Small Biz Profile: How Denise Builds Loyal Customers with Heart & Hustle

For Denise Steele, owner of a successful Scentsy business, running a small business isn’t just about selling products—it’s about building relationships. From day one, Denise took a personal approach to her business, making it clear to her clients that she cares about more than just the sale. Her focus on customer service, meaningful gestures, and community involvement has made her a standout in her field. Here’s how she grew her business by making every client feel valued.

Starting Small and Dreaming Big

When Denise started her Scentsy business, it was a side project she could do from home while juggling a busy life—her husband’s trucking schedule, her own schoolwork, and later, the demands of raising children. But soon, the business became much more than a way to make money; it became a source of independence, identity, and purpose.

​“I started out just because I loved the products,” she says. “But as I went on, I realized I loved the work and the community I was building even more. It pushed me out of my comfort zone as an introvert and helped me find a voice in my business.”

I started out just because I loved the products, but as I went on, I realized I loved the work and the community I was building even more.

Creating Connections through Customer Service

For Denise, customer service isn’t a tactic; it’s a way of life. She’s known for going the extra mile to make her clients feel appreciated, from sending personalized thank-you notes to mailing small gifts like Scentsy samples. Her commitment to these small gestures has turned customers into repeat clients who look forward to her packages.

“One of my clients told me, ‘I love checking the mail now because it smells amazing every time you send something!’” she laughs. “It’s those little things that make people feel special and build loyalty.”

​Her approach is simple but effective: treat every customer as a friend. After a sale, she follows up with handwritten notes and checks in with clients to ensure they’re happy with their products. This personal touch has become a hallmark of her brand, one that her clients notice and remember.

Investing in the Community

Beyond customer service, Denise has built a reputation as a connector in her community. She’s involved in local networking groups and community events, and she doesn’t hesitate to support her clients outside of business. Whether it’s buying items from a child’s school fundraiser or showing up to local events, she’s become a familiar face.

“People reach out to me, even if they don’t know me personally, because they’ve heard I know everyone,” she says. “I’ve had people come to me asking for advice on growing their own businesses, and I love helping them out however I can.”

​This involvement has given her business a natural boost. By showing up and investing time in her community, she’s become a trusted local resource, making it easy for people to think of her when they need a Scentsy gift or just want to brighten their home with new scents.

Networking with Purpose

Denise believes that networking is about more than just handing out business cards—it’s about building relationships. She’s joined groups like the Chamber of Commerce and attends local events, which have helped her grow her business and her network in ways she never imagined.

​When I started, I was nervous. But networking allowed me to find my place in the business community. I’ve made friends, grown my client base, and learned so much from other entrepreneurs,

She advises other business owners to find networking groups that fit their personality and business goals. “Not every group is the right fit for everyone. I tried a few different ones until I found places that felt supportive and aligned with my goals.”

Tips for Exceptional Client Care

When asked about her secrets to building strong client relationships, Denise shares a few practical tips:

1. Start Small: “It can be overwhelming to try and do everything at once. Start with a simple thank-you note or a small gift, then build from there.”
2. Keep Track: She uses an Excel spreadsheet and project management tools to keep tabs on her clients’ birthdays, anniversaries, and preferences, so she can personalize her interactions.
3. Be Generous with Your Time: “Generosity goes a long way. I try to make my clients feel appreciated, whether through a small gift or just taking the time to ask about their day.”

Building a Legacy of Community Support

For Denise, the rewards of her business extend far beyond profit. She’s built a brand rooted in kindness, service, and genuine connection. Her advice for other business owners? “Invest in your clients and your community. When people feel like they’re more than just a transaction, they’re happy to support you and send others your way.”

​From personal notes to community involvement, Denise shows us that building a business isn’t just about what you sell—it’s about the relationships you create along the way. And as she continues to grow, her story serves as an inspiring example of the impact one person can make by leading with heart.

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Learn about Denise!

Denise Steele has lived in Kitsap County since 1994 when her family moved up here when Mare Island closed down. Her husband, Garrett and her have been married 12 years and have two children. Besides being a business owner, Denise is a teacher, author, and foster parent. Denise is a Leadership Kitsap 20 under 40 Honoree and was awarded the Silverdale Chamber of Commerce's Chamber Member of the Year and Silverdale Chamber of Commerce's Business Member of the Month awards.

Website: www.denisemompreneur.com
Email: [email protected]