Faces of AWNY: Meet Jennifer Azzopardi

Jennifer & Tia Metaxas at AWNY ZENYORK International Women’s Day Event 2025

Why did you move to NYC?

In June of 2019, my husband got the chance to transfer with his company to join a new team they were putting together. We’d always talked about living overseas, so we were super excited about the opportunity to move to New York City. Of course, we brought our mini Dachshund, Linguine, with us.

What do you do for work in NYC?

I run my own business full-time. I started Scent & Sprout in 2020 during the pandemic. I’d always dreamed of launching my own business, and with all the time from the lockdown, I finally had the chance to dive in. Scent & Sprout is a candle brand that’s all about sustainability and using natural ingredients. Since then, I’ve also launched room sprays, reed diffusers, and most recently, paw balms!

What neighborhood do you live in? Why did you choose it? Why do you like living in it?

We moved to Greenpoint at the end of 2022. We had been living in Williamsburg but were looking for something a little different, though not too far away. We love that it’s still close to everything. The community vibe here is amazing, and I really appreciate that most of the stores are small businesses. It’s such a great feeling!

Favorite NYC cocktail spot & cocktail of choice

If I had to pick one spot, it would definitely be Maison Premiere in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. I’ve been there at least 20 times, and it’s the place we always take visitors to when they come from Australia. My go-to cocktail? The Absinthe Colada, hands down.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given about living/working in NYC?

Always say yes to any opportunity—it often leads to something even bigger down the line!

What’s your biggest achievement since living in NYC?

Since starting my business, I’ve had so many amazing opportunities, but I’d say the biggest achievement was having my candles featured at the Nike store in Williamsburg. It was for a community event to celebrate their opening, and I was asked to attend and showcase my candles. From that event, I got to connect with other small business owners, which led to a ton of great collaborations!

How has being in NYC changed or developed your career?

If I hadn’t moved to NYC – I don’t think I would have started my own business. While I was waiting for my working authorization, I had the time to evaluate what I really wanted to do. Living here has also provided me with opportunities that I don’t know if I would have been able to do if I was to live elsewhere.