Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in candle making but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Danielle Mclaughlin, Owner of Beach Bee Candle Company, located in Virginia Beach, VA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Beach Bee Candle Company is an Earth-friendly candle company based out of Virginia Beach. We specialize in beeswax+ coconut wax candles that are Phthalate free and made with an all-natural fragrance. Our customers enjoy our premium products sold at affordable prices. They also love to take advantage of our jar buyback program, where they get money off their next candles when they return their Beach Bee candle jars.
Tell us about yourself
My name is Danielle Mclaughlin; I grew up in Virginia Beach and a very artistic household. My mom owned a small candle shop at our local market when I was young. I remember watching her pour each weekend and feeling inspired. I have always loved creating too, and I found my passion in candle making in 2020. I love making healthier candle options with aromas that put smiles on my customer's faces. Several of my candles are inspired by places right here in my hometown, like Back Bay and Pungo Beach. I am motivated by my 11-year-old daughter, who aspires to be a business owner someday. She helps me each weekend as I work at my local market.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment as a business was managing a full-time corporate career and still getting my candles into 9 stores across the United States and 2 local shops in my hometown. In May 2022, I opened my first storefront location at the Painted Tree Boutiques in Hilltop Virginia Beach (Shop B9).
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
One of the hardest things that come with being a business owner is finding the time you need for life outside of business. You must find the balance, so you do not become overwhelmed and forget the other priorities you have in your life, including yourself.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Three tips I'd give anyone looking to start or grow a business would be to work hard, stay creative and open-minded, and always remain true to yourself.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Beach Bee wouldn't be where it is without the support from our first and current hometown market, Shore Drive Farmers Market (Saturdays 9a-12p), and other pop-up markets that gave me the opportunity to showcase my products. I am forever grateful. I encourage anyone interested to look into your local pop-up markets and get involved in the community to get your name out there for everyone to see!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://beachbeecandles.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Beachbeecandleco/
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.
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