Today, we’re thrilled to sit down with Alyssa Chambers, the visionary founder of Nova Essence Inside Out, a self-care destination that has captured hearts with its unique offerings. Since launching in 2023, Alyssa has transformed her e-commerce business into a beacon of community and personal healing, recently expanding with the innovative Winnie’s Way Candle Cafe, a mobile experience that brings her products and ethos directly to customers. In this conversation, we’ll dive into the origins of her business, the personal challenges that shaped its growth, the inspiration behind her mobile cafe, and how her deep-rooted commitment to community influences everything she does.
Can you share the story of how Nova Essence Inside Out came to life?
Honestly, it started from a deep need for self-care in my own life. I wanted to create something that could help others find peace and joy in small, meaningful ways. I was working at Morgan Stanley as an intern when I began developing the idea, and I threw myself into designing the website and figuring out how to run a business. The name “Nova” stands for Natural Optimistic Vivacious Ambiance—it’s about creating a positive, uplifting space, both for myself and for anyone who interacts with the brand.
What sparked the shift to focusing on candles as a core part of your business?
Candles weren’t my first plan at all. Initially, I had other ideas for self-care products, but when the COVID-19 pandemic hit in 2020, everything came to a standstill. I started making candles just to pass the time, and it turned into something I was passionate about. It wasn’t until 2023 that I really leaned into it as a business focus. There was something therapeutic about the process, and I realized candles could carry that same calming energy to others, which became a cornerstone of Nova Essence.
How did the idea for Winnie’s Way Candle Cafe come about, and what was the vision behind it?
I wanted to bring Nova Essence directly to people in a way that felt personal and interactive. A mobile candle cafe just made sense—it’s a way to meet customers where they are and create an experience, not just a product. The vision was to make it a safe space, inspired by Winnie the Pooh, my favorite childhood character. In the stories, each character has their own struggles, but together they find comfort. That’s what I wanted the cafe to be: a place where anyone can feel supported and connected.
What was it like launching the mobile cafe at Martin Bunky Reid Park on August 30th?
It was absolutely incredible. I’ll never forget the energy that day—the turnout was beautiful, and there was so much love and community spirit in the air. It was my first major event with the cafe, and seeing people engage with the concept, enjoy the products, and just vibe with each other was everything I’d hoped for. It felt like a validation of the hard work and the dream behind Winnie’s Way.
Community seems to be at the heart of everything you do. How has your background shaped that focus?
Growing up in Westbury and being involved in my local church taught me early on how important it is to have a support system. But I really honed that value when I was a resident assistant in college at Pace University. That role showed me how to build connections and create a sense of belonging for others. I carry that into my business by staying active in my community and making sure Nova Essence and Winnie’s Way are spaces where people feel seen and valued.
You’ve mentioned that your business played a huge role in getting you through a tough time. Can you tell us more about that?
The pandemic was a really dark period for me. I went through a lot of personal changes and felt like I’d lost my support system. I was in a low place, emotionally and mentally. Starting Nova Essence gave me a purpose—it was something to pour my energy into when everything else felt uncertain. Seeing it grow, especially after launching in 2023, was a turning point. It reminded me that I could rebuild and create something beautiful even after hardship.
The name Winnie’s Way Candle Cafe carries a special significance. Can you dive deeper into why you chose it?
Absolutely. Winnie the Pooh has always been close to my heart since I was a kid. I love how the characters in those stories each face their own challenges—whether it’s anxiety, sadness, or insecurity—but when they’re together, they create a safe haven for each other. That’s what I wanted the mobile cafe to represent. Winnie’s Way is about carving out a space where anyone, no matter what they’re going through, can feel a sense of peace and belonging.
What advice do you have for our readers who might be looking to start their own business or pursue a passion project?
My biggest piece of advice is to just start, even if you don’t have it all figured out. I didn’t know everything when I began Nova Essence—there was a huge learning curve, but I embraced it. Dive in, learn as you go, and don’t be afraid to fail. Also, build something that means something to you personally. When your business or project is tied to your values or your story, it gives you the strength to keep pushing through the tough times.
