We were lucky to catch up with Cap Rivera recently and have shared our conversation below.

Cap, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Are you able to earn a full-time living from your creative work? If so, can you walk us through your journey and how you made it happen?

My journey started back in 2003 making candles and soaps, but in 2018 I took a real leap of faith and relaunched my business with the intention of taking it seriously. By 2022, I was working for myself full-time and even opened a stand at Columbia Mall in Maryland with four paid staff members. What makes my brand unique is that my candles and soaps look like realistic desserts and food, so people are always shocked when they realize they’re not edible. During one stretch, I made more money in six months than I had ever made in a full year working traditional jobs, which really showed me the power of believing in my creativity.
I’ve also had opportunities like being part of the M&T Bank cohort, placing in the Top 5 of a pitch competition, and receiving $5,000 for participating. Entrepreneurship is rewarding, but it’s also difficult because when you have a niche product, you really have to believe in yourself before everyone else does. Looking back, I probably would’ve sped things up by trusting myself sooner and focusing more on scaling and marketing earlier on.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I’m a creative entrepreneur, visual strategist, and multi-business owner based in Maryland. My journey really began in 2003 with my brand Candelicioso, where I became known for creating highly realistic dessert candles and soaps that look edible. What sets my products apart is the level of detail and artistry behind them — people often think they’re looking at actual cakes, pies, or desserts before realizing they’re candles and body products. Over the years, my creativity expanded into other industries as well. I launched XoDelicioso, a catering business specializing in Spanish, Italian, and Indian cuisine, which allowed me to combine culture, flavor, and presentation into unforgettable experiences.
I’m also the host and co-creator of the TikTok platform Verse & Vision Live, a growing entertainment and discussion platform featuring talent showcases, interviews, music conversations, and debates. I love creating spaces where creatives and independent voices feel seen and heard.
However, one of the most rewarding roles I’ve stepped into recently is becoming a visual strategist and music manager for rising Christian Hip-Hop artist of of New Jersey, JV. Helping shape the creative direction, branding, and rollout for his music has been incredibly fulfilling. His debut single Beauty for Ashes drops May 30, 2026, on all DSPs, and being part of that journey from the ground up has reminded me how powerful vision, storytelling, and consistency can be.
More than anything, I want people to know that my brands are built on creativity, authenticity, and passion. Whether it’s candles, food, entertainment, or music, I aim to create experiences that leave a lasting impression.

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

One of the biggest pivots in my life happened after running my business full-time and operating a stand in Columbia Mall. While the experience was rewarding, I eventually had to make the difficult decision to walk away because of declining foot traffic and shifts in consumer habits. My products are very niche — my candles and soaps are so realistic and detailed that people often said they were “too pretty to burn.” While that sounds like a compliment, it also created challenges when it came to sales. On top of that, more people began shopping online, and in-person retail became harder to sustain. That season humbled me. I had to step away from full-time entrepreneurship and return to working a traditional job while figuring out my next move. But even during that transition, I never stopped being creative. Instead, I started rebuilding and rebranding myself through social media and the TikTok space, creating new opportunities and connecting with new audiences.
What’s been incredible is seeing how all of my past experiences are now coming together. I’ve stepped into the role of music management with my company S.S.P Blueprint and visual strategist for my primary artist J.V. an up-and-coming Christian Hip-Hop artist, and having someone trust me with their talent and vision is an amazing feeling. I have a background in music, entertainment, and radio, so although I never imagined this path years ago, it feels like everything I learned along the way prepared me for this moment.

Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?

One lesson I had to unlearn was believing that talent alone guarantees success. Growing up, a lot of us are taught that if you work hard enough and perfect your craft, the opportunities will automatically come. But the reality is, success often has just as much to do with networking, visibility, and relationships as it does talent. Sometimes the most gifted people never get the recognition they deserve, while others succeed because they understand how to connect, market themselves, and stay visible. I’ve learned that consistency is key and content is King. You have to put yourself out there, make noise, command attention, and be confident enough to pitch whatever it is you’re bringing to the table. Closed mouths don’t get fed, and hidden talent often stays hidden.
I also believe deeply in never giving up on yourself because it only takes one “Yes” to completely change your trajectory. One opportunity, one connection, or one person believing in you can shift everything. That’s why I always say you have to protect your mindset. In the garden of your dreams, you have to water the positivity that leads to growth and uproot the negativity that causes stagnation. The way you think about yourself matters just as much as the work you put in.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: Candelicioso2018
• Facebook: Facebook.com/Candelicioso
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@fullofshenanigans?si=czTRb-SlCzsN7i7y
• Other: Instagram: XoDelicioso, Versevisionlive