Being the Only One in the Room

There’s a certain silence you hear when you walk into a space and realize… you’re the only one in the room who looks like you.

I’ve heard that silence more times than I can count.

From the early days of my education to the professional halls of healthcare, to high-level strategy meetings now as the CEO of J.R Candle Company—I’ve been here before. The “only one.” The double minority. A Black woman navigating rooms that weren’t built with me in mind.

And yet… I keep showing up.
Because I’m not just showing up for myself.

A Foundation Built on Love and Legacy

I was raised by two loving, married parents who poured into me daily. I didn’t grow up having to question my worth.  They told me what it was, and then they showed me how to walk in it.

I had a village! Family and friends who cheered me on as I balanced school and extracurriculars. I was classically trained on the violin. I was a competitive dancer, choreographer, instructor and performer. I learned discipline early, how to be excellent, not just good enough. I’ve carried that fire with me into every season of life.

As a nurse, I had to advocate for myself in rooms where people questioned my qualifications, my pay, and even my voice. As a patient, I’ve had to speak louder just to be heard. But as a woman of faith, I know that favor can’t be silenced—and neither can purpose.

Now, as an entrepreneur, I carry every part of my story with pride.

Motherhood, Marriage, and the Mission

Running a business while being a wife and mother isn’t easy, but I wouldn’t trade it for the world. My husband, a CEO in his own right, makes time for our family and supports my vision in ways I couldn’t have imagined. My kids are my “why.” My family is my anchor.

My days start early. Often with candle orders to pack, store signs to flip, pick-up shelves to stock, and classes to teach. My nights sometimes end with content editing/batching, strategy calls, or quick dances in the kitchen when my kids make me laugh. And yet, I’m still pouring into my business, into myself, and into others.

Because when I win, my community wins too.

Being “The Only One” Isn’t a Weakness. It’s a Superpower

It’s easy to let spaces that weren’t designed for you convince you that you don’t belong.
But I’ve learned that my presence shifts the atmosphere.

That crackling wick I love to light in the shop? It’s a reminder that even in stillness, there’s strength. That aroma that fills the room? That’s what legacy smells like.

I use my platform to pour into others. Through candle-making workshops that offer healing, business strategy, and creative expression. Through partnerships with local businesses that want to curate luxury vibes in their spaces. Through mentoring, storytelling, and showing up as my full self—flaws, power, and all.

A Message for the One Who Feels Alone

If you’ve ever walked into a room and felt unseen... please know this:
You’re not invisible.
You’re impactful.

Being the “only one” is not a limitation.
It’s an opportunity to be unforgettable.

Let your excellence speak loudly.
Let your light fill the space.
And always, always stand firm in your purpose.

I’m JoJo Riley—CEO, wife, mom, community builder!
Black woman.
Candle-maker.
Atmosphere shifter.
And I’m just getting started.

Follow Us and Stay Inspired!

We’d love to bring you even closer to the art of candle making and our luxury collection. Follow us for exclusive updates, behind-the-scenes looks, and more:
📸 Instagram: @j.r_candlecompany
👍 Facebook: J.R Candle Company
💼 LinkedIn: Joí Riley

With gratitude and light,
Joi Riley
Founder + Lead Chandler
J.R Candle Company