By Tammy Reese | Thursday, February 6, 2025 | 7:15 PM ET
Every great brand starts with a vision, but turning that vision into something with lasting purpose takes passion, resilience, and authenticity. For Darlene Parks, founder of LeneNicole Candle Co., her journey into the world of candle-making was not just about crafting beautiful scents — it was about creating an experience that resonates with people on a deeper level.
Based in Maryland, just minutes from Washington, D.C., LeneNicole Candle Co. is a Black woman-owned business that specializes in high-quality, non-toxic candles designed to reflect emotions and moods. After realizing that big-box brands lacked authenticity and relatability, Darlene set out to create candles that tell a story — one that embraces the mind, body, and soul. Her collections go beyond luxury; they are deeply personal, transforming everyday moments into something meaningful.
Finding Purpose Through Creativity
The inspiration for LeneNicole Candle Co. came from a passion for self-expression and the transformative power of scent. Starting with no capital and a kitchen workspace, Darlene built her brand from the ground up with resilience and creativity. She believes candles are more than just products — they are vessels for memories, self-care, and connection. Each fragrance blend and collection is crafted with intention, allowing customers to celebrate life’s moments while embracing comfort and joy in their space.
Balancing Passion and Life
As a mom, wife, and entrepreneur, Darlene knows that balance isn’t about perfection — it’s about being intentional. She maintains work-life harmony by setting clear boundaries, delegating tasks, and making family time a priority. Whether it’s shared meals, weekend activities, or involving her loved ones in the business, she ensures that work never overshadows personal connections. Carving out quiet moments for self-care — like enjoying a candle-lit space — also helps her stay grounded. The key? Flexibility, communication, and grace on imperfect days.
Learning from the Greats
Darlene draws inspiration from women who have built empires from passion and perseverance. Whether it’s Oprah Winfrey or Teri Johnson of Harlem Candle Co., she admires leaders who have stayed authentic while breaking barriers. What stands out to her is their ability to balance success with community impact, a principle she strives to uphold with LeneNicole Candle Co.
A Story That Resonates
Darlene’s story is one of resilience, creativity, and purpose. From starting in her kitchen with no capital to creating candles for celebrities and growing her business year after year, her journey proves that anything is possible with determination. Readers connect with her because she embodies what it means to juggle multiple roles — mother, wife, entrepreneur — while never losing sight of her dream. Her story reminds people that success is about pushing forward, even when the odds are stacked against you.
Illuminating the Future
LeneNicole Candle Co. is more than just a brand — it’s a movement of self-care, storytelling, and emotional connection through scent. Darlene Parks has transformed her vision into a purpose-driven business that inspires, uplifts, and brings warmth into people’s lives.
For those navigating their own entrepreneurial journeys, her story is proof that when passion meets persistence, success follows.
Connect online: @lenenicolecandlecompany
About Tammy Reese
Owner of Visionary Minds Public Relations and Media, Tammy Reese is an award-winning writer and journalist best known for landing major interviews with Angela Bassett, Sharon Stone, Sigourney Weaver, Laurence Fishburne, Geena Davis, Billy Porter, Morris Chestnut, Nelly, Mona Scott Young, Giancarlo Esposito, Luke Evans, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Jennifer Connelly, Joseph Sikora, Meagan Good, Leon, Jeffrey Dean Morgan, Phylicia Rashad, Omar Epps, Courtney Kemp, Vivica A Fox, Ryan Coogler, and so many more.
She is a proud member of ForbesBLK as well as New York Women in Film and Television.
Other articles by Tammy Reese in Vision & Purpose LifeStyle Magazine.
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