About Us

Dom and Cri Candle Company was created when my brother transitioned. His name is Christopher Cotton Jr. but I called him JR. Initially, I started making candles as a hobby and for personal use of creating an inviting aroma in my home. I also used them as gift sets to family and friends. People would come over and ask, "What smell so good in here or how can I get one some of those candles for myself?" JR. noticed how people responded and encouraged me to start a business of some sort; as he was in business for himself as a Sales Manager. He expressed to me, “Just don't sit on your ideas." Despite, I would give him every excuse in the book. I do not know how to start a business JR. I am busy with my "Real" job, etc.
Our last conversation, we sat in his truck in the driveway of my home for hours. We talked about everything under the sun. We also discussed how he had started getting things in place for the business and we would talk more about the details once he made it back home to Indiana. A few hours later, I got up to get ready for work. I did not wake him up to give hugs and say I Love You because I knew he had a to get up shortly to travel back home to Indiana. If I knew my brother only had 2 more weeks left on this earth, I definitely would have woken him. The last thing he said to me, "Dom you have to start this business." Those words will never leave my memory and I will not let my brother down.
Dom for my first name Dominique and Cri from JR's nickname when hosting The Candle Stick Hour for an R&B radio station. As a result, Dom and Cri Candle Company was born. This company is in honor of my brother and of the commitment I made to myself to truly start living.
The journey to launching this company was fueled by heartbreak and trust in God. I know life is short but I now understand that life is short when I lose JR. I am reminded that whatever I plan to do start as soon as possible. Do not be afraid of failure; simply ask God for guidance and work the plan, the goal, the dream, that which I am trying to accomplish. Because the remainder of today and/or tomorrow is not promised. Start Now!
Life is very similar to a candle. You must mold and shape the person you are becoming. Be a bright light in a world full of uncertainty, light in the mist of darkness and light to clearly see ahead. Smell, look and be good because what better way to BE than well-intentioned.
I started by searching on various websites and studying different supplies. I would make the candles in my kitchen and have family/friends test the products. After getting feedback I was able to select the custom scents and establish names for them. I was then invited to different vendor events and started building my customer base. Next came word of mouth referrals and I was asked to provide service for baby shower gifts, bridal shower gifts, wedding favors, party favors, 4 holiday gifts, etc. I have since expanded to diffusers, diffusers oils wax melts. I continue to network and think of innovative ideas for future products.