By Maya Quinn, managing editor

The Democrat is covering a series of interviews on the Black Belt Folk Roots Festival leading up to the event. This week, we interviewed a new vendor, Carolyn McGruder, about her journey to Greene County and her interest in the festival. For her, it is more than an opportunity for sales, it is a chance to share a faith-driven story.

Carolyn McGruder has curated custom scents for her brand, Close and Personal Luxury Candles & Room Sprays, for the past six years. Her creations feature luxury candles, room sprays, colognes, and more. She learned about the festival through word of mouth, particularly from friends and other vendors who spoke highly of the event. She is eager to make new connections and share her passions with those attending the festival. “Each scent tells a story, and it’s been a blessing to turn my passion into a business that allows me to share those experiences with others,” McGruder stated. “I started Close and Personal Luxury Candles & Room Sprays because I wanted to turn my passion for fragrance into a business that brings warmth, relaxation, and happiness into people’s homes while creating a lasting legacy.”

Although McGruder is excited to build her legacy as a citizen of Greene County, her journey here was brought on by the passing of her father-in-law. “My husband and I made the decision to take over the family farm and continue the legacy he worked so hard to build,” McGruder explained. “While it was a difficult time for our family, it also became the beginning of a new chapter in our lives. Living in Greene/Hale County has allowed me to become part of this wonderful community, grow my business, and connect with so many amazing people. I’m grateful to call Greene/Hale County home.” 

McGruder’s inspiration arose from a desire to create something that reflected her creativity, passion, and faith. The challenges she faced along the way merely fueled her determination to succeed, each trial growing her wisdom and strength. “Like many entrepreneurs, I’ve faced challenges along the way. Building a business from the ground up meant learning everything—from creating quality products and managing costs to marketing my brand and finding customers. There were moments of doubt, slow sales, and times when I questioned whether I should keep going. But every obstacle taught me something valuable. Instead of giving up, I chose to grow, adapt, and keep believing in my vision.” She hopes her passion and drive will encourage others to pursue their dreams.

Her motivation stems from the belief that Close and Personal is part of God’s purpose for her life.  Her actions are steeped in vision and not passing whims. For those wishing to pursue their own dreams, McGruder offers these words of encouragement, “Your vision is your power. Don’t wait for permission to build the life you imagine. Every challenge you overcome is preparing you for greater success. Stay focused, stay faithful, and never let fear silence your purpose. Your business is more than a source of income—it’s your legacy, your impact, and your gift to the world. Keep showing up, keep believing, and keep building. Someone is waiting for what only you can create.”

Many thanks from McGruder are extended to her daughter, Catrina, who introduced me to the candle business. She also attributed her success to the ongoing support of my family, amazing customers, and to Main Street Grill for opening their doors to her. “I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to the owners, Terrell, Shayla, Dee, and other staff members of Main Street Grill for graciously sharing their platform with me and allowing me to introduce Close and Personal Luxury Candles & Room Sprays and also my Notary services. Your support of small businesses and local entrepreneurs means more than you know. Thank you for believing in community and creating opportunities for businesses like mine to grow. And thank you to The Democrat for allowing me to share my story. God bless!!”

Close and Personal is a brand built on faith, passion, and quality. It was started to create an experience, inspire others to chase their dreams, and prove that it’s never too late to build something of your own. “Every product I make is created with love and the hope that it brings joy and peace to every customer. Every candle and room spray is handcrafted with care using thoughtfully curated scents designed to bring a touch of luxury into everyday life. ” 

Mark your calendars for August 22nd-23rd to join Greene County’s community for its annual celebration of the people who call it home. 

For information on this year’s festival, visit: Black Best Folks Root Festival on Facebook