Pretty and Black Owned is a celebration of brilliance, beauty, and bold business moves. This series spotlights Black women who are building powerful brands, creating impact, and owning their lane with confidence and purpose. From passion to profit, these women represent what it looks like to lead, thrive, and win.

Meet Niesha:

Niesha Marie Ray is a multi-hyphenate entrepreneur, author, and creative visionary devoted to helping women embrace a life rooted in grace, purpose, and intentional living – what she often describes as the journey of Becoming H.E.R. As a wife and mother of six, she draws daily inspiration from her family, believing that love, faith, and legacy are the true foundations of a fulfilled life.

She is the founder of LilyLuxe Candle, a luxury self-care brand renowned for its elevated candles, body essentials, and thoughtfully curated experiences, designed to promote rest and renewal. She is also the voice behind GurlYASS, an empowerment platform and podcast that uplifts women and young girls through confidence-building conversations, affirmations, and real-life storytelling. Extending her passion for sisterhood and service, Niesha leads Where She Blooms, a purpose-driven organization focused on community, outreach, and creating safe spaces where women can grow, heal, and thrive together.

Through her brands, writing, and speaking, Niesha champions a philosophy of “grace over grind,” reminding women that softness and strength can coexist. Her work is deeply inspired by faith, family, and the belief that when a woman commits to Becoming H.E.R., she blooms – and when she blooms, everyone around her flourishes.

What inspired the start of LilyLuxe Candle?

LilyLuxe Candle was born from a desire to create moments of peace in the middle of real life. I wanted to turn everyday self-care into something intentional, elevated, and meaningful, especially for women who pour so much into everyone else. The brand started as a way to honor softness, rest, and beauty without guilt.

What has been the biggest challenge of running a brand like LilyLuxe Candle?

The biggest challenge has been balancing growth with integrity, scaling the brand while staying true to its heart. As a woman-owned business, you’re often wearing every hat, making every decision, and still expected to move flawlessly. Learning when to rest, delegate, and trust the process has been just as important as the business itself.

How does LilyLuxe Candle impact its local community?

LilyLuxe Candle supports the local community by prioritizing connection, collaboration, and care. Whether through pop-up events, gifting, partnerships, or community initiatives, the brand is intentional about creating spaces that uplift, inspire, and remind people, especially women, that they are seen and valued.

How can women in particular benefit from what your brand has to offer?

LilyLuxe Candle permits women to slow down. Our products are designed to support emotional wellness, self-reflection, and rest by helping women reconnect with themselves in a world that constantly demands more from them. It’s not just a candle; it’s a reminder that softness is strength.

Where do you hope to see your brand in the next 3–5 years?

In the next 3–5 years, I envision LilyLuxe Candle as a recognized lifestyle brand rooted in self-care, faith, and empowerment. I see expanded product lines, meaningful collaborations, and a deeper global reach while still holding onto the intimacy and intention that started it all.

What advice do you have for the next generation of entrepreneurs?

Build with purpose, not pressure. Don’t rush your process or compare your journey to someone else’s highlight reel. Learn the business, trust your intuition, stay teachable, and remember that consistency and character will take you further than trends ever will.

What does being “Pretty and Black Owned” mean to you?

Being “Pretty and Black Owned” means embracing excellence, beauty, and ownership unapologetically. It’s about rewriting narratives, honoring our creativity, and standing confidently in spaces where we were once overlooked, knowing that our presence, vision, and brilliance belong there.

Connect Online:

Website

www.thenieshamarie.com & www.lilyluxecandleco.com

Social Media

Instagram: iam.nieshamarie

Facebook: TheNieshaMarie

TikTok: iam.nieshamarie_