Atlanta, Georgia Local News
Black Business Profile: ByLeCreme
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Whether planning a date night for your boo, looking to hang out with your closest friends, or just wanting to explore solo, each day should be filled with memorable experiences and time shared with those that mean the most to us.
ByLeCreme is a luxury candle maker and retailer based in downtown Atlanta. ByLeCreme offers luxury candle and fragrance making experiences within its brick-and-mortar inviting Atlanta natives and visitors to curate candle and fragrance takeaways throughout an elevated experience for singles and groups alike.
For those not based in Atlanta, ByLeCreme offers an assortment of candles and candle accessories that make perfect gifts for the season.
The Atlanta Voice spoke with founder of ByLeCreme, Sakari Sanders, about her business, business plans, and advice for other entrepreneurs.
The Atlanta Voice: Why did you decide to start your ByLeCreme?
Sakari Sanders: I decided to start ByLeCrème because I recognized a need for a brand that extended beyond product, but that spoke to a lifestyle rooted in luxury, confidence and transformation for the body and home. I initially worked in an art gallery and the entrepreneur in me wanted to sell everything that complimented the piece of art in a home, in addition to the art itself. ByLeCrème is more than a brand; it’s a celebration of individuality, self-confidence, and an encouragement to express one’s unique identity. We embody the essence of being the creme de la creme, offering unique experiences and luxury lifestyle products for those seeking something extraordinary.
AV: Was there a moment that inspired you to start this business?
SS: Starting ByLeCrème was a journey sparked by various moments in my life. Back in high school, I discovered my knack for business, and at Spelman College, I fine-tuned my skills in critical thinking through the creative lenses of art and marketing. Juggling the responsibilities of being a single mother, this pursuit of financial independence wasn’t just about stability—it became my guiding star, giving me these feelings of confidence and autonomy where I didn’t have it before. In spotting a gap in the market, I realized ByLeCrème had to be more than just products; it had to embody a lifestyle, embrace certain values, and offer experiences. At the time, I noticed that everyone wanted their home to have the same aesthetic – the artwork, decor and candles were all too similar. I wanted to create a decor/candle line that stood out, started conversations, and when people looked at the products, they knew it was a “ByLeCrème” piece not only from the overall look but also the quality of the product. I wanted to build a brand that resonated across generations—something my grandmother, mother, daughter, and future generations could connect with – a brand that tells the story of each person’s unique journey through time.
AV: What makes your candle brand, luxury?
SS: It’s all about the details and the experience we’re crafting. We’re not mass-producing these – each ByLeCrème candle is hand-poured in small batches, and that’s the secret sauce for creating that one-of-a-kind scent. But it’s not just about the process, it’s about the consumer journey. ByLeCrème is committed to helping individuals unveil their best selves. Our custom candles and fragrances are more than just a pleasant scent, they are meant to bring out the feeling of being the best version of you. The question, “Why do you smell so good?” becomes an invitation to share the confidence that ByLeCrème inspires.
AV: Is there a mentor in your life that inspired/inspires you as a business owner?
SS: In this journey, I’ve found tremendous value in the support of mentors, like Shari Mhango a serial entrepreneur and the owner of Koncept House Anthony Gee. They and others have been instrumental in helping me navigate challenges and foster growth. As a Black woman in a DTC business, I recognize the importance of humility and continuous learning. Leveraging these opportunities has been transformative, contributing to the evolution and success of ByLeCrème.
AV: Tell me a little bit about the ByLeCreme experience?
SS: The best part about the custom ByLeCreme experiences, is that it’s 100% catered to your wants and needs:
· Luxury Candle Making Experience: You get everything you need to create your own 8oz luxury soy candle. From picking a vessel and blending your fragrance to adding cool stuff like dried blooms or crystals, it’s a hands-on adventure to make a candle that’s uniquely yours. Pricing starting at $99 for a public session and $1,000 for a private session. To book, visit https://www.bylecreme.com/luxury-experience
Luxury Perfume Making Experience: Crafting your own signature 1.7oz eau de parfum. Happening weekly in Downtown Atlanta, this in-person event is led by expert perfumers who walk you through the basics of perfume making. With their guidance, you’ll create a unique fragrance using top-notch ingredients. Pricing starts at $65 for a public session. To book, visit https://www.bylecreme.com/luxury-experiences
AV: What are your business goals for the remainder of the year?
SS: Looking ahead, we are strategically expanding our outreach to new markets via consumers who share our commitment to inclusivity.
AV: Any advice to future business owners about taking the plunge?
SS: To aspiring business owners considering taking the plunge, I’d say, drawing from my own journey, it’s okay not to have all the answers from the start. I certainly didn’t get everything right immediately. It took some trial and error to discover what sets ByLeCrème apart. Through this process, I’ve learned to value the importance of honing your business skills, particularly as a Black women entrepreneur. You’ll find the most success when you find a balance between creativity and strategy. Embrace the learning curve, be open to adapting, and recognize that growth often comes when you push past those nervous butterflies.
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Isaiah Singleton
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