Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in candle-making but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Amanda McKnight, owner of Historian Candle Co., located in Pittsburgh, PA, USA.

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

My business is Historian Candle Co.! I make and sell scented candles and wax melts that are inspired by pop culture–video games, tv shows, movies, and more! Our scents are all completely unique blends. Whether or not you're familiar with the pieces of pop culture, the products are inspired by the scents that are so special and wonderful that everyone can find something they love in our collection!

Tell us about yourself

For as long as I can remember, I have been fascinated by all things pop culture. Video games, tv shows, books, movies, you name it. This fascination only grew stronger when I majored in history during college and grad school, hence the name Historian Candle Co.! As a historian, the majority of my research has focused on pop culture and the impact it's had on society. Our favorite pieces of pop culture define who we are as individuals. I can say without a doubt that my favorite games, books, movies, and tv shows played a huge part in shaping me into who I am today.

Another great passion of mine has always been candles; I've honestly lost track of how many candles I've gone through throughout my life. So when I decided to create Historian Candle Co. I was so excited to be able to mix together so many of my passions into one amazing business. My business initially started as a home project during the start of the pandemic, but I found that I loved it so much that it quickly grew and eventually turned into my full-time job!

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Getting positive feedback from my customers on how much a product they purchased from me meant to someone who received it as a gift. It's so special and touching to me that people send my products as gifts to their loved ones!

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

Being on the clock 24/7. Making your own work hours is wonderful, but it's very different than a traditional office job where you're done for the day at a certain time. Running your own business is a big commitment, but it is so worth it!

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

  1. Be patient; growth is a process and won't happen all at once!
  2. Advertising on social media is critically important.
  3. Put your whole heart into every single aspect of your business, and you will go far!

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

If you're ever in the Pittsburgh area, we regularly have vendor booths at local pop culture conventions, so make sure to check our socials to see where we'll be and come say hi in person!

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.historiancandleco.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/historiancandleco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/historiancandleco/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/historiancandle
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/historiancandleco/

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.