Rising Stars: Meet Toni Porter

Today we’d like to introduce you to Toni Porter. 

Hi Toni, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
DJ Candle Light emerged over the initial Covid19 lockdown. I already had a love for music, but the lockdown made me get creative. I’m a single mom to a toddler and you most definitely have to keep them entertained. So, music is the best choice and dancing helps burn off some good energy. However, I had no clue that I would fall in love with DJing and get hired post quarantine. 

Music is truly a universal language that everyone understands. It brings family and friends together; it can also be healing and therapeutic. Quarantine was a very trying time for everyone and I just decided one day I would just go live on Facebook and give it a try. I was amazed at the response from my peers and associates. We were on lockdown and it was a great way to pass the time by enjoying music with friends virtually. 

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It hasn’t been a smooth or rough road, it has been a more of an interesting road because this was a new endeavor. I had to really take the time to educate myself on the craft/artistry of DJing. It’s not a process you can rush, it really takes years to master the art. And even then, things will still continuously evolve. I embrace this journey and just continue to share the craft with others. 

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am known first as being ‘The Candle Lady” and owner of Toni’s Collection which specializes in home fragrance products. I have been in business the last 10 years selling my candles and then expanding into more home fragrance products. So naturally, when I stumbled upon DJing, I was trying to figure out a way to tie both companies together. And then it hit me, I’m known as the candle lady, so Dj Candle Light just fit perfectly with the brand. 

I am mostly proud of the impact I have made and I’m only a couple years in as a DJ. I love seeing people have a good time, smiling, laughing, and dancing. It’s also a great stress reliever because you can just let loose and let the music move you. 

I think what sets me apart from others, is the experience and vibe my clients feel with me. My clients end up feeling like extended family by the time we depart after their events. 

Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
I am only child, so I loved to be around people. I believe my personality is outgoing, but I’m still very reserved until I warm up. I played basketball for the majority of my life growing up and through high school. I have just always loved to have fun and entertain. I believe it was destined for me to be a DJ because I loved music & dancing as a kid. Michael Jackson was my absolute favorite artist because he really entertained you. 

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.toniscollection.com/djcandlelight
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/djcandlelight/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DjCandleLight