Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in candle-making but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Skyler Lombardozzi, founder of Burnt at Both Ends, located in Indianapolis, IN, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Burnt at Both Ends is a candle business with a primary focus on accessible sustainability and practical, spiritual celebration of the earth. Our aroma therapeutic, phthalate-free, vegan, hand-poured coconut soy wax candles are intended to support growth in areas of spiritual, mental, and physical health. Some of our proceeds are donated to rotating charities each year. Individuals who seem to always be "burning the candle at both ends," looking for easy ways to care for themselves and the environment, are a great fit for our candles.
Tell us about yourself
I began making candles as a coping mechanism early in the pandemic. I was feeling distant from the things I valued and unable to support a lifestyle that was both manageable and meaningful. It felt important to begin creating something for my family and friends that would be beneficial for our health and for our planet's health. Later, Burnt at Both Ends grew out of a desire to share easy sustainability and self-care with others.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment is entering a community that cares about something larger than commerce. It took a while to find them at vendor markets and online-and, but I have made connections with people who truly remind me that I am not striving to meet these goals in a vacuum. It is important to have others that support and share your ideas.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
One of the hardest things, personally, is re-evaluating the costs of services to consumers during periods of growth. It's important that services and products are accessible, but it's also important that you are being adequately compensated for your hard work. It is a difficult balance that should be re-evaluated frequently, and I'm still working on that.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Pick something you are passionate about, not something that seems profitable off the bat, or you will likely burn out.
- Be undyingly loyal to your values; eventually, the people who value what you do will find you.
- Find a support system, like-minded people who are willing to hear your ideas and offer constructive criticism and praise, both privately and in public.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
I am always looking to make new connections and talk more about ways to celebrate our environment if that sounds like you, feel free to reach out!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: http://burntatbothends.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BurntatBothEndsCandles/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/burntatbothendscandles/
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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