Meet Aura of Zen. A local brand that is all about self love and self care. The brand believes that in today’s fast paced environment, we sometimes forget to take care of ourselves. “I hope for everyone to take some time for themselves. Read a book, build a puzzle, sip some tea or coffee while enjoying a calming, scented candle. It is about preventing burnout, recharging, and simply enjoying life because we are sometimes so focused on getting through the day that we really forget to enjoy it for the gift that it is,” says Alana Boodram, owner of the brand.

Now every brand has a story about its beginnings and Aura of Zen is no different. “We wanted something classy but something that would also define the main idea behind our business so that when you hear the name Aura of Zen, you immediately think of a calming environment. We started with scented candles so our name ideas developed from that starting point. My favourite flower is the lily and I love the scent of them so much. They were also my wedding flowers so they hold sentimental value for me so I had to include it in my logo. The scent of lilies bring me calm and happiness so it was a no-brainer to include it,” says Alana.

So how does Alana manage her time. “I actually have a full time job, and run my business on the side. Juggling my time requires the use of two planners – one for each job, but I have passion for both so I do my best at both. My husband also helps in any way he can and is very supportive,” adds Alana. 

So what inspired Alana to start the business? “I have always wanted to start my own business but I have always been too scared to make the leap. I always thought it would be buying and reselling. I never imagined I would be able to actually make and sell my own products and have my own brand, but it is so fulfilling to do so. I feel so proud to be able to do it.” We’re proud of you too, Alana! 

Alana continues, “It was actually my husband who encouraged me to do it. Funny story, we were just watching random videos on YouTube and looking for a new hobby for myself. We came across making scented candles which looked intimidating but interesting so we bought the materials and I started practicing and making it for fun. He suggested making a business out of it in my spare time. Of course, I said I wasn’t ready but he rightly said I have to just jump in and start or I never will and I will learn and improve along the way, so I did and here I am.” Well done to you, Alana.

Now of course there are milestones in this entrepreneur’s story. “In just a year, I have been able to grow my customer base which I am grateful to say started with family and friends and co-workers who took a chance on my products. It just grew from there.”

Alana has also been able to secure bulk orders and custom orders from various organizations and individuals as well. And it doesn’t stop there. 

“I have grown from scented candles to also doing greeting cards and various forms of custom tumblers. I sometimes have to step out of my comfort zone to learn new crafts, especially if a customer makes a special request for which I am always up for the challenge. It is one of the best things about being a crafter, just learning new things and being able to be creative. Bringing customers’ ideas to life and having them love the final product brings me joy.”

Alana gets personal with us as she continues to tell the story behind her brand. 

“This is even a bigger accomplishment for me as an introvert running an online business and being a newbie to social media. I only started my Instagram account mid 2021 when Covid had most businesses on lock down and I needed a gift so I had to join a social media platform to source one. I created a Facebook account years ago but never used it. I had to learn how to use these social media platforms to promote my business.” You’re really doing a great job, Alana. 

“Almost everything for the business is done in house… From the designs to the labels to the photography to the social media management to the logo,” adds Alana. 

Apart from milestones, Alana has also learned a few lessons along the way. “I have learned to use other entrepreneurs’ success as motivation to keep working hard and putting myself out there because everyone had to start where I did before they got to where they are, and I have a deep appreciation for their journey and I am enjoying my own.” You are also an inspiration, Alana. 

When asked what advice Alana has for those out there who may want to begin their journey as an entrepreneur, her answer is simple. “It can be scary, but make the leap and just start. You will learn your trade and become better through practice and feedback from customers. You can’t give up if you make one misstep, just learn from it and press on. You will become better for it.” 

Alana adds that one of the main areas to focus on in building your brand is customer service. It is one of the most important aspects if your business is to thrive and one of the areas her business is complimented on a lot.

Alana definitely knows a thing or two about building brands. “Building a brand is building an identity and positive reputation for your products. It carries with it a certain level of quality for both product and service (including customer service and after sales service).”

And what’s the difference between a business and a brand? 

For Alana, a brand is what identifies a product or service and all its qualities and distinguishes it from the crowd. A business is a vessel to help the brand to grow using goals and strategies and marketing and so on to make it a reputable brand. Great insight, Alana. 

As for Alana’s thoughts on the local brand community here in Trinidad and Tobago, she says, “Local artisans are quite talented and are producing quality items that are immensely impressive. A lot of work goes into creating a brand and a quality product and that should be appreciated, not to mention the courage it takes to put yourself out there.” 

Aura of Zen will be at the SouthMarket868 Market at NAPA showing off all the brand’s amazing stuff. 

Check out Aura of Zen as Alana continues to make strides in the local brand building community here in Trinidad and Tobago.