Meet Janelle Escandon: Candle Maker | Creator

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

Hi Janelle, what role has risk played in your life or career?
To me taking risks has played such a huge factor in my life. If you don’t take risk how are you going to get results? As some say, “You got to risk it to get the biscuit”, I couldn’t agree more. A few years back I felt stuck, and desperately wanted a change. I then took a big leap out of faith and put all fears aside and moved from big busy city, Los Angeles, California, to a small city I have never heard of named, Lubbock, in Texas. I had encountered a roller coaster of events on my journey, trying to find an established home of our own was a big yoyo for us. My little family and myself, we moved back and fourth, from California to Texas a handful of times. From family memebers houses to friends houses. Each time we moved, we took big risks doing so. I left my family and friends behind to start a new journey in life. I did what none of my family has done, which was move out of state and be away from our big loving family. The biggest risks I can say I have taken, so far, would be starting my candle making journey and becoming a business woman. My boyfriend just said to me one day, “I am going to invest in your company.” That is the moment it all took off for me. I ordered all I need to and we made a make do work station and office. We invested in something I am passionate about and most of all, we invested in our future. I’ve gained so much knowledge and still continue to learn as I grow into this business life. In taking risks, I not only showed myself I can accomplish anything I set my mind to, but my 6 year old son, and my nieces and nephews also see what I am accomplishing. Them little kiddos being proud of me makes me proud of myself for getting this far. If I didn’t take these risks, I know I would still be stuck in the, “Could’ve and Should’ve” situation, or just probably wasting time wishing I would’ve. Life is all about taking risk. You’re never going to achieve your goals if you don’t just go for it! That is something I hope may son takes in from all this. 

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am a mother by day, and a candle maker by night. Part time sales associate in between. So after having many failed department store candles fill my house with burning wax, and a container filled with a sad tunneling fire, I knew I wanted to do the opposite of what that candle was doing. I wanted to be able to provide products that are affordable, great quality, and well hand crafted. I make all candles and wax melts in small batches to ensure the quality of the product my people are getting. I know by experience how frustrating it can be as a consumer to make a purchase and thinking what a waste of money spent. That is why I do my best to provide top notch products and excellent customer service. What I am most proud of, is being able to to do what I love from the enjoyment of my home and still having the chance to be an active parent. It wasn’t easy to get to where I am today, and I still have daily struggles I go through. A lesson I have learned is that all feedback is good feedback, whether it’s good or bad. The only way to correct a problem is by knowing what you are doing wrong and knowing what you can improve on. Some other lessons I have learned along the way are, do not be afraid, just go for it. You have nothing to lose, only experience to gain in doing so. Research, research, and more research, along with plenty of testing! Joining a related group that has experienced artisans, that are willing to give feedback on your craft will help along the way as well. I had the pleasure of getting help and educational feedback in these groups. Lastly, the whole legal side part of a business is not fun, it’s not for the weak (lol), and it is definitely not as easy as it seems, but it is very rewarding in the end. I’m from Los Angeles, California, but currently established in Texas. I face challenges with depression and anxiety, and making candles is therapeutic for me. When in the process of making my head feels clear and focused, and I delve into a world of my own. My brand has different, special meanings, but it can differ to anyone. I’m all about good vibes and out of this world feels. My brand is for the misfits and travelers who can take themselves back to a moment of memories with one smell. It is known that the sense of smell is linked with memories. My brand also represents my love and fondness of outer space and with the outer beings. I have always felt socially awkward amongst others, and having my own brand makes me like I can truly express my inner being and share to those who can relate. Far From Home, is for the misfits, and the wanderers.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
My ultimate go to place to take friends is Venice Beach. There is so much culture, artist, and free open minded spirits. Hiking, at Chantry Flats or at the Observatory and Hollywood sign can be challenging, yet so serene. It’s easy to lose track of time when on a good hike. The views are breathe taking and worth the work out. After building up an appetite, I like to go eat at a little spot in Boyle Heights, called Al & Bea’s. My family and I have been eating there for over two decades. Barney’s Beanery, in Pasadena, is a great go to for drinks and dancing the night away. It’s a spot that has a great lively atmosphere, good drinks, and a fun downstairs area with a bar. That’s where the dancing and party lights happen. After some dancing, King Taco is another must go to eatery. The tacos are to die for! Hollywood, is another area where I like to take my friends. From the famous stars on the sidewalk, to the shopping, and the rockin’ shows. Los Angeles is full of amazing places to go to, and perfect for fun filled days. There is always an adventure to have, and so many places to be explored.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First, I have to shoutout my girl, Ashley Duran, for being a big supporter and believing in my story/ business. She mentioned my name to you guys, which is huge to me, this is my first opportunity to tell my story and get out into the world of entrepreneurship. My number one supporters that I have to mention are, my son Jayden Taylor, and my boyfriend, my investor, Pablo Lucio Jr. Those guys push me to keep going even when I have artists block or artists blues. I got a start by watching Cory O’Briant and Jeff Standley’s informative videos. My mom and grandma, they used to tell me I should do something that I love, that included using my hands. My grandma used to make candles years ago as a fun hobby with her neighbor, and so she brought it up as something I should start getting into and creating. My four sisters also play a big role in my big supporters because when I first started they were the ones buying my product and sharing to their friends, spreading the word, and that made me feel loved and it uplifted me to keep up the hard work. Thank you to everyone else who has supported me on this fresh journey of mine.

Website: https://farfromhomeco.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/farfromhomellc/
Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/FarFromHomeLLC/