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

Hi Kiara, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
The thought process behind starting my own candle business stemmed from a deep passion for creating unique scents and beautiful ambiance. I’ve always been fascinated by how candles can transform a space and evoke emotions. After honing my skills in candle-making as a hobby, I began to see the potential to turn my passion into a viable business.

The first step was researching the market and identifying gaps where I could offer something distinctive. I conducted surveys and studied consumer preferences to understand trends and demands. Simultaneously, I perfected my candle-making techniques, experimenting with different wax blends, fragrances, and designs to ensure exceptional quality and appeal.

Next, I developed a business plan outlining my goals, target audience, marketing strategies, and financial projections. Securing suppliers for high-quality materials and packaging was crucial to maintaining consistency and professionalism. Establishing an online presence through a website and social media platforms helped me reach a broader audience and build a loyal customer base.

Ultimately, starting my candle business was about combining creativity with a solid business strategy. It’s been incredibly rewarding to see my vision come to life and to share my passion for candles with others who appreciate craftsmanship and ambiance.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
What sets my candle business apart is our unwavering commitment to sustainability and artisan craftsmanship. Unlike many mass-produced candles on the market, each candle we create is handcrafted in small batches using sustainably sourced ingredients and eco-friendly materials.

We prioritize quality over quantity, carefully selecting premium soy wax and natural fragrance oils that are free from harmful chemicals. Our candles not only burn cleaner and longer but also emit rich, luxurious scents that transform any space into a haven of tranquility.

Moreover, we offer a personalized touch that larger companies often lack. Each candle is lovingly poured and meticulously inspected to ensure it meets our high standards of quality. We also collaborate closely with our customers, welcoming their feedback and suggestions to create custom scents and designs that resonate with their preferences.

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 were visiting Washington, DC for a day, here’s what I would plan for a memorable Saturday:

Morning: Museums on the National Mall

We’d start our day with a hearty breakfast at a nice local restaurant around 8:00 AM, known for its delicious dishes. Then, we’d head to the National Mall to visit the Smithsonian National Museum.

Next, we’d move on to the National Museum of African American History and Culture. We’d explore the powerful exhibits that showcase the rich and diverse history and culture of African Americans.

Lunch Break

Around 12:30 PM, we’d enjoy a relaxing lunch.

Early Afternoon: More Museums

After lunch, we’d visit the National Gallery of Art.

Late Afternoon: Nationals Game

By 3:00 PM, we’d head to Nationals Park, either by Metro or a quick Uber ride. We’d catch a 4:00 PM Washington Nationals game, enjoying the excitement of baseball, along with some classic ballpark snacks like hot dogs and pretzels.

Evening: Dinner and Relaxation

After the game, around 7:30 PM, we’d head to a nice restaurant at The Wharf, a vibrant waterfront area. We’d have dinner with a view of the Potomac River, enjoying the lively atmosphere.

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?
My husband!! My husband played a pivotal role in helping me launch my candle business, providing unwavering support and motivation every step of the way. From the outset, he recognized my passion for candles and encouraged me to pursue my dream of turning it into a business venture.

Practically, he assisted with setting up our home workshop, ensuring we had the right equipment and workspace to produce candles efficiently and safely. His background in finance was invaluable as he helped me refine our business plan and financial projections, ensuring we had a solid foundation for growth.

Emotionally, he was my biggest cheerleader, boosting my confidence during moments of doubt and celebrating every small success. His belief in my creativity and determination fueled my drive to create unique candle designs and scents that would resonate with our customers.

Moreover, his practical skills came in handy when it came to handling logistics and managing our online presence. Whether it was photographing products, updating our website, or brainstorming marketing strategies, he was always there with constructive ideas and a can-do attitude.

Above all, his unwavering belief in my ability to succeed in the candle business gave me the courage to push forward, even during challenging times. His support wasn’t just about practical assistance; it was about believing in my vision and actively participating in making it a reality.

In essence, my husband’s involvement in starting our candle business wasn’t just supportive—it was integral to our success. His encouragement, practical assistance, and belief in my abilities were crucial motivators that propelled me forward on this entrepreneurial journey.

Website: https://www.bondandcocandles.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bondandcocandles

Image Credits
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