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From Kitchen Side Hustle to Sephora: How Harlem Candle Co. Hit Millions Without Investors

From Kitchen Side Hustle to Sephora: How Harlem Candle Co. Hit Millions Without Investors

Update: 2025-12-11

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Harlem Candle Company founder Teri Johnson started pouring candles in her Harlem kitchen with no budget and no team—just a clear sense of purpose. That focus helped her turn handmade gifts into a nationally recognized brand rooted in culture, design, and storytelling. In this episode, she shares how she validated demand early, built trust online without samples, and made tough decisions to protect her peace and profits.

For more on Harlem Candle Co and show notes click here

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From Kitchen Side Hustle to Sephora: How Harlem Candle Co. Hit Millions Without Investors

From Kitchen Side Hustle to Sephora: How Harlem Candle Co. Hit Millions Without Investors

Teri Johnson, Serena Smith, Shopify