Trejo makes switch from anthropology to candle making

In this modern world of internet technology and global economics, there is a wide variety of occupations awaiting young adults entering the job market after college.
But how does one become a candle maker?
Well, if you're Tiffany (Nutter) Trejo, you get two degrees in anthropology.
"I know, it's a little strange," she said with a laugh. "But I love it!"
Tiffany grew up in Concordia, and attended Concordia High School (CHS) until her sophomore year. She graduated from Wichita State University (WSU) in 2017 with a degree in anthropology, and again in 2019 with a second degree in biological anthropology.
How did all that lead to launching her candle company?
"I was planning to get a PhD and become a professor," she said. "A friend of mine showed me how to make candles, and I thought maybe I could make and sell some candles to help pay for grad school at the University of Tennessee. I started making candles, and just loved it. It was such a stress-relieving hobby."
Tiffany began to have second thoughts about getting her master's degree, and then a PhD. "I didn't really want to leave Kansas," she said. "I talked it over with my husband and, well, I just sort of altered course."
In March of 2019, Tiffany founded Black Label Candle Company in Wichita, Kansas.
The name, and the distinctive black label on her products, is a personal touch.
"I'm just a huge fan of the color black in general," she said. "I love the aesthetic of it. I wanted my brand to look clean and luxurious. My candles are designed to have a high-end look, but not a high-end price. They're very affordable for both men and women."
The Black Label Candle Company offers five signature brands year round. On a seasonal basis, the company will carry up to nine distinctive candle scents.
"Fall and Christmas are always the busiest times of the year. Everybody wants candles. And all our candles are non-toxic. Some of the big-store candles have toxins in them, especially in the oils they use."
Tiffany's company is getting more well-known in the Wichita area, and she intends to launch her brand nationwide.
"I really enjoy doing it. During the busy season it gets a little hectic. It's normal for me to put in 60-hour weeks, but I've become a lot more efficient. I can now make 100 candles in a couple hours. I really love the creative process."
You can view and purchase Tiffany's creations on her company website: blacklabelcandleco.com