Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in candle-making but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Marie Downing, Owner of 4 Elements Healing, located in Barriere, BC, CA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Cranky Crow is my home-based working studio with a zen garden, eclectic collection of trinkets, and an array of herbs and flowers harvested for my products. Sharing my time in the shop is Cooper, our Mini Australian Shepard, who is always happy to share a kiss!
4 Elements candles are created to fit individual needs: helping to heal the mind, body, and soul. They are created using aromatherapy (essential oils), crystal therapy, herbalism, and colour. I also make bath salts, oil synergies, tinctures, loose incense, and herbal teas.
My hand-blended herbal teas are made with a variety of flowers and herbs. I also use traditional healing plants such as Mullen, Dandelion, and Burdock root. These teas may help many ailments such as inflammation, asthma, and migraines and boost the immune system. When creating my blends, I mix by intuition as well as intention, putting my energies into my products. Because of this, I will not make blends if I am not feeling my best, sick, or just plain cranky!
My customers are people of all ages who are interested in getting balanced spiritually and lowering their stress. I always encourage everyone to manifest their happiness and take time to unplug, unwind, and breathe!
Tell us about yourself
Art has always been a passion for me. I was born with a pencil in my hand. For 30-plus years, I worked as a graphic designer in print shops, newspapers, and my own business (Cranky Crow Designs - now the name of my studio). I was also a fine artist, inks being my medium of choice.
Graphic design is fast-paced and stressful with demanding deadlines, and after many years of this, burnout started. Health problems became more prevalent over the years; in 2013, my symptoms became more aggressive and severe. Tremors, loss of coordination, inability to write or paint, and by 2015 I could no longer work. I had to stop riding my motorcycle, quit my job, stop painting, and could no longer manage my house and garden. In 2017, I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease, and I immediately started researching ways to cope with and manage my health daily. My son encouraged me to try yoga, meditation, and crystal therapy. These were beneficial in helping me to be calm, relax and unwind. A healthy diet and supplements, listening to my body, and getting rest when needed, have allowed me to be productive in my days.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My Parkinson’s affects my memory and can cause severe anxiety. Having my studio and attending shows and venues has helped to alleviate my stress when appearing in public.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
For me, one of the most difficult things is sourcing supplies at a reasonable cost. I live in a rural community where shopping is limited, and shipping can be costly and unreliable.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Love what you do; every day is a great day if you love your work!
- Know your costs of goods.
- Be prepared to spend many hours in your shop.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://crankycrow.ca/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/crankycrowstudio
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/4elements_healing/
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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