Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in candle-making but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Chay Guevarra, Founder of Amina Candle Co., located in Calgary, AB, Canada.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

AMINA CANDLE CO produces high-quality crystal-infused scented candles made from 100% coconut soy wax, organic wooden wicks, Phthalate, and paraben-free fragrance oils. AMINA CANDLE CO caters to everyone who wants to create a cozy space, all while focusing on a cause, sharing warmth and light to others in a world in need of just that. It's the centre of all that we do in life, and Amina Candle Co is no different. Light a candle in the darkness while we shine the light on mental awareness.

Tell us about yourself

I started Amina Candle Co as a hobby, and basically because I could not afford bath and body work anymore during the beginning of Coviid when everything was shutting down, and the hoarding of toilet paper began. Just like everyone around the world, I also experienced heightened anxiety and bouts of depression. I knew I needed to focus that bad energy somewhere and turn it into something positive after all; my children are just too perfect not to have a happy mom! I have never thought of myself as a creative person, but in the name of trying new things outside of my comfort zone, I made my first candle. Eventually, I wanted to make more and more of it making it different and better each time. I decided after having my other business shut down and eating all the pandemic snacks with my kids and husband, I would make candles.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Running a business is no joke! It takes time away from family. Sometimes resources away from family. Not to mention time away from caring for one's self. My biggest accomplishment in creating AMINA CANDLE CO is still being able to centre it around my family. Make sure everyone still has a sense of balance between our family business and life. Finding happiness and worth in what we do daily.

What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?

One of the hardest things in being a business owner was the timing AMINA CANDLE CO was created. During that period of time, a lot of people suffered from depleted mental health and low morale. It was such a dark time of transition into a new lifestyle, which seemed like it was never going to get better. Turning THAT into something positive and a tangible change was hard. Feeling joy and comfort needed to be centred and priority, and that's how AMINA CANDLE CO. was born.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

  1. Take the leap of faith, and believe in what you do!
  2. Have a clear vision of where you want to take your business.
  3. Be patient and trust the process; no honest business is built overnight.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

How did we decide on the name AMINA CANDLE CO.?

My son Amari Michael (name meaning "eternal" and his middle name in the dedication of his late dear uncle) - is a very smiley lover of all things, a kind-hearted boy. He lives his life with such a light that fills an entire room, and it is so selfless.

My daughter Mina Honora (name meaning "gift" and her middle name in the dedication of my paternal grandmother who raised me) - is feisty, saucy, and nurturing all at the same time. She is a loyal daddy's girl and protector of all things princess and mermaids. Therefore, meet our family love project - AMINA CANDLE CO.! We combined our kids' first names to Amina, which also means "trust" and "faith." I mean, it just feels right; we are exactly where we are supposed to be!

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.aminacandleco.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Amina-Candle-Co-107685778367351
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aminacandleco/

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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