Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in candle-making but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Stefania Moccia, owner of Temper + Lace, located in High River, AB, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Temper + Lace is all about luxurious self-care and comfort. We hand pour pure soy wax, wooden wick candles with phthalate and paraben-free fragrance oil, and pure essential oils. We also offer cozy apparel, freshly roasted coffee, and essential oil blends for your diffuser. Our customers are big-time candle lovers and feel confident purchasing from us because they know we use the highest quality materials in our products. Our essential oils are globally sourced from top oil producers. Our fragrance oils are phthalate, paraben, carcinogen, toxin, and mutagen free. Our soy wax is made right here in Canada and contains zero paraffin. Did we mention all of our products are cruelty-free and vegan? :)
Tell us about yourself
I actually worked in social services as a family counselor before I decided to open my own business. After a particularly rough case, I quit my job and spent about a month back in my hometown, Winnipeg. I had no idea what I was going to do. I quit a great career and didn't have anything to fall back on. One day a friend suggested I do some crafting to get my mind off things. So, I went on Pinterest and YouTube and stumbled across someone making candles. One thing led to another, and I decided to turn my crafting into a real business.
Something that motivates me to keep going is the messages I get from my customers. Many of them say our candles have become a huge part of their self-care routine. Just knowing that something I have made with my own hands is helping others is huge for me.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I think the fact that 90% of my customers are returning customers is a huge accomplishment. It tells me that what I'm doing is working!
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Soooo many things. But the biggest one for me is not being able to spend as much time with my loved ones as I'd like. I really work 24/7, 365 days a year, haha!
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
I have one tip - JUST DO IT! There is no better time than now to start the business of your dreams. Don't worry about what anyone says - block out the noise and just do it.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.temperandlace.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/temperlace/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/temperandlace/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
Feel inspired to start, run or grow your own subscription business? Check out subkit.com and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.
