Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in candle-making but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Marisa Bello, Owner of Solstice Naturals, located in Gainesville, GA, USA.

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

I'm the owner and candle maker at Solstice Naturals. I handcraft beeswax aromatherapy candles with therapeutic-grade essential oils that smell amazing and improve air quality. We encourage candle lovers to make the switch from toxic paraffin or soy candles scented with chemical fragrances. Our customers are holistic-minded, conscious of their toxin exposure, and appreciate the subtle, more natural scent of our candles.

Tell us about yourself

Over a decade ago, I went down the rabbit hole of pesticide use, chemicals in our food and household cleaners, and everyday toxin exposure, and I never looked back. I owned an herbal skincare line for many years, and working with essential oils has always been a joy of mine, so it felt like a natural evolution to make candles with them. I

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Hands down, it's been successfully running my business from home while also raising two little humans! Time management is ever-changing and evolving, but ultimately I'm so proud that I can support my family while also spending time with them.

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

Wearing all the hats and taking on full responsibility in every aspect of the business. It can be deeply rewarding when you stay organized and plan ahead; otherwise, it can feel chaotic.

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

  1. Define your niche and get really clear on your brand, product line, and customer base. Knowing who your ideal customer is and why they love your brand keeps you focused, connected, and relevant.
  2. Keep going! It's natural to encounter challenges and obstacles, and often when this happens, doubt and fear try to creep up and set in, but don't let them! Connect to your purpose and intuition and trust that you're on the path of growth and success.
  3. Stay on top of your accounting, especially as a small business. I am not a numbers person by any means, and I've had to learn the basics from scratch to ensure that my profit margins make sense to account for overhead, time, and materials. Follow every dollar!

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.solsticenaturals.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/solsticenaturals
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solsticenaturals/

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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