Meet Jolene Tench | Business Owner

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jolene Tench and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi jolene, can you share a quote or affirmation with us?
“Ambition is a dream with a V-8 engine.” – Elvis Presley

To me, this means that with enough drive and determination, you can turn any dream into something powerful and real. I’ve always been a huge Elvis fan, so this quote holds a special place in my heart, and it also fits my life perfectly. Whether it was starting my businesses, becoming a wife, or stepping into motherhood, I’ve had to find the energy and focus to keep moving forward. It’s a reminder that no matter how big the challenge, if you put your whole heart into it, you can make it happen.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’m an entrepreneur who runs several businesses, including 100% soy candles and handcrafted incense, which I sell online and at local markets. What sets me apart is that I make everything myself — candles poured fresh in my kitchen, incense blended and hand-soaked in my backyard.

My journey started when my husband, knowing I loved candles, came home one day with all the supplies and said, “Now you’ll never have to buy another candle again.” I knew nothing about candle-making, but through years of trial and error, I mastered the craft and began selling at markets in 2014.

In 2017, my husband and I launched the Waterfront Market in Morro Bay to give local makers a place to showcase their work. Then, in 2023, I took over California Incense Company from a close friend and mentor who retired. Just weeks later, a fire destroyed our workshop — but we rebuilt, recreated every blend, and came back stronger than ever.

The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that resilience and determination can turn any dream into reality — and that’s the same mindset I bring to my businesses, my marriage, and motherhood.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
SLO County is absolutely amazing — there’s so much to do, see, and taste! If my best friend was visiting for a week, here’s how I’d show them the best time ever:

Day 1 – Sunday:
Start with a hearty breakfast at Carla’s Country Kitchen in Morro Bay. Then take a short drive to Morro Rock to watch the sea otters play. For lunch, head to Giovanni’s Fish Market — their poke bowls, clam chowder, and fish & chips are out of this world. Afterward, stroll the Embarcadero for some local shopping (my favorite stop is The Shell Shop). End the day back in Los Osos with a walk through the Elfin Forest and dinner from Nardonnes Pizza.

Day 2 – Monday:
Start at the Los Osos Farmers Market, then take a scenic drive up Highway 1. Stop in Cayucos for lunch at Schooners (legendary calamari!), then head to Cambria for shopping along Main Street and a bite at either Main Street Grill or Cambria Pines Lodge. Continue to San Simeon to tour Hearst Castle and see the elephant seals, and finish at Ragged Point for breathtaking views and dinner at the restaurant there.

Day 3 – Tuesday:
Beach day in Morro Bay! Bring the pups to Morro Strand Off-Leash Dog Beach and spend the day relaxing by the ocean.

Day 4 – Wednesday:
Head to Pismo Beach for breakfast at Beach n’ Biscuits, then lunch at Splash Café. Browse the Pismo Summer Market on the pier from 4–7 PM, featuring local artists and crafters. Finish with dinner at Mo’s BBQ.

Day 5 – Thursday:
Explore Downtown San Luis Obispo. Breakfast at Louisa’s, shopping downtown, then lunch at Nick the Greek. In the evening, enjoy the famous SLO Farmers Market (6–9 PM) — my favorite bites are from Rib Line, Shin’s Sushi, and Shalimar Restaurant.

Day 6 – Friday:
Head north to Paso Robles for wine tasting at local vineyards. Wrap up the day with dinner at Firestone Walker Brewing Company.

Day 7 – Saturday:
End the trip back in Morro Bay at the Farmers Market for more local shopping and fresh finds. Lunch at either Baby Dudes or Sammy J’s — both make incredible smash burgers.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to dedicate this shoutout to my husband. He’s been by my side through every adventure, cheering me on, supporting my dreams, and helping me navigate the ups and downs. I truly wouldn’t be where I am today without his love, encouragement, and belief in me.

Other: https://www.facebook.com/JojosCandleCo
https://www.facebook.com/sloincense
https://www.facebook.com/waterfrontmarketmorrobayca

Image Credits
Jolene Tench
Casey Tench