Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in candle-making but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Ela Onisto, founder of Wick'ed Candle & Co., located in Alliston, ON, Canada.

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

Wick'ed Candle & Co. was founded in 2021 and carries different styles of candles and home decor to suit everyone's taste. Whether you're into the farmhouse or country decor, vintage amber jar collection with masculine scents, or a more luxurious, essential oil blend, there is a scent for everyone. Our main objective is to create artisan products with quality ingredients that produce a nostalgic feeling and, in the process, do not harm the environment. We use organic coconut soy wax in our candles with a much cleaner, sustainable, and eco-friendly burn that doesn't contribute to deforestation like other wax products.

When over 90% of the soy grown is genetically modified, we focus on natural, pure organic coconut soy wax, a renewable, high yield crop. That means you support a sustainable product instead of one full of carcinogens. Coconut Soy Wax is made with coconuts and organic soy. We at Wicked Candle & Co. spare no costs to ensure that our candles are made from the most natural, renewable source that does not impact our environment and our health!

Our customers value products that are organic, vegan, cruelty-free, and sustainable. Besides enjoying their favorite scents, they like to feel good about the products they use. All products are inspired by nature and crafted with care.

Tell us about yourself

My journey of becoming a chandler begin as a hobby. I fell ill and was not able to return to work. This drastic change in my life took a toll on me mentally and emotionally. I had a really hard time coming to terms with the situation. Someone suggested that I find a hobby that will keep me occupied at my own pace. Nothing came to mind until I went shopping for candles. As I was placing them in my cart, I had a lightbulb moment. Making my own candles, doing tons of research, deciding what goes in them, and being mindful of the environment. The entire process of being creative, designing the website from scratch, and being able to wake up the dormant artsy side, and utilize it through the entire process, proved to be extremely healthy. However, it's the customers that really made a change in my well-being.

My motivation comes from my customers, especially those who personally reach out to provide their feedback. No matter how many orders come through, each order makes me beam with the biggest smile. It is so rewarding to make something that people love. It still feels surreal.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My customers are my biggest accomplishment. Without them, their love for my products, and their supporting my small business, I wouldn't be where I am.

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

One of the hardest things about being a business owner is dealing with the unknown.

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

Don't be afraid to pivot, and pivot fast! If you're not scared and embarrassed throughout the entire process of a start-up, you're doing something wrong. And the most important tip, listen to your customers, don't be afraid to ask for feedback, and never take it personally. Your customer's needs are what will ultimately help grow your business.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

If you are thinking about starting a business, go for it! There is no time like the present. There are plenty of groups on social media platforms with individuals at every level that share their experiences and are always willing to help.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.wickedcandleco.ca/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WickedCandleCo.ca
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wickedcandleco.ca/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wickedcandleco/

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.