Our latest Beauty Boss is Erica Key, an award-winning Atlanta-based restaurant and recipe blogger (Eating with Erica) who is also the Founder of EWE Candles, a line of food-inspired candles that come in an array of incredible fragrances including Pineapple Cilantro, White Tea and Berries, and more. Her love for various flavors and scents eventually led to the creation of her candle line, which has also expanded to include matching room sprays.

Key started her popular blog in 2013 due to her love for the Atlanta food scene, and has traveled all over the world to explore and discover new dishes and recipes. She has appeared on “Good Morning America” and partnered with major brands such as Sephora, Lexus, Verizon, and more.

We chatted with Key, who shared the story behind her product line and blog, beauty tips, and more. 

When did you start EWE Candles? What does “Eating with Erica” mean?

I founded my food-inspired candle line in September 2019. My candle line is an extension and the first product of my lifestyle brand, Eating with Erica. I launched my food blog, Eating with Erica, in 2013 as a creative outlet to showcase fabulous travel destinations, simple yet sophisticated recipes, talented chefs, and stellar restaurants. Seven years later, I have had the opportunity to eat my way throughout the world by exploring a variety of cities and countries such as Singapore, Bali, Thailand, Paris, and Dubai. 

What inspired the creation of the brand?

I have always been a candle fanatic. After a long day of work and fighting Atlanta traffic, there was nothing that I enjoyed more than a glass of wine, listening to some Sade, and lighting a candle. After traveling to several countries and cities, I would go out and a scent would trigger a memory or an experience. 

After spending years traveling and eating, I have released my first product, EWE Candles. This line is inspired by my travels and my love for food. I spent three years working on this line and researching candles. I selected scents that evoked positive memories and that also lifted the mood and reduced stress. One of my favorite scents is lemongrass, because the scent of lemongrass has proven to promote concentration, and has calming and clarifying properties that are helpful when you're feeling angry, anxious or run down.

What are your favorite products from the brand?

It's so hard to select just one. I love lighting my lemongrass candle when I begin my day. As mentioned earlier, the scent of lemongrass has proven to promote concentration, and its calming and clarifying properties are helpful when you're feeling angry, anxious, or run down. I also have the matching room spray. You will love them because they are small but mighty in smell. The room sprays are water-based rather than oil-based. 

Future plans for the brand?

In Fall 2020, I’m releasing my first cookbook, Confidently Cooking. I have loved showcasing restaurants, but I’m really happy to show my skills in the kitchen. I take pride in showcasing recipes that are simple yet sophisticated. 

What inspires you?

My cousin, Crystal. She's my best friend and number one supporter. She's strong, successful, and has exceptional determination and ambition. She's my travel partner and has visited over 55 countries. She encourages me and believes me when I let her know when things are good, and when things are bad and ugly—mostly because she has been there for all three. 

Secret to success?

Believing in yourself when no one else does.  On the road to success, there are more “no’s” than a "yes."  It can be difficult to stay positive. But whenever I receive a "no," I tell myself that my heart is at ease knowing that what was meant for me will never miss me, and that what misses me was never meant for me.  

When I am down about a deal not going through, or when a "no" comes my way, I remind myself that I am able and capable, and that they just don't see my vision.  

Beauty secrets?

Water, moisturizer, and collagen are my best friends. The better your skin, the better your makeup will look on your face. I try to drink at least one gallon of water each day. Since water can get boring, I try to make it fun by adding lemons, strawberries, mint, and basil. I’m obsessed with making sure that my skin is hydrated and moisturized.  

My skin is loving AveSeena Essential Radiance Serum and the Honeyactive Beauty Mask. I love these products for so many reasons. They refrain from testing on animals, they’re also advanced natural beauty products, and each product is free from parabens, alcohol, petrochemicals, artificial fragrances, as well as anything that can potentially upset sensitive skin.  

Also, collagen has been wonderful. I use a collagen powder and add it to my coffee or water. Collagen has improved my skin elasticity and has increased my skin's hydration. 

Wellness tips?

Before I drink anything, I start my day with a glass of water. This past year, I have focused on getting more sleep. By doing this, I feel so much more productive and energized!  

I encourage everyone to move more! I always say that a 30-minute workout or a simple walk is better than no exercise at all.  

Fun fact: I have gotten some of my best ideas, as I have been working out and walking.

Best advice?

Focus on execution, not perfection. It's really important to focus on executing tasks, rather than perfecting tasks. 

For more information, visit eatingwitherica.com and follow on Instagram: @eatingwitherica

[Images courtesy of Eating with Erica]

Kamala Kirk is a University of Southern California graduate and has been an editor/writer for more than a decade. She has written for E! Online, Total Beauty, TravelAge West, Malibu Times Magazine, and many more. She resides in Los Angeles and is a proud pug mom. Follow her on Instagram: @kamalakirk