Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in candle-making but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Jake Jordt, Owner of Torched Candle Co., located in Fruitvale, BC, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
My products are all about comfort. I wanted to make a candle that you can light and not be overwhelmed with the scent. As I know that that can be an irritant to some. In addition, everything I make from scratch is cruelty-free and 100% vegan. Since I use natural products in my candles, it makes them a great option for those with respiratory issues; there will be fewer chemicals emitting into the air.
Tell us about yourself
When I was a young boy, maybe around 8, I wanted to have my own business of some sort. I remember playing business simulator games with my cousin at my grandparent's house as a kid. So it has always been a dream of mine to operate a business, but you may ask why candles? Well, back in 2020, I returned from University due to COVID -19 shutting everything down. I had no job lined, and it would not have been a stable income if I did. It got to a point where I was barely paying the bills, so I thought, why not start a business. There is no better time to start now because I had nothing to lose. I got to brainstorming, and after many ideas, I settled on making candles! Every day I make candles is every day that the 8-year-old kid inside me screaming for joy that dreams do come true to those who work.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment as a business owner is having over 9 retail locations where my products are being sold. This may seem like a small number, but every one of those stores holds a special spot in my heart.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Time management is by far the hardest thing in owning a business. Especially since I live in a rural area, I can not get out and buy supplies; I have to get them all shipped to me. This can cause issues with launches and events or classes I put on. I stay on top of it by always planning 6-12 months ahead of time.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Choose something that you'll know you'll have fun with.
- Be CONFIDENT; if you are a pushover, you will get nowhere. Be confident in your product, yourself, and what your company stands for.
- Dedicate time for yourself. There will be days that you work 12+ hours for your business, and that's on from time to time. But you always have to remember that your mental health should come first.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Starting a business is the most fun and exhilarating thing ever but also the most stressful and toughest thing ever.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: http://www.torchedcandleco.ca/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/torchedcandleco/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/torched_candle_co/
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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