This past week I had the chance to fly out to Orange County in hopes that Upside gets to meet our next partnership opportunity. About three years ago I looked at our numbers and in full transparency (with regards to wholesale), there was a stark difference between our success in certain industries and types of stockist that we had. I pretty much said say less and hit the road to work on truly finding our niche in this (what can be) oversaturated playing field. I found early on that if you aren't front and center, know someone who knows someone, or have a viral-worthy brand, it's VERY hard to get your name in the right hands let alone your product.
Thanks to our friends at the neighboring business, Los Poblanos and a lovely chit chat over coffee and woes, I was able to align with offerings where we can meet buyers in a space that is approachable, curated and very well aligned.
All this to say, over the last year and now into 2026 we are working hard to hop on flights, shake hands, give samples and follow up like the absolute queen my 2012 sales-loving heart did and make as many connections as I can for Upside. The scariest part? I want Upside to be a recognized brand in the candle industry by 2030 and let me tell you, that is getting closer and closer each day.
If you know someone or a brand that might be interested in stocking Upside candles, sharing our mission and quality products with their clientele or somewhere in between these options, please make sure to connect us! You never know unless you put yourself out there and ask and every single conversation, referral and someone who knows someone helps us achieve our goals!
xoxo,
Ashley
