The business, founded by a photographer based in Bakersfield, California, started as a side project in May 2020. Passionate about scented candles, the founder sought aesthetically pleasing and fragrant candles from a Chinese manufacturer. As family and friends showed interest, the idea of setting up an online store emerged. The store officially launched in late June 2020, alongside social media profiles that have since gained traction. Collaborations with influencers, particularly a recent one with a television personality, significantly boosted visibility and sales, with one collaboration yielding $1,100 in just two days.
The business operates largely through word of mouth and influencer partnerships. There is considerable growth potential, and paid advertising and partnerships are expected to further increase sales. Currently, the founder manages all operations, including purchasing, advertising, packaging, and customer communication. Given their skills in photography, they handle product photography for promotional purposes.
Customer satisfaction is a key focus, with follow-up thank-you emails sent post-purchase to foster trust and build lasting relationships. Financially, the business required an initial investment of $1,400, which has been tripled in just three months. The supplier offers flexible pricing based on order volume, and the candles, known for their unique appeal, are sold at a premium. The venture is positioned for a buyer to scale further through strategic marketing and partnerships, with all social media and key contacts to be transferred as part of the sale.