Small Business Highlight: 5 Minutes with CandleLit and Co.
Today I have the pleasure in introducing you to a lovely business owner who has a great passion for gorgeous luxe soy candles.
A woman after my heart, as you may or may not know I only purchase and use products that are cruelty free (does not test on animals)
Here is an insight into Candlelit and Co.
1. Tell us how your business began.
CandleLit & Co. began right after my little girl Keira was born, let's just say it was her ''unexpected health issues" that got me thinking about making my own candles. Keira was born with TOF... A tracheoesophageal fistula, an abnormal connection between the esophagus and the trachea. A health condition that would make me re-think things...even small everyday things we take for granted. My husband and I always have enjoyed burning candles. It was, and still is, a daily ritual for us! So it got me thinking ''what are we really breathing in?" and after much research I decided it would benefit my family to know that we are burning chemical, lead free wicks and of course paraffin free wax.
When creating a CandleLit & Co. candle I only use eco soya wax and lead-free cotton wicks. My aim is to always provide the cleanest, highest quality candle possible with a luxe finish. Of course, let's not forget to mention the jars are re-usable. And that's when CandleLit & Co. was born.
2. How did you come up with your business name?
I had so many names in mind and like everyone wanted my business name to be original, but all credit goes out to my gorgeous sis who just pretty much blurted it out to me... and it just clicked! CandleLit & Co. and I gelled!
3. Your favourite /worst part of being in business?
I love what I do, I love just knowing that something I have created is in someone's living room, bedroom, bathroom and they look at that candle and they might smile at how yummy the scent is or just think 'this is so relaxing!"
I am not the type of person to say no and the hours can be tough. I am and always will be a mum first so if I can see that Keira needs me I will drop everything and create my candles until 3am if needed!
4. What do you think makes your business a success?
Simply the love I put in it (and my very patient helpful husband!!). I also like the fact that my candles have a luxe finish but at the same time economical to the buyer!
5. Did you have any formal training to get where you are today?
Once I decided I wanted to start my own business I attended a workshop in Melbourne. The actual candle making isn't hard in itself, rather it's the creativity each person has that I guess can't be taught.
6. What makes you stand out above all other similar businesses?
I'll let my customers and admirers answer that!
I have interacted with others running similar businesses and I can honestly say that there is a variety of designs in the market and a lot of talent! There are definitely equally amazing soy candles out there, so personal taste plays a role as well. CandleLit & Co. candles are very sharp, clean with a hint of playfulness. I am often teased by my family for being a perfectionist and I think this comes out in my candles!
7. What did you want to be growing up as a child?
I never really knew what I wanted to be when I grew up. But I did know that whatever life handed me, it had to involve getting my hands dirty, being creative and sharing my creativity with other people. And let's just say... I've taken the right direction with life's handout!
Please visit Candle lit and Co. here
Sorry to those who were here on Monday looking for my next post on small businesses, I have had the busiest weeks, and a very sad one too, as we had to fly interstate for a funeral.
It was my husband's uncle who sadly passed away. The reason I speak of this is because he was one inspirational man in many ways but in business as well. He and a friend took a risk and begun their own civil engineering business which became a multi million empire that it is today. Whenever I feel doubtful or fear what the future may hold for my business, I think of him and know I must trust my gut and go for it, and just keep on doing what I love...when you want something bad enough it will come.
I think these qualities are instilled in all of the business owners I have interviewed, and love working with many of these inspiring people!
