Meet Priscilla Resendiz | Candlemaker

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

Hi Priscilla, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I was in a horrible car accident in January of 2015 that led me to have a spinal cord injury (C4,C5) & left me paralyzed from my neck down. I was in and out of surgeries because I also had a facial injury that needed cosmetic surgery. I wasn’t conscious for the first couple days so my family would catch me up on what would happen. During one of my surgeries my heart stopped and had to be resuscitated and I vividly remember the doctor saying, “she’s back.” Another occasion I was sleeping and overheard my neurosurgeon telling my parents that I’d never walk again I heard my mom cry out but I remained calm I felt at peace as weird as that sounds but I know that came from God and my family’s prayers. I was surrounded by so much love and I knew it wouldn’t be that way I was determined to get my independence back. I wasn’t sure how severe my injury was because I felt no pain. I was in the ICU for two weeks which were the longest two weeks of my life. I slowly started to regain motion back and started off first with my left thumb. I then got transferred to a rehab center where I had physical and ortho therapy and regained some of my ability to walk 6 months later. Fast forward to four years later I had already adapted to a life that seemed a bit different than the ordinary. I accepted that I wasn’t going to have a nine to five like I used to. I felt lost with no purpose so I knew that it was time to come up with something to do with my free time because I had tons. February of 2019 I decided to learn about candles. I have always loved them I mean who doesn’t? They bring such comfort and warmth to any place and it was part of my self care during my recovery still is. On a Monday morning I googled “how to make candles” and it led me to a lot of articles and videos. I needed to inform myself first so I started with articles and it seemed pretty self explanatory. I’m a visual person so I was excited to watch videos and I came upon one where they listed everything with links so you can shop for material and I did I was so excited. Once I received it I believe it was 10pm and I couldn’t wait so I tried it out and realized it was harder than it looked. There was a lot of trial and error and almost quit but I had enough material to try one last time and I told myself if it failed I had to brainstorm again and try something different. I redid everything again followed each step carefully and thankfully it came out better. I let it cure for about 2 weeks and the cold throw and hot throw was beautiful. It was the start of something beautiful. From there we are here now growing not only do I produce candles and pillar candles but also car diffusers, reed diffusers and room sprays it’s been quite a ride but worth it.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I make hand poured candles, pillar candles, car diffusers, reed diffusers and room sprays. I was focused just on candles but I love anything and everything that has to do with self care. So as I was brainstorming my business name I knew I wanted to start with candles but I also wanted to leave room to create other things that you can include in your self care routine. Aromas By Cilla was created at 1 am on a Monday night and It’s been a non ending learning experience. I use clean ingredients to create my different aroma products and make everything with love. My craft has been therapeutic for me and always hope that it brings my customers happiness. It wasn’t easy getting to where I’m at a lot of bumps and creative burnouts have came along but every time I talk to a customers and they express their love for my products it’s what keeps me going. throughout the years I have had amazing opportunities and have learned that what is meant for you will be no matter what. I’ve also learned the hard way that when it’s only one person running everything it can get super stressful that can make you want to quit, but listening to your mind and body is very important to keep your business going. Overall making and creating will forever be a love language of mine and I can’t wait to be in stores and able to reach your homes with a touch of Aromas By Cilla.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
San Diego, California is where it’s at. I was born and raised in San Diego county but never realized all the hidden gems we have. There are so many delicious food spots that can satisfy any craving. Convoy in Kearny Mesa has the best Asian food, Little Italy speaks for itself and downtown San Diego has the best hangout spots. If you feel like relaxing and taking it slow you have a couple beach spots to pick from. San Diego has the best weather it’s super bipolar but regardless feels good.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
God, my parents, family and friends. I am blessed to have the greatest support system. Their love, prayers and support has had an impact in my recovery & business they have always been by my side. When self doubt or overthinking has kicked in there is always someone there to pick me up and give me encouragement to keep going. I know I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for my loved ones and their continuous prayers, love and support.

Website: Coming Soon

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aromas.by.cilla?igsh=MWQ1ZGUxMzBkMA==

Image Credits
Professional photos are by Bianca Romero Instagram: @biancaromerophoto