Sarah Johnson, a young, gregarious woman from New Haven, Connecticut, has an enthusiasm that is contagious when it comes to her online business–Truly Amazing Scents (also known as Sophisticated Scents)!
The business, now in its third year, was launched thanks to inspiration from Johnson’s mother, who always taught her daughter not to give up on her dreams. Johnson also credits her customer base and the circle of entrepreneurs she surrounds herself with as the basis of encouragement and emotional support she needs to keep going.
Prior to opening her own business, Johnson spent nine years providing support and services to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, helping them live fulfilling lives within their communities. While she loved this work, she was ultimately looking to fulfill her desire to go into business.
She first started with selling candles, which she refers to as her “first love.”
“People always love home fragrances and want their house to smell good,” she explained. “ The candles I sell are soy candles, so they last long and are eco-friendly.” Truly Amazing Scents candles are especially beneficial because they burn for 60 to 70 hours with little or no soot.
True to her business name, Johnson offers a variety of candle scents–fruity, smooth, floral, masculine, dessert and more! She also carries an “Affirmation Collection” of candles.
“They are uniquely designed to give you confidence and keep thriving,” said Johnson.
Her wildly popular–and limited edition–Sophisticated Collection contains luxurious candle vessels in either the Black Edition or Gold Edition.
“These are for the VIPs in your life who may be difficult to buy for because they are always looking for something extraordinary,” she shared.
In addition to candles, Truly Amazing Scents offers body butter, citronella, reed stick diffusers, and room sprays. Plus, fans can purchase “You Are Truly Amazing” merchandise: sweatshirts, tote bags, chill wine tumblers, unisex heavy cotton t-shirts and ceramic mugs.
Johnson knows that running a business is no easy task, so while she grows her business through online orders and pop-up shops, she also wears many other hats–as a delivery driver, designing t-shirts and working as a travel agent! Her endless energy doesn’t stop there–she also loves to exercise, read books, watch movies and try new restaurants. She also stays focused by “keeping the faith” and regular prayer time.
And Johnson, who is always looking to give advice to the Black community, has a thing or two to say to anyone who is looking to open their own business but not sure where or when to start.
“Research the industry you are about to enter, get registered with the state of Connecticut, get business insurance, ask questions,” she said. “And, dive in! There will never be the ‘right’ time.”
Johnson’s goal is for Truly Amazing Scents to reach a national and international customer base. But ultimately, this venture is about chasing her dreams and making them a reality.
“I finally have a purpose in life–I’m actually happy.”
Find Truly Amazing Scents online at trulyamazingscents.com, on Facebook by clicking here, or on Instagram @sophisticatedscentsllc. Johnson may also be reached via email at sophisticatedscents@yahoo.com. Truly Amazing Scents accepts all major credit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay and Shop Pay.
