Jayde Rajapakse of Good Feelings is sharing her light with others

Name: Jayde Rajapakse 

Location: Los Angeles, CA 

Pronouns: She/Her 

Business: Good Feelings

Describe yourself in three words: Loyal, ambitious, empathetic 

Why did you decide to start your own business? How did you get started? 

Good Feelings was born during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 in an effort to pivot from my practice as a licensed holistic esthetician. Along with becoming a new mom during the pandemic, I began a new practice of making candles at home for my friends and family, in an effort to create happy memories and as a form of self care. 

What is the biggest lesson you learned in the first year? 

Learning to say no. While I’m always excited and eager for new opportunities to help grow my business, I’ve learned that not every opportunity aligns with my work. And that’s ok. 

What was the most surprising thing about becoming a business owner? 

The amount of paperwork! 

How does running your own business make you feel? 

Empowered most days, frustrated the rest. But also grateful and genuinely happy to be in a position where I help to bring beauty into the world by way of my work. 

What are some of the challenges you’ve overcome or are working to overcome? 

Getting out of my comfort zone. It's easy to do what's familiar. But to truly see progress and growth you have to get comfortable with being uncomfortable! It's a daily practice. 

What challenges do you feel are unique to Black small business owners? 

Being taken seriously as opposed to non black business owners, defying social expectations, and access to capital or funding.

What are your proudest moments? 

Finding joy in candle-making during a very difficult year and using that light to start a business in hopes of sharing that light with others. 

What are the next big plans you have for your business? 

This year I want people to experience my candles in real life instead of guessing online. So the goal is to get into more stores! 

When you’re having a tough day, who or what inspires you to keep going? 

My son. He reminds me that these tough moments or tought days are simply a moment in time, that it won’t last forever. He reminds me to stay present and to remember the good. 

How can Black business owners support each other and their community? 

Really focusing on buying black as often as possible and getting the word out. One of the best way to support our community is investing money into it. 

What advice would you give to other Black business owners just starting out? 

Don’t underestimate the power of “word of mouth.” Word of mouth is free marketing for your business, and people are more likely to trust the recommendations from their friends and family. 

What’s your “power song” and why? 

“Brown Skin Girl” by Beyonce