By: Ajalee Pulley
HOUSTON -- People flowed in and out Simply Scents by Shan, a Houston-based candle company for the grand opening of their second location on Oct.3.
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SSS, created by Shanquita Greggs, an Air Force Veteran and former flight attendant, started her business nearly 15 years ago.
The first store was opened near the Texas Medical Center several years ago with a limited number of candle scents. Now, the brand offers more than 30 different scents in candles, lotions, oils, sprays, in addition to a bath and body line. SSS is responsible for the great aroma in thousands of homes, offices and event spaces.
All of the candles are handmade and triple-scented, which allows the aroma to stand out and last longer. The candles are not only in the two boutiques stores, but are located in seven Walgreens stores in the Houston area.
"I want to make people smile and give people hope. If you just believe in yourself, your dreams can come true. This is a dream that I am living and I am so excited about the future," Greggs said. "I want to grow SSS into a household name, and be international not only limit myself to candles and scents, but have a brand that you will be able to go anywhere Home goods Marshals and see the SSS logo and know that you are really going to get a hot product."
SSS was created out of a need. After leaving the Air Force and becoming a flight attendant, Greggs was faced with losing her job during 9/11. After watching Martha Stewart make candles, she decided to give it a try as Christmas gifts, and the rest is history. Greggs first made the candles out of her home until she was able to move into her store.
The brand has grown over the years from word of mouth. Greggs says the candles sale themselves.
Greggs adds that she takes her time when it comes to picking the scents of her products, and she likes to tease people saying, "I have a nose for scents."
SSS tries new fragrances every two to three weeks and if they are a top sellers, then they are keepers.
SSS has a variety of scents for fall, summer and the Christmas season.
"There is no limit to what we can do with the candles, Shan is my name and candles is my game!" Greggs said.