Mum running her business on her laptop

Turning a Craft into a Business – Can to Candle

Tell us your name and a bit about your family? When did you become a Mum and to whom?

My name is Kerry, I am originally from Ireland but now living in Scotland. I became a mum in 2005 and now have 3 daughters, Pippa, Tessa and Eliza.

What’s your business called?

My business is called Can To Candle as started out using recyled cans.

Can you describe it in one sentence?

Can To Candle is a small batch natural wax candle company using fine fragrances to create affordable candles.

 When did you become a Mumpreneur and what inspired you?

I became a mumpreneur 18 months ago inspired by recycled candles in heinz cans that I saw on Pinterest and thought I could do that and the idea grew from there.

How did you find your start up?

I funded the start up myself.

How do you manage to work around your children?

I get up at 6am and work for an hour before the kids get up, and then work when they are at nursery and school and then again when they are in bed at night.

Can you describe a typical day?

A typical day starts early, I do admin in the morning before the children get up, while they are at school its off to the workshop to make candles and post orders. At night its packaging up orders and planning for the next day.

What challenges have you faced in your business and how have you overcome them?

The challenges I face is trying to create brand awareness online as there are so many candle companies out there and people like to smell before they buy. I am now overcoming this by working out a social media strategy showcasing my unique selling points with my tweed candles and chalkboard candles.

What’s best thing about being a Mumpreneur?

The best thing about being a mumpreneur means I don’t miss out on any of the things that make being a mum special.

What are your plans for the future?

Plans for the future will include developing a candle where a proportion of money will go to the Meningitis association of Scotland.

What advice would you give for someone just starting out in business?

My advice to someone starting out is to really research your idea, make sure you have a USP, and be prepared for the long haul and to spend time promoting it on socail media.
www.cantocandle.com

www.facebook.com/cantocandle

www.instagram.com/can_to_candle

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