Perfectly Strong Women: Joy Fennell & Valerie Wray (+ Giveaway)

What is your definition of a Perfectly Strong Woman?
A perfectly strong woman, is a woman who still prevails in the midst of adversity and challenges. She is determined, she is faithful, and she is fierce!

Name the one woman who has been most influential in pursuing your dream.
Our mothers have been influential to both of us. We both come from single parent homes with siblings and we watched our mothers excel in their careers, go to school, raise children, get advanced degrees all by themselves. This really instilled in us that no barrier is too large and anything is possible.

Tell us more about your business.
The 125 Collection is a NYC-based lifestyle brand that fuses fun, style and individuality into our products. Our first line of products are the soy blend Quote Candles that have funny, edgy and inspirational quotes on them. We are inspired by NYC and pop culture, and create products that truly connect with our customers.

What is one piece of advice that you would give a young woman aspiring to fulfill her dream?
When one door closes, find another way to get it. Dreams can be achieved as long as you love what you do and put in the hard work.

As a busy woman, what is a time-saving technique or life hack that you would share?
Start getting ready the night before. Pick out your outfit, make your to do list, place your bags (keys too!) at the door so you are ready and set for the next day!

What is your one guilty pleasure?
With such a busy lifestyle, down time is rare and we both realized we tend to do the same thing during that time when we are in our homes – Netflix and Ice Cream.

Photography: Sinnerman Photography at Nilu Gift Shop

Win a Pair of Candles from 125 Collection!