Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in candle-making but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Lisa Ryder, co-founder of Green Ash Decor, located in Dundas, ON, Canada.

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

We provide candle lovers who want to avoid toxins in their homes with a safe, non-toxic resource for healthy, sustainable candles. Our products use only Canadian Beeswax & Coconut Wax, 100% Essential Oils, natural wicks & reusable containers that are good for you and the planet, made locally in Dundas, Ontario!

Tell us about yourself

In my own pursuit to purchase healthy candles, I've continually been frustrated by the lack of options. And perplexed by why candles are shipped across the world on our precious oceans, when they can be made locally. I also didn't like the single-use containers that many candles come in.

I love receiving and buying candles, but I'm dismayed when it's an unknown wax and wick or the verbiage is vague. For example, Coconut Wax Blend is generally blended with soy wax, which for many reasons, I think should be avoided (soya and soy wax are quite controversial, but the more I read, the more I lean towards avoidance). Also, vague terms like 'vegetable wax,' 'eco- wax,' or no mention of the wax at all, which generally implies it is made from the highly toxic paraffin wax. And then there are the fragrance oils, which can be filled with parabens and phthalates.

I think that a lot of people are just not aware that conventional candles contain toxins and can pollute your indoor air. I'm motivated each day to educate and provide a local, healthy, sustainable alternative to what is currently being offered.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Repeat customers! It's a very rewarding feeling, knowing that I'm providing something that people want, and then they come back for more!

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

So many choices and decisions. Owning the ups and downs.

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

Just go for it! Read great books and listen to great podcasts. Believe in what you do.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.greenashdecor.ca/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/greenashdecor
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/greenashdecor/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-ryder-8b079417/

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.