Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in candle-making but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Alexandria White, Founder of ScentSoftly Candle Co., located in Cleveland Heights, OH, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Hi! ScentSoftly Candle Co is an all-natural candle supply company offering a unique and poetic twist to the candle gifting experience. We offer all-natural soy candles, luxury ceramics, and soy melts. We also specialize in unique and creative custom candles. Our customers range in age from 18 to 40 with mixed gender profiles. We offer something for everyone. Our customers know our candles for having amazing scents, dynamic colors, and titillating poetry. ScentSoftly Candle Co is where creativity and writing meet.
Tell us about yourself
I started this business in June 2020 as a way to be creative and also to satisfy my desire to own a business. I've always wanted to own a creative business and do something I love. My two greatest loves are crafts and writing. I've been writing since I was 5, and my poetry has been shared in online publications as well as local slams and events. This business allows me to create a steady schedule of organization and discipline while also filling my need to be creative and share it with the world around me. My motivation for doing this will always be my art. As long as I can bring my ideas to fruition, that is truly all that matters to me. This is a lesson I've had to learn during the business process because capitalism can suck the love and joy from your art so quickly, but when you are doing it to fulfill your own needs, you end up not only helping those around you but inspiring yourself as well. When I make a new candle, I feel inspired and fulfilled. I hope I can offer even a fraction of that to someone else. All in all, this business is much more than candles for me; it's my self-care and therapy.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment as a business owner has definitely been creating a sense of discipline for mental, emotional, and physical well-being. The amount of peace and growth this business has given me is priceless to me. I've learned so much about business, and I've been able to try so many new things I'm not only unfamiliar with but afraid of. Conquering my fears and doing what I previously thought was impossible for me could never be topped by any amount of money I make or accolades I receive.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
For me, the hardest thing for me is marketing and making video content. I am INFJ, so I am very introverted and have a hard time trying new things. My anxiety has gotten the better of me in the past, but overcoming my fears, even if it takes a few tries, helps me show up for myself even if I'm not perfect. It's always going to be my scariest challenge, but I am always going to rise to it.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Make sure you don't let making money and recognition steal the joy in what you are doing. Understand not all hobbies need to be a business, and you can share your creativity without capitalism having its share. If you choose to, know your why and remind yourself of it often.
- When you notice fear, acknowledge it, but don't let it steal you away. Try new things, and don't be afraid to be bad at something. Show your mistakes the same way you show your wins. Find ways to learn from yourself and others.
- NEVER EVER COMPARE YOURSELF TO OTHERS. Allow others to inspire you, but go at your own pace and do your own thing. Every market is saturated, but you have a place too. Find yours, and don't worry if it doesn't look like what's out there.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.scentsoftlycandleco.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ScentSoftly
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scentsoftlycandles/
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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