Life & Work with Nancie Filkins of Franklin, TN

Today we’d like to introduce you to Nancie Filkins.

Hi Nancie, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My story begins in 2015 when I packed up my Ford Edge, left my native state of sunny Southern California, and drove across the country to Tennessee.

I didn’t know anyone in Tennessee, and I didn’t have a job lined up. I just took the plunge and did it!

I had visited Tennessee in the past and fell in love with its beauty. I couldn’t get over how incredibly nice everyone was, and I knew that whatever community they had in Tennessee, I wanted to be a part of it.

A year into my new life in Tennessee, my favorite client from California called me. She had “torn down half the house” and needed my expertise to help her finish the renovation. She knew my background in architecture and design would be helpful, and the timing couldn’t have been better. It was the beginning of 2017, I had just left my hotel managerial job, and I wasn’t currently working on anything, so I accepted her offer.

The project involved renovating a beautiful 100-year-old Spanish Colonial home in Pasadena, where honoring the late, famed architect was a top priority. What began as a few months of work turned into years as we navigated the project. Nurturing the landscaping phase was exciting until COVID sidelined us and brought the entire project to a halt.

With travel restrictions in place and having to stay at home, I wondered what a creative person like me should do. Creating ambiance had always been a passion of mine, and when “candles” kept coming to mind, I became intrigued. Encouraged by my husband, who said, “You should do it!” I finally took the leap.

I ordered a starter kit and got to work. I dedicated time to reading and researching before pouring my first candle in the fall of 2020. In addition to the scientific aspects, I learned how to formulate my own scents and create labels using Canva. Surprisingly, it was simpler than I had expected. Friends were thrilled to receive such lovely gifts, especially during the unusual holiday season that was unfolding.

Fast forward a few years, and I now run an LLC with 47 handcrafted scents. My motto, “Breathe What You Burn,” stems from importing organic soy wax from London, which contains no phthalates or toxic chemicals. I have learned a lot about the numerous toxins and chemicals we subject ourselves to daily and feel it is important to keep our environments fresh and clean. I strive to provide beautiful scents for inviting spaces that help boost mood and positively impact our overall well-being.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
My biggest challenge has been managing all the aspects of running a business including marketing, and sales, accounting, logistics, legal issues and technology, all on self-funded budget.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a 30-year floral designer with a degree in interior design. My floral design work with Jacob Maarse Florist in Pasadena, CA. included many notable clients such weekly arrangements for Ms. Shirley (Black) Temple and creating the casket piece for Frank Sinatra.

I was the lead florist for Sierra Madre Rose Float Association from 2013-2017. I was the float designer of Tournament of Roses 2015 “Inspiring Stories” float, “I Think I Can”.

We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
My favorite childhood memory is going on Sunday drives with my family – me being the youngest of 5 kids. We lived in OH and would stop off at the timber for nature walks. I used to love to find wildflowers in the forest and point them to to my mom, who was instrumental for my passion for nature, especially flowers. I can remember coming out of the forest one time and seeing thousands of monarch butterflies everywhere. It was absolutely amazing!

Pricing:

• $25 – 10 oz
• $40 – 14 oz
• $20 8 oz room spray

Contact Info:

• Website: levieuxjardin.com
• Instagram: le_vieux_jardin
• Facebook: Le Vieux Jardin
• Other: https://breathewhatyouburn.hellocard.biz