Hidden Gems: Meet Shonta’ Eastern of Mahogany Essential

Today we’d like to introduce you to Shonta’ Eastern.

Hi Shonta’, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I started Mahogany Essential after so many dissatisfying scents that gave me migraines because of the harsh chemicals so many uses in their products.

I spent so much money on candles until I got fed up with the overcrowded tables and cabinet space, with the same problem of migraines and allergy flare ups. My mission for Mahogany Essential is to provide eco-friendly, phthalate free candles, wax melts and room sprays for customers that suffers from allergies to enjoy the ambiance of a lighted candle. Every candle is handmade and hand-poured using soy wax and essential oils. I am where I am today is because of the love and support from my customers who are truly fans of Mahogany Essential and because of that I am beyond grateful.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
There has definitely been some struggles along the way in creating candles. Some struggles were candles were smoking when lit, candle wax was not burning evenly and trying to find the right formula so the wax blends well with the oils. Creating the perfect content with use of photos to my targeted audience was a challenge but with the help of so many apps such Canva as helped me along the way.

Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
When I was getting my Master’s Degree in healthcare administration I was excited to be a part of a growing industry that focuses on the health and well-being of individuals that rely on health care to live a healthy life. My role with Savista Solutions is to assist individuals that are uninsured with their state Medicaid. I work closely with case managers and the patient until a determination is reached. I’m known for my outgoing personality and my ability to adapt to change. What sets me aside from other is my intangible skills, self-confidence and having integrity.

If you think about it, most employers want an optimistic candidate. Being optimistic helps motive an individual or even a team. When time is of the essence, I’m quick to tackle the project that others may be reluctant to take on. I’m proud of the women I’ve become today. I’ve started Mahogany Essential with a “thought” that I wrote on a sticky note and now I’m living proof that dreams do come true. We can be anything we put our minds to, it’s you vs. you so taking that next step to grow your business is crucial.

Mahogany Essential is bigger than just a brand, it’s my lifestyle, I put a lot of love and dedication to my brand to ensure I stand behind my mission which is to continue to create and provide the best candles selections that are allergy sensitivity to every customer to allow them to enjoy the mood and ambiance of a lighted candle.

The crisis has affected us all in different ways. How has it affected you and any important lessons or epiphanies you can share with us?
The COVID-19 pandemic changed life as we know it and it may have changed us as an individual, from our daily routines to our life goals and priorities. I’ve learned that not everyone practiced preventive measures such as wearing masks, Maintaining a 6-foot distance, and washing hands frequently. Learning how respiratory pathogens and viruses spread from one person to another is critical and not a lot of people were educated on these types of pathogens.

Pricing:

• $11.00 for 8.5 ounce candles
• $5.00 for Car diffusers
• $5.00 for wax melts
• $8.00 for 4ounce scented burning oils
• $5.00 for Room Sprays

Contact Info:

• Email: mahoganyessential@gmail.com
• Website: www.mahoganyessential.com
• Instagram: https://www.Instagram.com/mahoganyessentialllc
• Facebook: https://www.Facebook.com/mahoganyessentialllc