Starting a business can often feel like a leap into a black hole, you don’t know what’s in it, but when you have drive, determination and curiosity, you more then likely find out. However, for me it was more like discovering creativity I didn’t know I had. My path to the world of candles began with frustration of not finding scents that either relaxed me or I was absolutely in love with.
The Spark of Inspiration
Candles have always been very therapeutic for me. Back in 2020, right before the world shut down, I was standing in line at Home Goods (nothing against Home Goods, I still go there), I was buying $200 worth of candles thinking about how they were made. It was in line that I received a inner message about making my own candles that were less toxic, yet, highly fragrant candles with love. Hence, Sealed By Love Candle Co. was born, but what makes mine unique and different? I create them in small batches, with very selective and unique blended fragrances right from my home striving to inspire self-care, personal and professional growth, mindfulness and peace.
Experimenting and Learning
I’m a learner and “just do it” at heart. I did not start small, I dove right in after purchasing a kit from my local craft store. I failed and failed repeatedly. Everything from no scent to too much scent, to no wick flame to way too much wick flame. I kept a fire extinguisher nearby just in case, but I also made plenty of notes and videos about what I did, what went wrong and what went right. The good news is, like many of us, I learned by doing.
I spent countless hours, and months experimenting with different waxes, wicks, and fragrance oils. I consistently reviewed what worked and what didn’t, slowly honing my skills. I also began to appreciate the art and science behind candle making. It wasn’t just about melting wax and adding scents; it was about finding the perfect balance to create a candle that was both beautiful and functional.
From Hobby to Business
As my candle skills improved, I started giving them as gifts to friends and family. The positive and negative feedback was great but also, overwhelming. People loved the unique scents, the quality and the humorous taglines of my candles. Then I decided I should sell them.
The idea of turning my hobby into a business was both exciting and daunting. I had no experience in running a business, although I’d worked 30 plus years in making organizations and companies money, those skills are priceless and I was hella passionate about my candles. So here we go!
Learning, Researching and More Learning
Starting a business was a steep learning curve. Everything is a learning curve, from marketing to managing inventory. I spent hours researching branding, packaging, and social media strategies and craft markets and pop-ups. I wanted my brand to reflect the care and love I put into each candle, so I focused on creating a cohesive and appealing brand name and image.
Overcoming Challenges
Like all business owners there were moments of self-doubt and obstacles I hadn’t anticipated. From shipping delays to supplier issues, to rained out and slow markets, each challenge tested my resolve, patience and commitment. But each time, I learned and adapted, growing stronger and more confident in my abilities.
Looking Ahead
Today, my candle business is thriving. I have expanded my product line to include a variety of scents and candle types, and I’m always exploring new ideas and trends. What started as a simple curiosity has turned into a fulfilling and rewarding venture. If anything, I leave you with, knowing you can never go wrong when you believe in yourself. You never know where it might lead you. ❤️
