Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in candle-making but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Jeannine Escobar, Founder of Buena Vista Candle Co., located in Miami, FL, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Buena Vista Candle Co. is an aromatic scent studio based in Miami, Florida, devoted primarily to candle craftsmanship, bespoke scent development projects, and aromatherapy consultations. Since its inception in 2016, I've focused on creating natural products for mindful consumers who practice discernment when investing in well-being products.
Tell us about yourself
My name is Jeannine Escobar, and while working for a media publishing company in the UK, I developed a keen interest in herbalism and homeopathy, which led me to research many other modalities in my free time. After training with a chandlery in London first, and then later deepening my aromatherapy education in NYC, I returned to my hometown, Miami, in 2017 after a decade away working in media production and creative brand strategy. Seizing the change of pace from my former career, I honed in on my aromatic interests and education by establishing a small scent studio. In the same vein of consulting for my branding clients, I set out to establish an elevated and ethical company almost as a case study. It may sound idealistic, but all these years later, I still cannot believe this is my work, and I'm motivated daily by the possibility of creating something new that my clients will enjoy using in their spaces.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I feel immense pride when developing collaboratively with my clients. Guiding a client's concept to life is a mutually rewarding process from inception to completion. One of my most exciting projects to date was getting to create a bespoke scent that captures the modern essence of The Audubon Experience, a stunning immersive art installation designed by Sasha Bikoff and creative director Cori Mizrahi. The gallery room is a maximalist's neon dream, and the scent brings another layer of wonder to the space.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
The most challenging aspect of being a business owner is also the most rewarding component – it's the risk. It's challenging because assuming all the responsibility can feel incredibly heavy at times, yet seeing all your hard work pay off definitely makes it worthwhile.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
In an effort to be concise, my top tips are as follows:
- Never stop learning.
- Find a trusted mentor.
- Remember to breathe and take it one day at a time.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://buenavistacandles.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BuenaVistaCandles
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/buenavistacandles/
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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