that—even for a moment—I’ve done what I was called to do.

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?
What a fun question! We love a good bestie visit. Here’s how I’d break up the week:

Sunday – early morning church service at ONE LA then brunch at Castaway Burbank
Monday – a movie at Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, dinner at Same, Same Thai
Tuesday – museum visit to The Broad, food and wine at Good Clean Fun
Wednesday – afternoon tea at Dahlia, see a show at the Pantages Theatre, dinner at TAO
Thursday – shopping day at Westfield Century City, Proper Sounds at Cara Cara during sunset
Friday – brunch at Poppy & Rose, drinks at Blind Barber
Saturday – early morning hike at Griffith Park, dinner and drinks at Zinque DTLA

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?
First and foremost, all the praise for where I am today goes to God. I have no idea where I’d be if I never encountered His faithfulness, enduring love, and constant presence throughout the ebb and flow of life.

The next shoutout goes to my mother who continues to model a work ethic and tenacity that inspires me to this day. Her constant support in all I do truly keeps me going, especially during times when I’m filled with doubt and uncertainty about my ideas and aspirations.

And finally, my friends. The way they’ve rallied behind me and supported me since my launch in October 2023 is a blessing. They’ve spoken words of encouragement, purchased( and shared) products, prayed for me, and passed along opportunities to help my business grow. For each and every one of them I am very grateful.

Website: https://www.vsslcandlesla.com

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

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/vsslcandles/

Image Credits
2J9A3864-2.jpg + IMG_7981 (Devon – https://www.instagram.com/nicewit.thalenz/)

The remaining images are my own.