From Service to Scents: Veteran Entrepreneurs Share a Tale of Resilience and Craft
During #NationalVeteransMonth, we feature stories and interviews with Veteran entrepreneurs from across the Greater Manhattan and Flint Hills region. The following interview features Shawnette and Darryl Williams, Army Veterans and owners of Positively Soap and Candle Co., located in Manhattan.
Want to read more stories of Veteran entrepreneurs? Click here.
Shawnette and Darryl, tell us your entrepreneurial backstory. How did you get into your current business and what motivated you to start your business?
We’ve always had an entrepreneurial spirit, shaped by our over 28 years of military service, providing us with opportunities for education and leadership. After serving as an instructor on the Master Resilience Training Program at Fort Riley, we opened The Positive Link, LLC Biofeedback Center in 2015. When COVID hit, we shifted from formal settings to a more hands-on approach, leading us to establish Positively Soap & Candle Co.
Tell us about the products your business provides, and what makes them unique compared to others who provide a similar products?
We create hand-poured soy candles, all-natural soap, and a range of bath and body products, all locally sourced and skin-friendly. Our candles use clean-burning soy wax and pet-friendly fragrances. We also offer a children’s line of fun bath items. We’re Leaping Bunny certified, using ethically sourced ingredients, setting us apart in providing quality self-care products.
How has your military background and experience prepared you for your entrepreneurial journey?
Our military background provided a solid foundation of strength and flexibility. We combined this with our civilian education, graduating from KU School of Business and pursuing doctoral studies at Kansas State University. This unique blend equips us with the resilience needed to establish and sustain a successful business.
How can your community and/or state better support Veteran entrepreneurs like you?
Veterans face challenges in securing resources and capital. Support in obtaining certifications like Veteran-Owned Business and guidance in areas such as marketing, accounting, and legal counsel would greatly benefit Veteran Entrepreneurs. Additionally, financial resources and mentorship can make a significant difference.
Thanks for telling us about your business, and thank you, Shawnette and Darryl, for your military service.
Want to check out Positively Soap and Candle products for yourself? Visit their website to shop online, or shop in person at one of several of their retail locations, including the Topeka Hy-Vee off Wanamaker Road or Hildebrand Dairy in Junction City.
And click here to read more features fromVeteran entrepreneurs.