Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in candle-making but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Shawnielle Henry, Owner of Cloud 9 Candle Co., located in Milford, DE, USA.

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

Cloud 9 Candle Co. hand pours small batched and captivating scented candles and other aroma products! My customers include women and men of all ages who love to keep their homes filled with Cloud 9 aroma.

Tell us about yourself

I like to refer to myself as a candlenista! Candle-making came to me at the peak of the pandemic. As a first year teacher, everything changed so drastically for me! Aside from teaching, I was also a first-time mother. Being home allowed me to begin searching for something else to do. I’ve always loved candles, so it just made sense to me. I began making, and after months of testing, I birthed Cloud 9! We will soon be celebrating three years of business, and I couldn’t be happier.

My motivation to keep going comes from my princess Alaya & my husband! My drive truly comes from her to keep pushing forward. I was literally dancing around the kitchen with her in my arms, making candles when she was an infant! My husband is my biggest supporter; with any ideas I may have, he’s right there behind me, helping me bring them to fruition.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My biggest accomplishment yet is being able to give back to other small business owners! I host a yearly pop-up shop to bring awareness and exposure to other businesses; this year was my 3rd event, and I plan to continue to do this for many more years to come!

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

Marketing has got to be one of the biggest challenges I’ve encountered. It’s times consuming, and it has to be created constantly. I have definitely learned to record everything I do business-wise because behind-the-scenes footage is a fan fave!

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

  1. Never give up!
  2. Makes plans to move forward no matter what!
  3. Get personal with your customers!

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://cloud9candleco.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Cloud9CandleCo
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cloud9candleco/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/_Cloud9CandleCo


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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