Scents That Bring Your Home to Life

Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in candle-making but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Domonique Harris, Owner of Books Tabs and Wicks, located in Lincoln, NE, USA.

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

Books Tabs and Wicks is a candle company that focuses on bringing all things fictional to life. Does your favorite book, movie, tv-show characters/places? We want to imagine how each of those things you love would smell if they were tangible. Our customers are always the most imaginative people ever; I'm always so pleased when I get new candle requests or custom orders for things that I would have never put together myself.

Tell us about yourself

I'm Domonique, the owner of Books Tabs and Wicks. I'm honestly one of the least professional business owners that could ever exist; I'm 22 and in my last(ish) year of college. I never have any real idea what's going on and fly completely by the seat of my pants. I started my business honestly because I thought the villain from the book I was reading sounded extremely hot, and I wanted to know what he smelled like. Three and a half years later, it seems like a lot of other people were just as into the idea as I am!

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My biggest accomplishment was in 2020, when I was able to take my business and go full-time! I felt so proud of myself for managing to build something that could support all of my needs at the time. I was able to move from a stressful childcare job to working from my own home for myself.

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

There is no one to keep you focused, motivated, or from quitting except yourself. Having a business and having every responsibility known to man on your shoulders is a lot of pressure, and while most of the time it's really rewarding, it can be exhausting!

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

My biggest tip would be to be authentically you. I, for one, don't enjoy small businesses that don't showcase the creators' personalities. I think another huge tip, especially right now, is to use social media, post when it works for you, but grow an audience who loves what you make/post. Lastly, I think it's never too early to take your finances seriously. SAVE MONEY FOR TAXES!

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://bookstabsandwicks.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bookstabsandwicks
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bookstabsandwicks/

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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