Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in candle-making but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Aminta Freeman, Founder of Moodie Vibes, located in Staten Island, NY, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Moodie Vibes is a candle company based out of Staten Island, NYC. Each candle is hand-crafted in small batches using safe, clean ingredients and eco-friendly packaging. As a Mom who understands the necessity of self-care, I hand-pour each candle with the intention of creating a self-care experience for all but especially for Mothers, givers, and nurturers. The Scent of Self Care.
Tell us about yourself
I'm Aminta, the Owner and Founder of Moodie Vibes. I am a proud Guatemalan-American, raised in Brooklyn and residing in Staten Island, New York. I started making candles in 2021 but have been a candle hoarder for as long as I can remember. When my family dynamics changed, and I became a single mom of two, I turned to candles as a means of self-care. Candles helped create a space where I could replenish and fill my cup. I now hand-pour each candle with the intention of helping create a space for Mothers, givers, and nurturers to experience the scent of self-care.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment is every time I see an unboxing, I read a happy review. I receive a hug or smile from a mother or auntie, pampering herself and knowing. Our candles played a part in that experience. I am grateful for that accomplishment each time as a business owner and as a Mom myself.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
One of the hardest things that come with being a business owner is learning how to prioritize from day to day or even moment to moment. Sometimes the prioritizing looks like meeting with a photographer, working on the website, and candle making. Sometimes prioritizing means more meaningful time with family.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- My first tip would be to conduct lots of market research in terms of owners/makers in your field, materials/ingredients, packaging, manufacturers, business plans, mentors, and grant opportunities, to name a few.
- Get started. Start small, start afraid, start not knowing everything but get started. I am learning ...we are all learning as we go! Failures are actually where we learn most and do better/differently the next time around. There will never be a perfect time. Get started!
- Start creating a community on social media and share your process. It's been amazing to see the community support Moodie Vibes has embraced. You can be a source of inspiration as well as be inspired!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://moodievibes.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/facebook.moodievibes/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moodie__vibes/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@moodie__vibes
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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