Today we’d like to introduce you to Emily Ashley
Hi Emily, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I started making candles as a hobby around 2014, I made what I wanted to see and smell in my home and being someone who has always been very crafty, it came fairly natural to me. I started my business during covid in 2021, when I was out of work and needed to stay busy, I have loved how creative starting a business has allowed me to be, not only was I able to make my own candle vessels from concrete, (as candle vessels were scarce during this time.) I was also able to build my own website and blend my own, unique fragrances. Along the way I have met so many other small business owners at various shows who have shared their experiences with me and given me necessary criticisms as to what I was doing wrong and how to be better, all of their advice has helped me to grow and I am grateful to be coming up on 3 years in business.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
There have been many learning curves, and I have made a ton of mistakes. I have learned not to give away all of my secrets to creating certain products, to listen better to the customer and what they want. I’m still learning all the time, especially about social media such as Tik Tok, hopefully one day ill master that one.
As you know, we’re big fans of Emily Ashley Candle Co,. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
First off that we are a Christian owned and operated business, some other things would be that I strive not only to produce non toxic products but also to keep my materials within the USA. I also only use crackling, wooden wicks so that when you burn my candles, not only will it smell amazing due to my unique fragrances, it will be an experience.
For now I am a one-woman operation, so all the products, shipping, customer service and everything else is all me.
Since I’ve been in business I have attended many craft shows and operated via an online base, however I’m proud to announce that I will have my own storefront in Anahuac, TX coming in 2025! I will post updates on my website along with what shows and events I will be attending.
We’d love to hear about how you think about risk taking?
Any time you start a business, there is risk of failure and no one wants that, but you don’t know until you go for it, it helps greatly if you have a supportive family, friends and especially a supportive spouse as I do.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://emilyashleycandleco.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emilyashleycandleco/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EmilyAshleyCandleCo/
