Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Ari Mc Intyre, owner of Candles By Ari, Inc., located in Studio City, CA, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

Hello, my name is Ari McIntyre; I'm a Spiritual Life Coach who makes Affirmation Aromatherapy Candles. My clients are people who want to believe that higher power exists and that it has a profound effect on every living creature on this planet. My clients are also sensitive individuals who use their five senses (taste, sight, smell, touch, and sound) to navigate with the flow of positive energy around them. I started this company because I knew my words would leave a lasting expression with the power of aromatherapy behind them. I started off just writing the affirmations per client and giving it to them. Then someone asks me to put in on the candles. That is how I knew I was on to something bigger than me. We help bring literally light to the world. That is why my tag line is Aromatherapy beyond the senses. Each soy candle has been developed over years of feedback from my clients. My vision is that every end-user achieves a sense of peace within themselves to achieve their goals.

Tell us about yourself

Candle making is a long-standing art. Candles have been around for centuries, but in modern times we use them for background and ambiance. I started making candles by myself because I could not find the scent; I knew my clients needed to stay centered. I made a total mess of my 1st apartment. There was wax on the ceiling because of excitement at putting the scents I wanted to share with my communities. At first, it was just for fun, then I went to General Wax in North Hollywood and started asking questions. I must have driven the clerks crazy. But I did find a true candle maker in a gentleman named Darryl who worked at General Wax. Darryl took the time to talk to me so that I could understand what I was trying to do. At first, I gave them away to get feedback. Then one day, a client stopped by on her way to a baby shower. She needed gifts for the communities, so she asked me how much? I was surprised, and she took every single candle I had made. She even asked me to make a repeat order! This was very exciting, and I wanted to continue to learn & grow. These last 15 years have taught me how much people need positive light in their lives. My goal now is to expand our products and service online to reach even more people.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My biggest accomplishment to date is achieving awards for donations to worthy causes all over the city. It feels good knowing we have helped the non-profit organization reach the local goals with our donations.

What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?

My hardest challenge is learning to pivot during the pandemic. We have had to change everything to meet the needs of our consumers, but we did it with a smile on our faces.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

  1. Learn your craft-Fall deeply in love with it. That love will keep you going when time get tough.
  2. Find a mentor in your field.
  3. Network and never stop learning

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Patience & endurance will win out every time. Just do not give up. Even if you have to move slower, then you prefer. Remember, you are the one in charge.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.candlesbyari.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/candlesbyari
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/candlesbyari/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/arimac123
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arimac/

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

Feel inspired to start, run or grow your own subscription business? Check out subkit.com and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.