November Nichols, founder of luxury fragrance brand Chémin, stumbled into the world of scents almost by accident in 2016. Seeking self-care during a stressful career in educational publishing, Nichols found candle-making and essential oils to be a “safe space.”
“I started experimenting with making my own candles after my favorite candle company discontinued my favorite scent,” she shared.
As friends raved about her custom aromas, a business idea sparked. Nichols began hand-pouring soy candles, later expanding into a full fragrance collection.
Smashing Ceilings as a Black Woman Business Owner
Today, Nichols’ brand Chémin offers far more than candles, with bath/body products, teas, and 450+ custom perfume options in their own designated fragrance house – the only Black-owned one globally.
Since entering this $84B industry in 2017, Nichols has shattered assumptions about who can succeed in the “cliquish” fragrance realm.
“A big part of my mission is to provide an entry point for people to enter this craft,” said Nichols about empowering more diversity.
As one of few Black women fragrance entrepreneurs, Nichols paves the way for more to find belonging.
Full Circle Moment with Accessible Luxury Line
Nichols now looks to write Chémin’s next chapter through a new affordable luxury collection debuting with JCPenney in January 2023.
“JCPenney has a special place in my heart – as I used to go with my maternal grandmother,” she shared.
With inspirations from past generations fueling future growth, November Nichols continues ascending as a pioneering business force.
