Meet Holly Singer | Founder and CEO of Milk Jar Candle Company Inc.

We had the good fortune of connecting with Holly Singer and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Holly, what is the most important factor behind your success?
Milk Jar Candle Company’s business model extends beyond mere commerce; it embodies a commitment to inclusivity and social responsibility. As we evolved, our dedication to fostering an inclusive workplace culture became paramount, leading to the introduction of inclusive employment practices in our third year when we expanded our staff beyond three employees.

At Milk Jar, we believe in providing opportunities for individuals of all abilities. Our inclusive hiring practices ensure that our workforce comprises individuals with and without intellectual and physical disabilities. We have established a goal of maintaining a ratio of 1/3 to no less than 1/4 of our workforce consisting of individuals with disabilities. Through this approach, we have discovered that we can offer meaningful opportunities while effectively supporting both our business and our employees.

This commitment to inclusivity is woven into the fabric of our company culture. We strive to create an environment where every team member feels valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their unique talents and perspectives. By fostering diversity and embracing the strengths of each individual, we not only enrich our workplace but also enhance our ability to innovate and serve our customers effectively.

In addition to our inclusive employment practices, Milk Jar Candle Company remains dedicated to community engagement and education. Our candle-making workshops not only provide hands-on learning experiences but also serve as platforms for promoting diversity and acceptance. The introduction of the Drag Show and Beeswax Making Class exemplifies our commitment to celebrating and embracing all forms of diversity within our community.

Furthermore, our custom candle department reflects our inclusive approach to partnerships and collaboration. We work with organizations of all sizes and backgrounds, offering tailored solutions to meet their specific needs and objectives. By embracing diversity in our partnerships, we not only strengthen our business but also contribute to the social and economic vibrancy of our community.

Throughout our journey, Milk Jar Candle Company has remained steadfast in our commitment to inclusivity, both as an employer and as a member of the wider community. By fostering a workplace culture that celebrates diversity and empowers individuals of all abilities, we strive to set an example for other businesses and contribute to a more inclusive and equitable society. As we continue to grow and evolve, our dedication to inclusivity will remain at the heart of everything we do.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Well I have no business degree or any experience in starting or running a business, let alone managing people and a team of 20 employees (Which Milk Jar employs right now).

I started working at quite a young age, 14, at McDonalds and I would say it was one of the best and most impactful jobs the developed me working with others at such an awkward age. It brought me out of my shell and into a fast paced environment where you constantly had to multitask and problem solve. It helped me talk to strangers and make friends with co-workers when I was such a shy teen. It was uncomfortable to start, but it is in doing uncomfortable things that we grow, and putting myself into that responsibility at a young age began to develop my ability to do ‘hard things’. I moved into various jobs in retail, waitressing, and supporting children with disabilities, all roles that continued to develop my interpersonal skills, care for customers and clients, and ability to think quick and make decisions. Issues arise with customers or in jobs all the time, but it’s how you problem solve or make things right that truly determine your success, it is not everything going right and smooth all the time.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend was visiting Calgary I would take them to a 45 minute drive outside the city to Canmore in the Rocky Mountains. We would start having a delicious bagel breakfast at Rocky Mountain Bagel Co. and then do a light hike to Grassi Lakes to see the most beautiful blue water that the Rockys are known for. We’d then go into the town of Canmore and shop at the best gift store called Steeling Home where you can find records, blankets, home goods and crystals from unique small businesses from around Canada and the world. We’d then head back towards Calgary and have some health and wellness at the Knordic Spa by dipping in their hot and cold pools and saunas. We’d drive back to Calgary for dinner and eat at my favourite French Restaurant called Cassis Bistro where they have the most delicious Mussels and Frites and play vintage black and white films projected on the wall.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would like to recognize my parents for supporting my very challenging decision of quitting Nursing school to pursue entrepreneurship. As an academic and someone who I thought quitting school was not what people were supposed to do (and as something my parents really encourgaed as important), it was a very hard decision. I called them up in tears saying I was passionate about pursuing a business instead but would have to stop school in order to give it my full attention. They lovingly told me to follow my passion and gave me their full support. I can’t thank them enough for trusting me in trusting myself.

Website: https://milkjar.ca

Instagram: @milkjarcandleco