Elevating Your Self-Care Through Scent

Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in candle-making but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Holly Wilkerson, founder of Candle Wonders, located in California, USA.

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

I am an advocate for my busy fellow women making time for themselves and carving out those much-needed quiet moments so that we show up whole in all areas of our lives. Candle Wonders offers a way to do this with our eco-friendly, scented soy wax candles made with a mixture of phthalate-free, non-toxic essential and fragrance oils along with lead-free cotton wicks. We also use recyclable and biodegradable shipping materials. Not only do our beautiful candles enhance any decor, but they will fill your space with lovely aromas as well.

Tell us about yourself

I am self-employed as a busy Executive Director, so candles have always been my go-to for their calming effects. I started Candle Wonders early on in the pandemic when things started to shut down. I thought to myself, "How hard can making a candle be?!" Well, I soon found out that it is definitely a science that requires much testing, but once you figure out your special formula, candle making is a very relaxing craft, and I am so glad I found it. I am motivated by the many comments I receive from my customers about how they enjoy my candles and the various scents. It is the utmost feeling knowing that you are helping others to put themselves first.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

I am always improving and excited for the next step, but I think it is so important to sometimes take a step back and appreciate how far I've come in my business. I have had some really proud moments along the way, but I would say that partnering with my local Atrium Eco-Market has been one for the books. Their goal of building a sustainable future aligns perfectly with my brand, so I am very proud of this.

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

Getting the word out about your business when you first start is the hardest obstacle. Friends and family support is wonderful, but once you are able to convince a stranger to buy your product, then you know you are on your way. Social media is a great tool, but I also love being able to meet people in person and have them experience the candle scents in real-time.

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

Practice patience daily. Each day continue to do the work, and eventually, you will see the growth.
Don't be so hard on yourself. Building a business is not for the faint of heart. It is very hard work!
Hire people who can help you get to where you want to be. This doesn't show weakness, but rather it shows your strength and the belief in your brand.

I absolutely love what I do, and I also love the relationships I am building with my customers. I feel like I am just getting started in a lot of ways, so I am here for wherever this journey takes me!

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.candlewonders.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/candlewondersco/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/candle_wonders/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/candle_wonders

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.