Today we’d like to introduce you to Brittany Ortiz-Rivera.
Brittany, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I just had my son, I was a first-time mom and I made the decision to not go back to my corporate job. I was dealing with some serious postpartum depression, everything hit me hard all at once, then came covid.
I wasn’t used to being home all day so I started to search for things to do, something to take my mind off of my anxieties and depression. I have always loved candles and for my home to smell good, but with having a newborn at home I couldn’t have candles that were too strong. Which lead me to candle-making. I started to make candles at home and it would take my mind off of all my worries.
I actually loved what I was doing! I would research for the best products I can find for people like me, who suffer from allergies, have kids and pets at home. Once I started to make candles my family & friends started asking me to mail them candles.
That’s when I realized I should try and make this a business and I did, I am so glad I did.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It definitely has not been a smooth road. One of my biggest problems was time management. I am getting better at it these days, but I definitely learned a lot my first year to plan ahead.
There were times when I would have no jars because I would wait until the last minute to order supplies, then items would be on back order. Now that I’ve learned my lesson I no longer have these issues lol.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I make soy wax candles that are infused with essential oils and cotton wicks for a cleaner burn.
Sprays that are versatile that can be used for your room, linens, and body. They are vegan base with essential oils.
Reed diffusers and different candle molds. But, what most people know are the women body candles (The Goddess Collection) that come in different colors and sizes because not everyone has the same shape or color.
My brand is about empowerment. To empower people to be their most authentic self and whatever you struggle with to know that you aren’t the only one. I do this by naming some of the candles like Fearless, Passion, Love Thy Self, Power, Inspire, Peace etc. I purposely choose oils that are known to have healing properties such as lavender, patchouli, tea tree, eucalyptus. You find a candle that best fits your mood.
I am focusing on expanding my business to not only have candles but body butters and soaps that help with dry and sensitive skin.
If we knew you growing up, how would we have described you?
I grew up in NYC, I was a city kid who was quiet but very observant. I had to be. I loved playing sports, dancing, shopping in the city, anything that was going to be a good time.
Contact Info:
- Email: thebrilauren@gmail.com
- Website: Glowcobythebrilauren.com
- Instagram: @Glowcobytbl
- Facebook: Glow & Co. By The Bri Lauren
