Turning Hobbies into Income: Starting a Candle and Soap Business with No Experience

Hello, fellow entrepreneurs!

As I embark on my journey to transform a beloved hobby into a full-fledged business, I find myself at a crossroads, and I could really use some wisdom from those with experience. Recently, I was laid off from my job, which has led me to consider leveraging my passion for crafting luxurious candles and artisanal soaps. Over the years, I have enjoyed gifting friends and family beautiful baskets filled with my creations, and their encouraging feedback has sparked the idea of pursuing this venture professionally.

I’ve conducted some initial research into sourcing materials and discovered that platforms like Amazon and Alibaba International offer competitive prices for bulk purchases, which could be promising for my startup costs. However, I am faced with a significant hurdle: I lack the fundamental knowledge of running a business. While there are countless resources available online, I would truly appreciate insights from experienced small business owners regarding the three most crucial aspects I should be prepared for in this new endeavor.

Additionally, I am contemplating the idea of entering a partnership. A friend of mine has expressed interest in collaborating, and while her marketing acumen could complement my skills, I am hesitant. Mixing friendship with business can often lead to complicated dynamics. On top of that, my husband has expressed doubts about the feasibility of this venture before I even begin, which has left me questioning my decision.

I recognize this moment as an opportunity to embrace my aspirations now that I’m seeking new employment. Are there others out there who started businesses without any previous hands-on knowledge? I am eager for sincere and constructive advice on how to take the leap from hobbyist to entrepreneur.

Thank you! Your insights could be the key to unlocking my potential in this new chapter!