Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in candle-making and hand-printed textiles but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Laura Olson, Founder of Stumbleweed, located in Detroit, MI, USA.

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

Hi, I'm Laura! I'm the maker and shaker behind Stumbleweed. Stumbleweed is a small online shop full of small-batch handcrafted soy candles, block print art, and hand-printed textiles. This shop focuses on the four seasons, offering new collections with each solstice and seasonal home-grown apothecary items.

In the past three years, Stumblweed has grown a solid base of followers and repeat customers that keep the dream alive and thriving. These folks from all walks of life support my work and encourage my growth. Stumbleweed customers know that no matter what they're purchasing, each item is made by hand with quality ingredients and intention.

Tell us about yourself

In 2019, after spending many years traveling the country, I moved to Michigan to finally set down some roots. Settling down can be awfully lonesome, especially when you haven't 'lived' anywhere in years. That loneliness helped me tap into things from my past that brought me joy. One of those things was watching my mother create her own candles. The roots began to set, and I threw myself into pouring candles and creating memory, invoking scent blends.

Once I started pouring candles, my DIY spirit took over, and I wanted to make things as handmade as possible. I taught myself block printing so I could carve stamps for my candle labels. Now in 2022, my little shop is home to all my passion projects. Hand-poured soy candles, block print art, hand-printed textiles, and seasonal herbal products crafted from my garden. What motivates me to keep doing what I do is pure love. Stumbleweed is my home to heal, grow, and share.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

I think my biggest accomplishment is the beautiful following and customer base that has developed over the last few years. This little community keeps me going; their support keeps me grounded, motivated, and eager to learn and develop new skills.

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

One of the hardest things for me has been not giving in to pressure and staying true to my vision and heart. We live in an instant gratification society, where quantity trumps quality. Stumbleweed is a direct opposition to that, embracing slow magic. Every creation is slow-made; the magic lies in the quality and genuine human connection.

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

Hmmm... this is a tough question! I'm constantly learning and trying new things, which is something I always encourage. Do not stick yourself in a box! Okay, here are 3 tips:

  1. Start slow! You can't jump to the top of the ladder! Each rung you climb has meaning and purpose. Ideas and dreams naturally flood the service when starting a new venture. It's so easy to get swallowed up and become overwhelmed. I suggest taking all of those ideas and picking out one or a few that really speak to your heart, start honing your skills, and seeing if it works for you! If not, no biggie; there are plenty of ideas; get back to the drawing board!
  2. Growing a lil business is so rewarding, and other times you may feel like a ghost screaming into the void. You're not alone! There's a bunch of us void-dwellers, and we've got your back! Growing a community around your business is like support beams in a house. They're pretty important to the whole operation. Your community will be your cheerleaders on your best and worst days; they make it real hard to throw in the towel. How do you grow a community? It's easy; show up and show support, and it all comes back around! Whether following and engaging with your favorite businesses, artists, makers, etc., on social media or getting out there in public and showing folks how much you love what you do, all the rungs add up, and pretty soon, you've got a cozy, sturdy ladder.
  3. Everyone feels 'imposter syndrome.' Literally. Everyone. Those feelings are normal! Just keep yourself in check and don't forget why you love to do what you do, and remember there is room for everybody, including you.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.purestumbleweed.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stumbleweedcandles
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_stumbleweed_/

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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