Choices. Chances. Changes.
Hello! I’m Laura, the owner and maker behind Pacific Coast Home Fragrances. If I’m being honest, I never imagined I’d be here running a small business. I was a steadfast, keep achieving corporate-life type for 20+ years. Born and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area and working in Silicon Valley, it feels like you fall into this life. Then, you blink and it’s been 20 years.
Like many others who needed a hobby during the pandemic, I started making candles (I failed miserably at making sourdough bread. My husband said it was like a curling disk). I loved it instantly. Candle making fulfilled my creative side. The result was delightful- a beautiful handmade piece of home décor that made the house smell amazing. I loved talking about the feelings the scents evoked (like walking into our local coffee shop, or the smell of that spa we went to). I started gifting them to friends and family. They loved the candles and said, "You can sell these." I realized this is what it means when "they" say do something you love and it will never feel like work.
Still, I continued at my corporate job. I’ve been a marketer in the tech industry for 20+ years. Ironically, I worked for companies that provide products to small businesses (bookkeeping, domain names, etc.). Over the years, I've interviewed hundreds of small business owners. I was always inspired by their passion and admired their dedication and perseverance. I always thought “one day,” but deep down I’m not sure I believed it was possible for me.
In 2023, I was part of the widespread layoffs in the tech industry. I found myself at a crossroad. Continue corporate life or pursue turning my hobby into a business. On the one hand, I was filled with uncertainty and doubt. What if it fails? What if I don’t have what it takes? On the other hand, I was full of passion and confidence. This is my time. This is my sign. What if it’s bigger than I can imagine? Do I go for it or not?
The answer: GO FOR IT! If not now, when? I realized the real question was, why not me?
I wanted to use fragrance to create feel-good moments in everyday rituals. When you're cozy on the couch, when friends come for dinner, when you need the perfect gift - all the everyday moments that make up the majority of our life.
In Northern California, inspiration is all around. From the beach and the redwoods to the weather and the quintessential towns, I'm so thankful to call The Bay Area home.
Thank you for being a part of this journey. I don’t know where it will take me and that’s OK. I’m taking it one day at a time (the best advice my dad ever gave me). I do know that I was meant to be on this journey at this time in my life.
Happy smelling!