Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in candle-making but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Suraiya Nanji, founder of Homecoming Candles, located in Vancouver, BC, Canada.

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

We’re Homecoming Candles, a female-founded, family-run candle company based in Vancouver, B.C. We make what we like to call “elevated essentials for homebodies,” with a focus on hand-poured soy wax candles that smell like our favorite things in the world warm breezes, dreamy forests, herbs, botanicals, and even cups of tea!

Our candle line is intended for anyone that appreciates great scents and elevated design and is also concerned about the quality of goods they bring in their home. That’s why our candles are 100% vegan, cruelty-free, and free of petroleum and preservatives.

Tell us about yourself

Homecoming started as a passion project while I was still working in the fashion industry in Los Angeles. I went all-in when I moved back to Vancouver (hence the name) and slowly began growing the brand by doing markets and working with local stores. Since then, I’ve gone from working out of my apartment to growing a small team operating out of our own studio and working with over 100 stores across North America.

I love that I get to make a product that allows people to define their space and make their space feel like a home. What motivates me most now is the possibility – being able to bring new ideas to life is truly one of the best parts of owning your own business.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My biggest accomplishment so far is that I’ve been able to grow Homecoming into a full-time job and still enjoy doing it. It’s tempting to chase trends or get caught up in what other brands are doing, but at the end of the day, you’re the one running your business – if you don’t enjoy the world you created for yourself, there’s really no point in being an entrepreneur. I started pouring candles ten years ago, and I can’t wait for ten more.

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

Being your own boss means splitting your attention. While that in itself can be a challenge, what is most difficult is staying inspired. Some days you’ll find yourself deep in a pile of receipts, and it’s difficult to switch from that mode to a place of vision and creativity. Make time to be creative and experiment, even if it doesn’t feel “productive” to do so.

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

  1. Do as many markets or in-person events as possible early on in your business. These are great for meeting people and understanding what people like about your business.
  2. Look for inspiration, but don’t compare yourself to others.
  3. Work at your own pace – yes, there are a million things you “could” or “should” do to help your business succeed, but… we’re only human. Working slowly will get you there faster than burning out.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.homecomingcandles.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shophomecoming/

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.