Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in candle-making but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Salina Suarez, Founder of Lightened Candle Co., located in Port Richey, FL, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I handcraft cement containers and hand-pour coconut blended candles that are all-natural, non-toxic, and clean burning! When creating this product, I pulled out a lot of inspiration based on my needs and what makes me feel at my most relaxed. So, for anyone needing a product to add to their self-care routine and who loves catchy puns, these candles are just for you!
Tell us about yourself
My husband and I randomly took this candle workshop class and legit had the best time ever. I wanted to take the class over and over again because of how fun and relaxing it was. I always kept it in the back of my mind to experience that again, but life got in the way. Suddenly, I got slapped in the face with the reality of how short life is. So, I took a chance on myself to learn more about the world of candle-making and fell completely in love with the whole process. CHOICE is my motivation. It's such an underrated blessing that most don't praise, but I'm honestly so thankful that I get to choose what I do with my time, how I think, and how I execute anything I desire to put my mind to.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I always say my biggest flex is my growth. The fact that I just took a chance on myself and decided to start is so huge on any given level.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Some days are silent. Like really silent. It's scary and makes you start to put negative thoughts in your brain, especially when you don't know how to control those thoughts. But I've realized that silent days are still filled with an endless number of opportunities.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Your last breath could be in the next five seconds. Whatever you've had a desire to put your time into, JUST START.
- Living under your means doesn't mean you're not meant to enjoy the good things in life. It's simply just you being smart about your finances and setting yourself up for success in the long run.
- Product: 20%. Marketing: 80%.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Above all else, learn to have faith and believe that everything will work out the way it is supposed to, and listen to your body when it tells you, "TAKE A BREAK!"
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://lightenedcandleco.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lightenedcandleco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lightenedcandleco/
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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