Colorado Native Sets Roots in Texas and Launches Her First Business

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Overview

Ashley Paris-Alderson moved to The Woodlands, TX, from Colorado in November 2023 to be closer to her corporate office and eliminate the burden of traveling back and forth. However, even after relocating, she still craved a change of pace. That’s when she decided to act on her long-time dream of opening her own candle bar business—Mixology Candle Bar.

The concept was simple: customers could visit and design their own candles with a unique scent and vessel. However, Paris-Alderson needed funding to secure commercial space, along with assistance in filing her LLC and marketing. In March 2024, she reached out to the Sam Houston State University Small Business Development Center (SHSU SBDC) for help.

Her Business Advisor, John Fletcher, recommended several SBDC webinars covering topics such as business structures, tax responsibilities, social media, and marketing. He also provided her with essential tools to develop a comprehensive business plan, including financial projection templates, marketing plan outlines, and market research. The business plan would serve as Paris-Alderson's roadmap to managing her finances to save up the capital she needed. 

As Paris-Alderson worked on her business plan, Fletcher was there to support her every step of the way. 

“Ashley’s concept was fantastic,” Fletcher says. “We refined her business plan, formalized her company structure, and created a marketing strategy to ensure a strong launch.”

 In just a few months, Paris successfully raised the capital needed to launch Mixology Candle Bar, creating five new jobs in the process.

“This isn’t just a business; it’s a way to bring people together and inspire them to be the light,” says Paris. “The SBDC’s support was instrumental in turning my dreams into reality.”

The SHSU SBDC continues to provide ongoing support for Paris and her business, offering guidance on accounting and marketing strategies.