Location: Dallas
Price: $22.95
Christine White-Stanton was a marketing communications director in Silicon Valley who got stung by high-tech layoffs in the early 2000s one too many times.
After the sixth layoff, she took a retail job with a few natural bath and beauty companies. A quick study, she applied what she learned to starting a home party (think Tupperware) business that sold all-natural bath and beauty products.
One of her products -- a soy-based candle that melted into a scented body lotion -- stood out. She decided to sell the home party business and, in 2005, Scandle, LLC was born. Noting that "all-natural" products weren't always so natural, White-Stanton committed to making a product that was 100% natural and packaged in containers made in the United States.
The patent-pending shimmering lotion candle is one of the better-selling products. The Scandle candle is green as well, with a reusable ceramic pot and biodegradable cellophane wrapping. The hang tag is seeded, recycled paper that can be planted to grow wildflowers. Even with a growing international market, White-Stanton won't rest on her laurels. "We are almost ready to release an all natural perfume gel, perfect for air travel."
NEXT: A recipe for success