From an Idea to a Launch: How My Candle Business Came to Life

From Shifts to Scents: How I Started My Candle Business While Working Full-Time

Starting a small business isn’t easy—especially when you’re juggling a full-time nursing job, picking up per diem shifts, and commuting over two hours a day. But for me, my candle business began in the quiet moments between shifts, in the warmth of my home, inspired by my love for comforting scents and cozy spaces.

I started making candles as a hobby, something small I could do for myself to decompress after long, emotionally draining days at the hospital. Nursing is an incredibly rewarding career, but it can also be mentally exhausting. Over time, I realized I was heading toward burnout. Pouring candles became my form of therapy—a peaceful, creative escape where I could slow down, be present, and breathe.

I’ve always been passionate about creating peaceful environments. Growing up, my mom made sure our home always smelled amazing—clean, inviting, and calming. She taught me early on that a beautifully scented home isn’t just about fragrance; it’s about creating a vibe that makes you feel put together, even on the most chaotic days.

That memory stuck with me. So, I started crafting hand-poured candles just for myself, using natural soy wax and ingredients I felt good about. Eventually, I began gifting them to family and friends. The response? Pure love. People were obsessed with how good they smelled and how much peace they brought into their homes. That’s when a small thought turned into a big dream: What if I actually started a candle business?

From Passion Project to Candle Brand

Let’s be real—when I started this journey, I had zero experience in running a business. I didn’t know how to start an online store, price my products, or even market them. I just knew I wanted to create affordable, high-quality candles that helped others feel what I felt: calm, comforted, and at home.

Starting my candle brand has been a wild ride. I’ve been exhausted, overwhelmed, and sometimes completely lost. But I’ve also been inspired, fulfilled, and constantly reminded of my why. I’m learning as I go—how to balance work and business, how to grow my online candle shop, and how to keep believing in myself through every challenge.

And I didn’t do it alone. Shout out to my mom, Kevin, and Bobby for being my biggest cheerleaders. Whether it was late-night pep talks, label designing, or just reminding me I could do this—you’ve all been everything.

Why Candles? Why Now?

Candles have always been more than décor to me. They’re self-care. They’re an act of love—for yourself, your space, your peace of mind. That’s what I hope every customer feels when they light one of mine.

Each small batch I create is hand-poured with intention, using fragrance oils that contain zero phthalate, reproductive toxins and common carcinogens. Because I believe that what you breathe in matters. My goal is to create candles that not only smell amazing but are also safe for your home, your family, and your peace of mind.

Whether it’s a fresh linen scent or warm vanilla amber, I want every candle to tell a story and help set the mood for whatever kind of day you’re having.

What’s Next?

This is just the beginning. I’ll be sharing more behind-the-scenes stories on building this candle business from scratch—what tools I’m using, how I’m growing my brand online, lessons I’ve learned the hard way, and tips for other women who are dreaming about starting their own businesses, too.

If you’ve ever thought about starting something of your own, whether it’s a candle line, a skincare brand, or any kind of creative hustle, I hope my story inspires you to take that first step—even if it’s a tiny one.

Thank you for being here.

With love,
Joselys