Mei Xu grew up in China, coming to the United States in 1992 to pursue a graduate degree. After graduating with a Masters of Arts in Communications and Journalism, she found herself stuck in a job that was unsatisfying. So she started thinking of alternatives, unleashing an entrepreneurial spirit that had been lying within. She and husband David founded Pacific Trade International and signature brand Chesapeake Bay Candle in 1994, which has since become one of the largest candle/home fragrance suppliers in the world, supplying major retailers in the U.S., Europe, and Asia. Here is part one her story:
Q: Describe your company and product line:
A: Chesapeake Bay Candle is known for its stylish designs, sophisticated multi-note fragrances, and affordable prices. Our product offerings include scented candles, alternative home fragrances, and home decor pieces.
In 2005 I launched my second brand called Blissliving Home. Blissliving Home is the destination interior lifestyle brand for the stylish consumer seeking modern design with a global touch. Every Blissliving Home collection includes bedding sets, decorative pillows, home fragrances and complimenting home accents pieces. The products are in style with a signature global influence.
Q: Why did you start this company and when?
A: I came to the United States in 1992 to pursue my graduate education at the University of Maryland. Together with David, I left my home country—China—looking to grow professionally and personally. After graduating in 1993, I started looking for a position related to my background but was not able to find anything that inspired me. I started working for a medical equipment company in New York City while David stayed in Washington D.C. where he worked as a computer scientist. After a few months in the medical equipment industry, I realized that I would not find satisfaction in my job and David and I started thinking about alternatives. Both of us had entrepreneurial spirits and we got very excited about the idea of starting our own company.
We started looking for products from our home country that we could import to the U.S. and sell to the American consumer. With the help of our friends and family, we identified a range of different giftable products—such as silk flowers and candles.
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