Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in candle-making but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with MaKayla Shorts, founder of Simply Pleasing Candle Co., located in Las Vegas, NV, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Simply Pleasing Candles bring a special scent to trigger special memories in your life. The perfect gift to give a loved one. An escape away, just for a little bit, into your own sense of calmness and relaxation. A feeling of cleanness after a long day of cleaning your home, just the finish touch that's needed. We provide every atmosphere with the right mood and scent for the right event or mental state. Our candles are made to fill your home and your heart. Candles for m helped me grieve through a very hard time in life, and I hope to bring that to others around the world!
Tell us about yourself
I started working on this business all from a DREAM! I had a dream where I had my very own candles sitting in a store. And, of course, I just thought it was just be having too much sugar the night before. But I told my dad about the dream, and he told me I should “go for it” and start. And start making my own. Not knowing that would be our last conversation. Unfortunately, my dad, who is my stepfather, but raised me as his own, passed of a heart attack that next morning.
Because of that, I had to distract myself, or I would find myself lying in bed in the dark with no life or spark to me. And that’s just not me. So to cope, I decide to try it out. That very reason is why I strive so hard in my business. I feel like I owe it to him to make this successful and truly pick up and help our family and community as he did. He always helped others before helping himself. And I want to take on that role. Not only for my family but to bring other families those special moments, special memories, and a good state of mind with our candles. A candle can truly set the tone and mind!
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment was being able to open our store just being in business for four months. I have put everything into the business, which is completely self-funded. And I couldn’t be more proud.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
The hardest thing for me has been trying to manage everything. It is not an easy job. I cannot wait till we are big enough to give our community job opportunities not only to help me but also to give our younger generation opportunities in roles they wouldn’t get till after graduating. Giving them the experience they need when they graduate.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Do not give up. Some days it gets overwhelming and difficult, but do not give up. Keep going, and the end result will be worth it.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
I appreciate my community for believing in me and supporting me to get our business here. And we are working hard to make it bigger and do more for our community.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.simplypleasingcandles.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SimplyPleasingCandles/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simplypleasingcandles/
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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