We recently connected with Aisha Sanders and have shared our conversation below.
Aisha, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today How did you come up with the idea for your business?
Wicksup Candle Co. was born in 2022 during the pandemic, a time when many of us were grappling with stress and seeking comfort at home. I realized how much lighting a candle helped me feel grounded and present during those uncertain times, and it sparked an idea. What if people could not only enjoy candles but also be part of the creation process? That’s when I saw the opportunity to create a personalized, eco-friendly candle-making experience that could help others find a sense of calm and creativity, just as I had.
What excited me most was offering something beyond just a product—it was about giving people a hands-on, meaningful experience. In a world full of generic self-care items, I knew this approach would stand out. The combination of sustainability, creativity, and community was at the heart of Wicksup, and I was confident that people would resonate with the chance to make something unique while connecting with others, especially during a time when we all needed more of that.
Aisha, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
I’m Aisha Sanders, the founder of Wicksup Candle Co., which I launched in 2022 during the pandemic. The idea came from my own need to find calm and balance during a chaotic time, and I discovered how much lighting a candle could shift my mood. I wanted to create a space where others could have that same experience, so at Wicksup, we offer personalized, eco-friendly candle-making workshops and custom products. What sets us apart is the hands-on experience—our clients don’t just buy a candle, they make one. I’m proud to have built a community where people can come together, slow down, and create something meaningful that reflects their own style and sense of self-care. My goal is for every customer to leave feeling more connected, whether it’s through a workshop, a private party, or a custom order.
Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?
Building my social media audience for Wicksup Candle Co. across TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram took time, patience, and consistency. I focused on sharing engaging content that highlighted the candle-making process, our eco-friendly products, and behind-the-scenes moments that captured the essence of the brand. Authenticity was key—I made sure to respond to comments, feature customer creations, and foster a sense of community. Collaborating with like-minded small businesses and influencers also helped expand our reach. For anyone just starting out, my advice is to be consistent, authentic, and create valuable, unique content that reflects your brand while engaging meaningfully with your followers.
Are there any books, videos or other content that you feel have meaningfully impacted your thinking?
I find great inspiration in “Start with Why” by Simon Sinek, which underscores the significance of understanding the core purpose behind a business. This idea reinforces my belief that establishing an emotional connection with customers is essential for fostering a loyal community. I also enjoy watching TED Talks, especially Brené Brown’s discussion on vulnerability, which highlights the power of authenticity and openness in both personal and professional relationships. Together, these resources have equipped me with a positive and resilient mindset as I navigate the challenges of running Wicksup Candle Co.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.wicksupcandleco.com/
- Instagram: @wicksupcandlecompany
- Facebook: @wicksupcandle
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wicksup-candle-co
- Other: Tik Tok: @wicksupcandleco
