We had the good fortune of connecting with Shannon Cumberland and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Shannon, do you have some perspective or insight you can share with us on the question of when someone should give up versus when they should keep going?
I’ve had my low moments, and times I’ve wondered if the business would survive, but thankfully every time a solution has presented itself.  I think you need to evaluate your financial position and your quality of life.  Our culture prizes entrepreneurship, but there’s no shame in quitting.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Rosy Rings is a luxury home fragrance brand based in Denver. Our line of products can be purchased worldwide from retailers such as Nordstroms, Anthropologie and Fortnum and Mason. While we make many types of candles, fragranced products, and home décor items, we are best known for our botanical candles. We’re considered by our industry counterparts to be the preeminent botanical candle manufacturer in the world. There have been many times I’ve questioned why I’ve dedicated myself to producing such a high maintenance, laborious product that requires us to inventory not just hundreds, but thousands, of different materials. It’s a labor of love, one that I’ve practiced for almost… gulp… twenty-five years. From humble beginnings in my tiny duplex kitchen, the Rosy Rings brand has grown from a lifelong love of craft, insane optimism, and what is commonly referred to as “grit”. It certainly has not been an easy road to follow. While I’m creative and skilled at making things, I had to learn to run a business. The majority of the valuable lessons I’ve learned along the way have come the hard way.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My shout out would have to go to my employees. I’m fortunate to have an extremely talented group of artisans, designers, managers and more that is integral to the success of Rosy Rings.

Image Credits
George Boe

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutColorado is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.