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Thank you so much, Shawntelle, for agreeing to talk to the People's Redlands Post!
Find Black Box Candle Company at https://www.blackboxcandleco.com/.
When did you start Black Box Candle Company and what inspired you to start it?
I started Black Box Candle in March of 2019 and officially opened in December of 2019. The year prior, my mental health was at an all time low as I was diagnosed with GAD (General Anxiety Disorder). I remember operating at a high level of stress everyday and I knew something would have to change. I started making candles to relieve stress and lit them as an act of self-care. I was lighting a candle everyday but it really allowed me to create the space I needed while relaxing. When my family and friends smelled my product, they pushed me to take this a step further and to share this with others and I’m so glad I listened! I feel our closest support group can recognize the gifts that we sometimes don’t see and I’m beyond grateful for them seeing me in the ways I couldn’t.
What is your connection to the Redlands area?
I was born and raised in Redlands! Born at Redlands community hospital, proud Terrier alum and former employee of the U of R, I will always have a special place in my heart for my hometown.
When your candles first made their way to Olive Ave. Market, you mentioned having your products in Redlands was a huge deal, like you had broken a barrier. Can you tell me more about that?
Sure! Being raised in Redlands as a young Black female, I have always felt a sense of connection to the community but I also always out of place. It is no secret that the demographic of Redlands is predominately White. I grew up not seeing many examples of Black business owners in our city and especially a Black females at that. When I began creating my candles, expression of culture is what poured out of me the most. I realized I needed an outlet for culture because I often had/ have to suppress that piece of myself the most. When OAM reached out, it felt like I was fully seen as my whole self and even more so, they enjoyed it! Selling candles there definitely healed some of conflictions I had always felt in Redlands. I was enough. That meant the world to me.
Many of your candles are explicitly made with Black audiences in mind (which is amazing!). Have you received any negative reactions to this? Can you tell us about positive ones?
I actually have never heard anything negative about my focus on Black culture! Lol maybe nobody has felt the need to share with me directly but I also believe a few things contribute to that.
- My business was created on the pillars of culture, self care and community. I have always stayed true to these pillars and share the purpose of those pillars any chance I get. Even on product packaging!
- I do create candles with other identities in mind so there is usually always something that most can relate to.
- Lastly, people mostly just want to support Black owned businesses. I have so many amazing customers who support not because they want or need candles, but rather just want to support me in this business venture. These are also the perfect gifts so It’s been really dope to see folks buy for their Black friends, spouses, family members etc. Being able to help others give intentionally warms my heart!
Last time we spoke, you mentioned some big dreams for your business. I know you’re taking a break for a while and are selling current inventory til it’s gone. Are there still visions for something exciting in the future?
Absolutely! I’m at a point in life where I can go a few different ways and that in its self is exciting ! I’m not sure just yet where the path will lead me, but I am huge on following my heart on what feels best so I know I will end up where I’m supposed to be.
Are there other rad local creators you love?
Not a creator per se but she is the FIRST Black woman to own a business in Redlands. She just opened a party venue called Venue 38 in the Tri city center near Big Lots and CVS. I mean WOW am I right?!?! Definitely recommend checking her and her out!
And finally, which of your candles is your favorite and why?
This is such a hard question hahah like any candle lover, there is one for each mood! Also, like my mother says, “she doesn’t have any favorites” lol I do burn Hennything Is Possible and Amazing Grace more than anything but really does depend on the day.
