Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in candle-making but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Erika Strassberg, owner of The Weathered Wick, located in Denver, CO, USA.

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

Calling all candle lovers! That's the beauty of The Weathered Wick - we have something for everyone. With 50 scent options & 19 vessel options, there are endless possibilities for what you can create. We walk you through the process from start to finish, and you leave with a product you not only created but love.

Tell us about yourself

I spent one too many years in corporate America. You always hear "go out on your own" or "start your own business; it's the only way to be truly happy." But most people don't ever take the advice and stay in a 9-5 working for a company that often doesn't value them the way we all hope to be. So, after COVID completely changed my event planning job, I began getting more serious about evaluating what brought me joy and what I would be happy doing for years to come. And that's when I opened a blank word document and drafted a business plan.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

I would have to say taking the leap! A lot of people have dreams and talk about "one day I will do this" and never do. I am very proud of the courage it took and takes every day to take the chance on myself and put in the work to build & live out my dream.

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

For me, the hardest thing is finding a balance with time! You have the ability to set your own schedule as a business owner, which is a major perk for most people when venturing out on their own. But if you're not careful, it can quickly take over a lot, if not all, of your time. (speaking from experience as I write this at 9 PM on a Sunday night, haha)

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

  1. Believe in yourself - you're capable of more than you think you are!
  2. Take the risk - it will pay off!
  3. Do things the right way always, even if it takes a little (or a lot) more money and time.

Where can people find you and your business?

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

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

Feel inspired to start, run or grow your own subscription business? Check out subkit.com and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.