Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in candle-making but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Paige Graham, Founder of Paige's Candle Co., located in Queens, NY, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Paige's Candle Co. is a candle manufacturing company specializing in soy wax candles and natural products. We work directly with consumers, sell via wholesale, and offer private label services to companies looking for a unique way to market their products. We also offer customized wedding candles.
Tell us about yourself
My name is Paige Graham, and I am a self-taught candle maker. I have been making candles for 11 years, and my company, Paige's Candle Co., has been in business for five years. I grew up in a low-income neighborhood in the Bronx and was exposed to local non-profit organizations that offered free craft programs to youth. Due to this early exposure, I knew that I wanted my candle company to give back to my local NYC community in the same way. A portion of all sales is donated to City Harvest, a non-profit organization helping to feed hungry New Yorkers in need. In addition, each quarter, PCC donates a candle-making workshop to a local non-profit organization specializing in inner-city community development. Yes - Paige's Candle Co. is a candle company, but it's one with a mission to help make NYC an equitable place for those interested in craft and sustainability.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My business accomplishment as a business owner was turning my self-made hobby into a full-time business and honing it into a company that gives back. I've had my challenges, but I'm proud to see my vision come to fruition.
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 time management. It's very easy to get "lost in the sauce" or, in my case - "lost in the wax." Owning a handmade manufacturing company is challenging because not only do I develop formulas for my company and clients, I assist in hand-making products, facilitate in-person craft markets, develop partnerships with corporations, oversee our e-commerce platforms, work directly with the press, and oversee the day to day operations. I often don't understand why there are only 24 hours in a day, but I'm learning that I need to schedule proper rest within it. Without proper rest, I can't be at my best.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Read about your field and overall business operations daily. This can be easily done with audiobooks (multi-tasking is the bomb). It's important to constantly stay knowledgeable about industry changes, new trends in your field, and ways to optimize your income stream.
- Look for ways to automate. There are plenty of ways to make sure that you are not overwhelmed with day-to-day tasks that can be easily handed over to someone else or something else. There are apps to help schedule social media posts, manage your calendar, etc. There are affordable ways to work with people and get affordable services. You can usually find these things through your local small business association.
- NEVER STOP. Really, it's that simple. There will be grueling days where you're like, "Why am I doing this?" "Am I good enough?" "What if I don't make it?" You're the best person for your position. You are good enough. You will make it. The trick for any successful person is to not stop trying.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://paigescandleco.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/paigescandleco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paigescandleco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paigemgraham/
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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