Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in candle-making but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Jeff & Laura Cribbie, Founders of Old Time Candle Co., located in Lincoln, ON, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Our business is Old Time Candle Co. We are a small candle and home decor company out of Lincoln, Ontario, Canada. Our customers are people who enjoy candles and home decor made in a slow, small batch fashion using sustainable materials.
Tell us about yourself
Old Time Candle Co was born out of our time at home during the pandemic; we were looking for a way to be productive and scratch that creative itch. We have both enjoyed candle-making and other crafting since childhood, and this was a nice way to bring that to life. We are motivated by the opportunity to be invited into the homes and lives of our customers through our products; it's a heartwarming feeling to be able to help others make their houses a home.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Our biggest accomplishment as business owners has been expanding our offerings to include wedding favours. This creates a more one-on-one experience with our customers, which gives us an opportunity to create a special touch and help them celebrate such an important milestone.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
One of the hardest things that come with being a business owner is coming up with creative ideas for new products and marketing. Oftentimes this involves really thinking outside of the box to come up with something that is going to appeal to our customer base. We do, however, enjoy the opportunity this gives us to interact with them and find out what works best in their space.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Be confident in what you're selling, including your products and yourself! Knowing the effort and quality that is going into your product/service will make it easier in terms of marketing, selling, and customer service. (Only you know how hard you work, be confident you did a good job).
- Don't get discouraged if you have a slow season; sales will fluctuate throughout the year, and you just need to go with the flow and keep trying! It's worth it to have the opportunity to be your own boss and be in control from the ground up!
- Be aware of all the costs that go into what you are selling, including your time! Don't devalue your time; it is worth more than you realize!
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Thanks for having us, and feel free to check us out on our website and on our socials! We love having the opportunity to work together as a team to bring you these great products, and we hope to continue to do that!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.oldtimecandleco.ca/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/oldtimecandleco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oldtimecandleco/
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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