Scentsy grew from a tiny endeavor in a Utah home basement to a worldwide, multi-million-dollar company, quickly capturing the attention of consumers and the business world alike.
Orville and Heidi Thompson were on the edge of bankruptcy due to a failed business startup in 2003 when they struck a deal to take over the wickless candle company. They ran Scentsy with their five young children out of a large metal box on their sheep farm in Meridian.
Now, homes around the world have a Scentsy ceramic wax warmer, and more than 110,000 independent consultants host private Scentsy parties on two continents.
Why did you decide to make Scentsy a party planning company?
Orville: “A direct selling company has the ability to make business about more than just the product. There’s an inherent culture that is established, … and I think that fit very well with what we’re trying to create.â€
Heidi: “If it were just sitting on a shelf at the store, it’s not the same experience as going to a party and sharing the experience with your friends.â€
Logo from Scentsy