Daily Inspiration: Meet Tamaya Wilkins

Today we’d like to introduce you to Tamaya Wilkins.  

Hi Tamaya, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
I have always been a business-savvy person. One of my first jobs was being a summer intern for a farmers’ market for a non-profit organization, GenesisHOPE. During this experience, I was taught the fundamentals of a business, trained on skills to sell a product, created a mock-up business, and pitched to vendors. This sparked my interest at a young age, but I just wasn’t sure how to apply this knowledge outside of that program. I went off to school and got a degree in the Health Field. Once I returned home from school in 2019, I began brainstorming my own business. I have a love for smell goods, and I am very handy with my hands. My goal is to always perfect every craft that I learn. I started to research everything about candles: from the candle market, waxes, jars, wicks, fragrance oils, etc. I wrote everything down in a notebook. I drew my own logo. I pitched my new business to anyone who would listen. I would humbly end every conversation with: It only MakeSense to MakeScents to MakeCents. The only problem I had was making time for my business while working a salary pay job. COVID happened in 2020, shut everything down, and I was now granted the time I wanted and needed to pour into my business. MakeScents was created May 1, 2020.

MakeScents is the luxury aromatherapy line featuring products that are hand-crafted with natural ingredients to provide a wholesome and intentional experience. Hemp oil can improve your immune system, relieve pain, nourish, moisturize, reduce inflammation in your skin, enhance mood, and promote deeper relaxation. For that reason, it is the main ingredient in every product. Everything is custom-made and manufactured by me, down to the scents, name of the candles, and labeling. I take pride in knowing I did all of this on my own and funded it all out of my pocket.

Since opening in 2020, MakeScents has been a part of many events around the Metro Detroit area including pop-up shops, farmer markets, private events, etc. MakeScents also serves as a wholesaler for other small businesses, creating custom body care and home products

As I approach year 3, I am just so grateful for growth. I am excited for the next 3 years and the next 3 after that and to continue. My products are made with pure intentions and energy. This alone sets me apart from anyone else.

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
Some struggles I have encountered along the way were more internal than external. Sure, all small business encounter peak and down seasons throughout the year. All small businesses will encounter wasted products or defective products. My biggest struggle would be internally, like doubting things will sell or doubting customers would like the scents and products I provide. To my surprise, I always exceed expectations. That doubt will always be there just because I think of myself as a perfectionist, and this business is my baby, so I want it to be as perfect as possible. Nothing will ever be perfect… As time has passed and I approach year 3, I am starting to realize that I have great products and a phenomenal business. If I didn’t, my business would have ended a long time ago. It has withstood a pandemic, recession, and a changing economy. Balancing my business and my career can be difficult at times, as I am still trying to manage my time with business, but so far, I am proud of the obstacles I have overcome.

Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
As I would love to solely focus and work my business every day, those cards just have not aligned for me yet. I currently work as an Academic Interventionist for DPSCD. I help students from grades 1st-4th improve their reading and writing skills daily. I love this position because I am helping kids with their foundation to education, and I get to be myself while doing it. When I am not working with kids, I am hosting private candle-making events for date night, girls’ nights, or self-care night or I am at a pop-up shop event to showcase and sell my products. I am a hard worker, I am diligent, and pay attention to detail. I take my work very seriously as it is a part of my reputation and rapport that is being built. All the work I do, whether it be in the school or out, is done with passion, love, and care. I am proud of constantly showing up for myself, my students, and my community. I am leaving my mark on this world in a positive way by the work that I do.

What sort of changes are you expecting over the next 5-10 years?
Within the next 5-10 years, I see big things for MakeScents. I will be an international company dominating the candle industry. I plan to add more products, partnerships, and business under the MakeScents umbrella. It doesn’t just stop at aromatherapy. I am excited to see this business grow.

Pricing:

• Candles: $10-$30
• Body Products: $6-$15
• Private Candle-Making Events: $40+
• Wholesale Products: $5-$30

Contact Info:

• Website: www.shopmakescents.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shop.makescents/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shopmakescents/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tamaya-wilkins-2b9298172