Ampersand Fine Candles

As the founder, my objective was to create a unique brand of organic, handmade candles that stood out in the market. The goal was to develop high-quality products with unique and attractive packaging, establish strong relationships with major retailers, and ensure widespread distribution and brand recognition.

To achieve this, I handled day-to-day operations, including sourcing high-quality organic materials and managing shipping and inventory control. The unique and attractive packaging was a major factor in the brand's success. I designed and hand-printed the packaging using silk screen, which made each product stand out. The fragrances used were unique, and the naming conventions of the candles were charming and memorable. For example, the honey citrus and passion fruit candle was named "Don't Worry, Be Happy," and the lavender candle was named "Indigo." The candles were available in a variety of sizes, including mini 1oz travel size candles. Popular fragrances included Olive, Fig, and Café Macchiato.

I developed a strong brand identity that resonated with customers and differentiated Ampersand Fine Candles in the market. The marketing strategy involved creating appealing branding and promotional materials to attract and retain customers. I successfully negotiated contracts and developed relationships with major retailers such as Tokyu Hands, Loft, Today’s Special, Niko And…, Journal Standard, Urban Research, Japan Airlines and Ron Herman. These partnerships helped to increase the brand’s visibility and reach.

Under my leadership, Ampersand Fine Candles grew into a well-recognized brand, known for its high-quality, organic products and unique packaging. The brand’s presence in major retailers significantly boosted sales and brand recognition. The success of Ampersand Fine Candles is a testament to my ability to manage a diverse set of responsibilities and achieve business growth through effective branding and strategic partnerships.