Turning a Passion for Candle Making into a Business: Seeking Advice from Fellow Entrepreneurs
Hello, everyone!
I’m excited to share that I’m considering launching a high-end candle and soap business. Recently, I faced a career transition after losing my job, and I’ve been nurturing my passion for candle and soap making as a beloved hobby. After gifting beautifully curated baskets filled with my handmade creations to friends and family, I received overwhelming encouragement to take the leap into entrepreneurship.
In my preliminary research, I discovered competitive pricing for raw materials through B2B marketplaces like Amazon and Alibaba International, which enhances my confidence in the financial aspect of starting this venture. However, there’s a significant hurdle that I’m grappling with: my lack of business acumen. I know there are abundant resources online—courses, articles, and videos—but I’m eager to gain insights from seasoned small business owners instead.
If anyone has experience navigating this journey, I’d love to hear your thoughts on the three most important aspects I should be aware of before diving in. Additionally, I’m contemplating whether to partner with a friend who’s expressed interest in joining me on this venture. While her marketing knowledge could complement my strengths in crafting, I’m cautious about mixing friendship with business, given the potential complications.
On a personal note, my husband has reservations about this idea, suggesting it might not be viable before I even begin. I see this as a golden opportunity to pursue my dreams after leaving the workforce, and I’m committed to making it work.
Are there others among you who have successfully transformed a hobby into a flourishing business despite having little prior experience? I would greatly appreciate any honest perspectives or advice you could share!
Thank you for taking the time to read my post, and I look forward to your responses!
One Comment
Hi there! First of all, congratulations on taking such a brave step toward turning your passion into a business — that’s truly inspiring. Your enthusiasm for candle and soap making, combined with the support from friends and family, sets a strong foundation to build upon.
One key aspect to consider is leveraging online resources to develop your business acumen. Platforms like SCORE, local small business development centers, or even free webinars can provide practical guidance on essentials like branding, pricing strategies, customer targeting, and financial planning—all crucial for a successful launch.
Regarding partnerships, I understand the concern about mixing friendship with business—it’s a common challenge. To mitigate potential conflicts, you might consider establishing clear roles, responsibilities, and agreements from the outset. This can help preserve your personal relationship while ensuring a professional foundation for your venture.
Finally, don’t underestimate the value of small steps. Start with a minimum viable product (MVP), gather customer feedback, and iterate. Many successful entrepreneurs began with limited technical skills, learning as they progressed. Your passion and commitment are your biggest assets—combine that with strategic learning, and you’ll be well on your way. Wishing you the best of luck on this exciting journey!