After growing up in a household full of inspiration, and learning what fashion really was through her style icons, her mother and grandmother, Tamiko Hardgrove developed a desire to make people both look and feel good. Combining her creativity and flare for crafts and fashion, Tamiko developed a line of scented candles called Helen Julia that can give any overworked, tired and stressed out mom and business woman the feeling of peace in a hectic world. With unique scents like Terrycloth Robe, Sexy Suede and Soft Mink, she has created a business and product that provide inspiration and beauty to many!
How would you describe your business in exactly three adjectives?
Luxury. Classic. Natural.
What are your most popular products or services?
Our most popular products are our hand-poured beautifully packaged scented soy candles. A particular best-seller is our Cashmere Cloud Soy Candle scented in Amber, Jasmine and Musk.
People may be surprised to know…
The name Helen Julia was inspired by my grandmothers; Helen and Julia.
What or who inspired you to start your business?
Having a passion for both beauty and candles, I had no luck finding great scents combined with beautiful packaging. Therefore, I was forced to create my own. And thus, Helen Julia was born!
Who is your role model or mentor?
My role model is my grandmother, Julia Annette. I am blessed to be able to listen to her wisdom on life. Grandma knows best… “When you receive love, you give love.” -Julia Annette
What business mistake have you made that you will not repeat?
Saying “No” to a project that I thought wouldn’t be worth my time. Turns out, I should have said “Yes”. It was worth my time to work on a celebrity client’s candles. The client wasn’t revealed until after I said “No”.
How do you spend your free time?
I spend my free time with my family. My two year old niece is the cutest to watch as she explores and discovers what she’s capable of doing.
What is your indulgence?
My indulgence is shopping at my favorite apparel store for new designs (hopefully on sale).
Where is your favorite place to go with your girlfriends?
My favorite place to go with girlfriends is Sunday brunch. There are so many great places in NYC. We just have to pick one on a nice early afternoon for girlie chat!
What do you CRAVE? In business? In life?
I crave being happy doing what I love! Life is short and I intend to make it sweet!
Favorite Places:
Soho Sanctuary Day Spa (the eucalyptus sauna is heavenly!), Hotel Gansevoort Spa for a mani and pedi, and Soho House to end the day for an upscale social scene.
Favorite Things:
My blackberry – I never leave home without it, my Louis Vuitton Speedy (my quick grab and go bag), Ugg boots because they are the most comfy to run errands in, and my black leggings that are super comfy to wear with my Uggs.
Visit on the Web: helenjulia.com
Facebook
Twitter
Pinterest
YouTube
CRAVE Blog