Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in candle-making but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Anastasia Proshina, owner of Agaboo Candles LLC., located in Charlotte, NC, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I create sculptural candles and aroma sachets from natural soy wax. Everyone loves a nice scent, especially when you open the doors of your closet and it smells nice with a fruity or floral scent. That is the main function of aroma sachets. This is a natural fragrance dispenser for your closet, workplace, and everything! You can hang it anywhere! Except in the car, it will melt in the car :)
My customers are mostly women. All women love to smell nice and love beautiful things for home decor. My sculptural candles are just right for that. I create both small and large size candles. They can decorate any room!
Tell us about yourself
I have always wanted to be a programmer. I studied it at university. But after trying it, I realized that it wasn't my dream. I am a creative person. I like to create. Last year I gave birth to a daughter. And when she was a little over six months old, I saw a video on YouTube of a girl making candles. It was love at first sight. I immediately ordered myself a candle-making kit. And that's when it all kicked off. I was making candles every day. I just dipped into it. I loved it so much. It became my favorite hobby.
When my daughter was asleep, I practiced candle-making. Then my candles started getting noticed by friends and also on Instagram when I posted photos. And more and more people asked to make something for them. And little by little, it started to bring me a small income, which is nice since I lost my job on maternity leave. The most important motivation for me is that I do what I like to do, and at the same time, I still earn money from it. Also, on maternity leave, it is very convenient.
Everything remains the same, while my daughter sleeps, I make candles :) also, I am pleased to read compliments from those who buy my products and remain wildly delighted. It also motivates me to keep creating and realize that I'm doing everything right.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My business is not yet big enough to talk about huge achievements. The most important achievement for me is that I am doing a business I like. And every day, I put my soul into it so that it grows exponentially.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Trying to satisfy everyone. You have to understand that it's impossible to satisfy everyone, there will always be someone who will have a problem with something. The wrong color or the wrong flavor. So you don't have to worry about anything.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Don't be afraid to experiment. The main thing is to start and to take the first step. If this is yours, it will grow like a snowball. Like every day, you will think about how to improve your business.
- Do not listen to anyone who will teach you how to do this or that in your business. You will always know better than they do.
- Know that you are doing everything right!
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Follow your dream!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.agaboocandle.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/agaboo.candles
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/agaboo.candles/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
Turn your craft into recurring revenue with Subkit. Start your subscription offering in minutes and supercharge it with growth levers. Get early access here.