"Outdoorsy" and "Woodsy"

Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in candle-making but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Liz Long, Founder of Woodsy Wicks, located in La Grande, OR, USA.

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

Woodsy Wicks is a candle business focused on bringing amazing non-toxic products to homes trying to move away from toxic fragrances that are all over the candle market today. My customers are an amazing community of people who want great-smelling products without filling their homes with toxins.

Tell us about yourself

I have always loved being crafty ever since I was little. I got into candle making specifically to make a huckleberry candle because I fell in love with it and decided I wanted to start a "side business," after working hard for a few years, my business grew, and now I am lucky enough to work on my business full time.

The motivation to keep working hard and make my business my full-time job is the fact that I am able to do much more with my kids than I would if I had a traditional 9-5 job. I definitely have days where I work long hours, but at the same time, I am able to CHOOSE my hours, and if I need to take time off to spend time with my kids, I am able to do that, and I am so grateful to have that option and flexibility.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My biggest accomplishment as a business owner has been building a really strong local community of loyal customers who I absolutely love and who are always so supportive.

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

One of the hardest parts is the inconsistency of it all. There will be busy seasons where you work 12+ hours a day just trying to keep up, and then there are days where I don't get a single order. It is a roller coaster, but I have learned over the years that it's just the way it goes with business!

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

The number 1 is definitely that you have to find something that you LOVE doing, or it will be hard to stay motivated during the inevitable hard times.
Be your genuine self, show up on social media, and let people know there's a real person behind your business. People love connecting with and supporting a small business, especially when they know they really are making a difference in someone's life and helping their dreams come true.
Just start! I know it's scary, and a lot of people think they need to have everything perfected and feel 100% ready, but I don't think that is realistic, you just have to get started, and you'll figure it out as you go. I have found that's the best way to learn, just diving in!

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://woodsywicks.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Woodsywicks/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/woodsywicks/

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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