Today we have Latrice Littleton of Ardor Bin on MiLOWE MAG. We were first introduced to Latrice when she collaborated with our friend on the most delicious smelling candle and then we were lucky to have her participate in our holiday market. Without further ado, meet Latrice!

Tell us your story! We’d love to hear little bit about yourself and your business.

I’m a creative artist at heart. I grew up in the theater, writing, acting, and learning to be a unique storyteller, and I’ve always wanted to start a business where I could utilize my creativity in some way. Candle-making was not something that I ever imagined myself doing, but I’ve always been obsessed with candles. They’re a big part of my relaxation routine. In recent years, I’ve really gotten into swapping out old products for newer, cleaner options, and my candles were no different. As a health-conscious individual, I saw a lot of value in making smarter choices for myself and my family. I was later inspired to make a healthier candle that would add a bit of personality to my home. The first candle that I created after twelve months of study was Sandalwood Night. It’s still Ardor Bin’s best-selling scent and it’s where it all stated. Candle-making is an art that I’ve come to respect. All Ardor Bin scents are reminiscent of an element or place in nature. I’ve really grown to love the process of creating products that add value to my life and to the lives of others.

How many kids do you have, what ages?

I’m a mom to two amazing girls ages thirteen and ten.

What are your top three recommendations for things to do with kids in LA?

I really enjoy trying out new restaurants around LA with my girls. They’re at an age where we can really have “girl time.” We frequent places like Malibu Farm, and Gracias Madre for healthier options. LA is a wonderful place for outdoor activities being that we have such great weather year-round. We love to visit the horse ranches in Calabasas, have beach picnics, and surf on nice days (they offer surfing lessons at Zuma Beach in Malibu daily). I think that being outdoors is great for kids and adults. If we can have a great time out in the sunshine, that’s where we would prefer to be. California has so many options for fun, so we’re now exploring the popular ski towns and cabin resorts as a new adventure.

How do you network as a parent and a business person?

I am active in many of the activities that my girls participate in. I have a ballerina and a competitive tennis player, so I tend to meet other moms who are involved in similar activities. I find that it’s a great bonding experience to network with other moms whose children have common interest. You can share ideas, and even offer support to one another relating to motherhood and business. Trying to be as involved as you can with school and outside activities will prove to be beneficial in creating opportunities to meet other moms. I’m also an advocate for getting out there and finding groups of women who are like-minded. It’s very inspiring to be a part of collectives and groups that are supportive and offer foundational support that is relatable and nurturing. I really admire organizations that place an emphasis on building meaningful relationships.

Where do you go for inspiration on the web and in real life?

I read a lot. I’m still very much into turning a trip to the bookstore into an actual outing. So much of my inspiration comes from things that I’ve read. If there’s ever a time that I am looking for inspiration, I seek to find it by reading something that will educate and enlighten me in some way. I‘m a firm believer that most of the lessons, knowledge, and information that we seek can likely be found in a book written by someone who came before us and experienced similar things. Otherwise, being out in nature by the ocean, traveling to new places, or hiking really helps me to clear my mind. I’m inspired the most when I’m elevating myself in some way. I love things that challenge me to think differently and to seek new perspectives.

What is the first website you visit every morning?

Girlboss.com is great. I listen to their “In Progress” podcast and Oprah’s “SuperSoul.tv” Podcast. I’m on the go a lot, so podcasts are my new go-to in the morning. I like the fact that I can find a way to be productive while I’m going from place to place in my car. Podcast that offer valuable information that resonates with my physical, mental, or spiritual goals tend to be the things that I take in at the start of my mornings.

What are you three favorite Instagram accounts to follow?

@ForbesWomen

@TheEveryGirl

@OprahsBookClub

What is on your to do list for today?

Today, I’m starting my day at 5:00 am to make time for meditation and Pilates class before work and getting my girls to school. I’ve recently started a new book by Robin Sharma called “The 5AM Club” so I’m challenging myself to be consistent with having a morning routine. I’m launching two new collections for Ardor Bin, so our creative meeting for our product shoot happens this afternoon along with processing and fulfilling on-line orders. I’m hoping to end my day by unwinding with my family before I settle in for a bit of time to myself. Balance is everything.

Describe motherhood in one sentence.

Motherhood is profoundly rewarding for me.

And finally, where can we find you?

Website: www.ardorbin.com

Instagram: @ardorbin and @latricelittleton