Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in candle-making but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Kyle Chalifoux, owner, and CEO of Kx Candles, located in Edmonton, AB, Canada.

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

I began my candle-making adventure in September of 2020 out of my apartment. I started on Etsy with just a handful of candles, and now I am pleased to have more than 30 different scents available and have produced more than 2000 Candles!

My candles are 100% handmade and crafted in mason jars and cement vessels using wood wicks. Each candle is hand-poured one by one and is melted and mixed in small batches to ensure quality & consistency. These candles are made with 100% soy wax that is plant-based, non-GMO, vegan & cruelty-free. Soy wax candles are known for their much cleaner and longer burn compared to traditional paraffin wax.

My customers are all amazing local supporters who come to craft fairs and local markets within the YEG and surrounding area to support the community.

Tell us about yourself

I first started my candle-making adventure as a project to keep me busy during the covid lockdowns; however, I enjoyed it so much I continued producing and experimenting with candles and scents and began posting them online, which is how Kx Candles grew to what it is today.

Each and every day, I look forward to working on new scents, candle vessels, wax melts, and more, and the support I have received since beginning this venture keeps me motivated.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

I would say that my biggest accomplishment thus far has been the success of my in-person markets. I always receive so much support from the community and, on occasion, have actually sold out of product at the events. It is so rewarding to see returning customers and new ones come out to support your business time and time again.

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

One of the biggest challenges I continue to face is the overall cost of operating a business. Between the supplies (wax, fragrance oil, vessels, retail bags, etc.), shipping expenses, website fees, marketing, and POS fees, it can be challenging to keep your product prices low while still attempting to make a profit. I find that keeping a very detailed ledger and tracking every single expense helps to keep on top of things.

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

  1. Make sure your product is of good quality. If you are just trying to make a quick buck by selling a bad product/service, you will rack in bad reviews and unhappy customers very quickly. Do your research and make sure you do things right.
  2. Network! Social connections are such a huge part of the business. Knowing where the best retail opportunities are, getting marketing tips, and having people recommend your products to others are just a few examples of how networking will benefit your business.
  3. Make sure you value your time. A lot of people will undervalue the time it takes to make local handmade products and market them. Make sure you take your time into account when setting your product prices.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.etsy.com/ca/shop/KxCandles
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kxcandles
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kxcandles_/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/KxCandles

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.