Today we’d like to introduce you to Zo Smith.
Hi Zo, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My entrepreneurial journey began in 2020. I discovered candle making as a hobby, and what started as a creative outlet quickly became something I genuinely enjoyed. Living with a chronic illness has naturally made me more of an introvert, and creating gave me a sense of peace, purpose, and accomplishment.
Like many first-time entrepreneurs, I eventually tried turning that hobby into a business. Looking back, I realized I was focused on making products, but I hadn’t taken the time to build a brand with a clear vision. That first attempt didn’t work out the way I had hoped, but it became one of the most valuable learning experiences I could have had.
Instead of giving up, I stepped back and started over. I spent the next several years learning, refining my skills, and thinking carefully about what I wanted to create. In 2024, I expanded into artisan soaps and continued exploring home fragrance and body care. More importantly, I became intentional about every decision. I wanted every product, every fragrance, every label, and every customer experience to feel thoughtful and cohesive.
In 2025, the vision for Obsidian Bleu finally came into focus. I wasn’t interested in simply selling candles or soap. I wanted to create a brand that encouraged people to slow down and find beauty in everyday moments. The French-inspired names became part of that vision because I loved the elegance and emotion they conveyed, but the heart of Obsidian Bleu has always been about creating products that bring comfort, beauty, and intention into daily life.
After years of learning, refining, and building with purpose, I officially launched Obsidian Bleu in July 2026.
Looking back, I’m grateful my first attempt wasn’t a success. If it had been, I don’t think I would have built the brand Obsidian Bleu is today. Those early setbacks taught me patience, resilience, and the importance of building something with intention. Today, every product we offer reflects that journey and our simple belief that everyday moments deserve beauty.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road, but I think those challenges are what shaped Obsidian Bleu into what it is today.
One of the biggest lessons came early on. My first attempt at starting a business wasn’t successful because I was focused on making products rather than building a brand. At the time, that felt discouraging, but looking back, I’m grateful it happened. It forced me to slow down, learn, and become much more intentional about every decision I made.
Living with a chronic illness has also brought its own challenges. There are days when I have to adjust my pace or work around limitations, so I’ve learned to give myself grace while staying committed to my goals. Building a business doesn’t always happen on the timeline you imagine, and I’ve had to accept that progress is still progress, even when it’s slower than I’d like.
Another challenge has been wearing every hat. As a small business owner, I’m the product maker, photographer, website designer, marketer, customer service representative, shipping department, and everything in between. It can be overwhelming at times, but it’s also given me a much deeper appreciation for every order and every customer who chooses to support my business.
Through all of it, I’ve learned that success isn’t about avoiding setbacks. It’s about being willing to keep learning, adapting, and showing up even when things don’t go as planned. Those experiences have made Obsidian Bleu a stronger brand, and they’ve made me a better entrepreneur.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
At Obsidian Bleu, I create artisan home fragrance and body care products designed to make everyday routines feel a little more meaningful. Our collection includes products like artisan soaps, perfume oils, home fragrances, and home care, all created with the idea that small rituals can have a big impact on how we experience our homes and our daily lives.
I think what sets Obsidian Bleu apart is the amount of intention behind every detail. I’m not interested in creating products just to follow trends. Every fragrance is thoughtfully selected, every product is carefully tested, and every label, package, and customer experience is designed to feel cohesive. I want someone opening an Obsidian Bleu order to feel like they’re receiving something that was created with care from beginning to end.
I’m probably most proud of the fact that I built this brand by starting over. My first attempt at entrepreneurship taught me that making products and building a brand are two very different things. Instead of giving up, I took the time to learn, refine my craft, and create something that truly reflects my values.
More than anything, I hope Obsidian Bleu reminds people to slow down and appreciate the beauty in ordinary moments. Whether it’s washing your hands, freshening your home, or applying a favorite fragrance, those everyday rituals deserve the same care and attention as life’s biggest celebrations.
Any big plans?
Right now, my biggest goal is to continue growing Obsidian Bleu one thoughtful step at a time. I officially launched the brand in July 2026, so I’m still in the exciting stage of introducing people to what we’ve created and continuing to build a community around it.
Looking ahead, I plan to continue expanding the collection with new fragrances and products that stay true to the heart of the brand. Rather than chasing every trend, I want each new release to feel intentional and to fit naturally within the Obsidian Bleu story.
I’m also looking forward to growing beyond online sales by exploring opportunities like local markets and wholesale partnerships. One of the things I enjoy most is connecting with customers, hearing how they use our products, and seeing them become part of someone’s everyday routine.
More than anything, I hope Obsidian Bleu continues to grow in a way that never loses what made it special in the first place. I want it to remain a brand that’s known for thoughtful craftsmanship, beautiful presentation, and creating products that help people slow down and enjoy the small moments in life.
Success, to me, isn’t about growing as fast as possible. It’s about building something that lasts, earning the trust of my customers, and continuing to create products that people genuinely love and look forward to bringing into their homes.
Pricing:
- Lotion Bars: $14
- Perfume Oils: Starting at $22
- Home Fragrance & Home Care: Starting at $16
- Free U.S. shipping on orders over $75
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.obsidianbleu.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/obsidian_bleu
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/17MSMcweew/
- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@obsidian.bleu
