Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in candle-making but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Karen Gore-Kirkland, owner of Heaven Scentz Candles, located in Canal Winchester, OH, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I am an online candle store. All my Candles are handmade from my very own home with love. I use nothing but the best candle supplies from quality wax and fragrance oil companies. I make candles. My customers actually cater to a lot of college students and also the older crowd who love my heavy scented candles that have a kick.
Tell us about yourself
I am a big fan of candles and have bought them on numerous occasions and have probably spent hundreds of dollars on them in my lifetime. I love just to relax and really love buying candles for the smell and also for the decor of my home. They bring a nice vibe and cozy feel to any atmosphere, situation, event, or just to relax. I got tired of spending my money on other big chain candle companies, and one day I said to myself, "This would be fun to try to make some on my own," and I did just that. I started testing and sampling different waxes and wicks and studying the science behind them. The big motivation behind my business is to pass my legacy down to my daughter, who is now in training to learn this business to take over my legacy when I choose to hang up the apron. This is allowing me to teach her that she, too, can have a business of any kind as long as she puts the work in and has fun doing it; anything is possible. My customers are also my motivation; just being able to purchase my candles and give feedback to me, either good or bad, this I feel allows you to do better and bring better; you can never set the bar high in this business to be better and make improvements.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment so far in this business was selling out of all my candles in 3 weeks from my launch date, which was recently on April 3rd, 2022, and I have constantly been selling out thereafter, so it has been a wonderful experience so far, and the feedback is phenomenal. There is still a lot of work to be done and much more things in the works.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
The hardest thing about being a business owner is learning to balance your business and also family and home time. Also, I would say making time to learn the business, keep in the know on new products coming out, Keeping your finances in check, and making sure you are not overspending so that you can make a profit.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Know that this business is not a walk in the park, and it takes time, consistency, and drive to want to be in this kind of business.
- Research, Test, and know what goals you are looking to accomplish when starting the business. Don't think you have to know everything; some things you will catch on to are too quick, and some things are not that easy.
- Most of all, HAVE FUN doing what you are creating; it's only right.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
I started my business during the pandemic and had no advice, no mentor, or anything to guide me, only what I researched myself. I say this to say; that sometimes you are the only one in your way to make something happen. Get out of your way, face your fears and go for what you want in life, no matter what it is. You only live once. Make it count.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.heavenscentzcandles.net/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100073676760854
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heavenscentz123/
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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