Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in candle-making but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Lilit Pepepyan, Founder of LitwLilit, located in Atlanta, GA, USA.

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

LitwLilit is a candle company that specializes in molded/sculpted candles. Our customer is your everyday American who loves all things smell/feel good. Our candles are hand-poured in small batches, and all scents are hand-crafted with our special blends. Our candles are intended to elevate all of your home decor needs. With a passion for all things art and the experience of running a business, I chose candles because they allowed me creative freedom and were something that I knew many people love from all walks of life. I love molded/sculpted candles because they allow me to decorate as often as I like. Molded candles should be used as a decorative piece, and when you are ready for your next style, instead of having clutter, storage, or guilt of wanting something new so soon, you get to light your candle and freely move on. All of our candles can be used with zero waste; once Lit, your cooled drippings can be placed in a wax melter. Not only do you get to enjoy your entire candle, but no clean-up is necessary.

Tell us about yourself

LitwLilit is a candle company that specializes in molded/sculpted candles. After spending 17 years in corporate America and always feeling like I was waiting for someone to give me the opportunities I wanted, I realized the only way I could accomplish that was if I did it on my own. I started LItwLilit with the desire to be the example that I was pushing for my kids. I knew the best way they can see you can do what you set out to do is by showing them. With a passion for all things art and the experience of running a business, I chose candles because they allowed me creative freedom and were something that I knew many people love from all walks of life. What motivates, first and foremost, are my children. They are the reason why I go hard daily and am willing to do whatever it takes to succeed. I am also motivated by the fact that I get to live daily being unapologetically myself and create works of art by listening to my customers on what they want but always putting the Lilit spin to it. My customers drive me to do better and always think outside the box. I am constantly taking feedback and making my product better.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My biggest accomplishment is making it through year one. I struggled to find my target audience and authentically myself. I moved the way that I thought people wanted to see me move and realized I was not being true to myself, and in turn, my message came out a little forced. I really had to humble myself and understand that I was not at work but running my business, and I didn't have to be afraid of showing up daily as my authentic self. Other than that, I stay grateful and humble for all the opportunities that have come my way. I have managed to get Lit in over 17 stores nationwide, connected with NFL players, built my network within my community, and am so excited about the great places we will go.

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

The hardest thing about being a business owner has to wear so many hats. In the beginning stages, you don't have the luxury of hiring people to do the things you don't like or are good at, and you really have to humble yourself and learn, be patient, and understand that all great things are achieved over time. It also forces you to look at yourself and be honest, and understand that you will not make everyone happy. You can't take everything personally and understand that business is business.

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

  1. Just do it if you keep wondering when, why, and how you will never start.
  2. Start small, perfect your craft, then expand.
  3. Humble yourself and grow your village. It's really like having a baby, and it is hard to do everything on your own. Build your village of people that will guide, motivate and uplift you, and remember it's ok to fail or take a step back; it's how you learn, grow and move forward that really counts.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

I first would like to thank you for taking the time to get to know me and what LitwLIlit is all about. I hope that everyone can take some time and check out the site, come check me out at a pop-up shop to just say hi and take a smell. I hope that LitwLilit can inspire people to believe in themselves and understand that the sky is the limit.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.litwlilitllc.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LitwLilit
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/litwlilit/

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

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