We recently connected with Andrea McGrath and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Andrea thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Let’s start with the decision of whether to donate a percentage of sales to an organization or cause – we’d love to hear the backstory of how you thought through this.

I am deeply committed to making a positive impact on mental health, and as a passionate advocate, I have chosen to contribute 5% of my income to mental health organizations. This decision is rooted in a personal connection to the cause, as my daughter grapples with her own mental health challenges. Witnessing her journey has fueled my dedication to raising awareness and supporting initiatives that address the complexities of mental well-being. Having seen firsthand the gaps in resources and understanding within the field, I believe it is crucial to contribute towards ongoing efforts to destigmatize mental health issues and provide essential support. Through this commitment, I hope to contribute to the broader movement for improved mental health care and create a more compassionate and understanding society for those facing mental health struggles.

Andrea, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

My journey into candle making began as a quest to provide a cleaner and healthier option for my family. Frustrated by the often chemically-laden and environmentally unfriendly candles available on the market, I decided to take matters into my own hands. Armed with a desire to create something pure and soothing, I delved into the world of candle making using soy wax and all-natural ingredients. The process started as a personal project, aiming to offer my loved ones a safer alternative for creating ambiance at home. Witnessing the positive impact of these candles on my family’s well-being sparked the idea to share this with a broader audience. Stepping into the small business world wasn’t just about crafting candles; it was also deeply intertwined with my commitment to mental health advocacy.

Inspired by personal experiences, particularly my daughter’s struggles with mental health, I embarked on this entrepreneurial venture to not only offer high-quality handcrafted candles but also to contribute to a cause close to my heart. Our candles are meticulously crafted with premium ingredients, providing a sensory experience that promotes relaxation and mindfulness. More than just a product, Out of Darkness Candle Co aims to shed light on mental health issues by donating 5% of our proceeds to mental health organizations. What sets us apart is our dual purpose – creating beautiful, aromatic candles while actively participating in the broader conversation about mental well-being.

Our products are crafted with care, using soy wax and all-natural ingredients to ensure a clean and non-toxic burn. Every scent is meticulously curated by me and my family, drawing from personal experiences and emotions to evoke feelings of peace, focus, and serenity. We understand the challenges faced by busy individuals seeking an effortless way to unwind. Candles, to me, have been a form of therapy during my own stressful times, and it’s this transformative power that I aim to share with others through our carefully crafted scents. Out of Darkness candles are more than just beautiful décor; they are an invitation to create moments of calm and introspection in the midst of a hectic world. We solve the problem of finding a simple yet impactful way to prioritize self-care.

I am immensely proud of the positive impact we’ve made in supporting mental health initiatives, and the community we have built in the process. Together, we can illuminate the path towards a more compassionate and understanding world.

We’d love to hear the story of how you built up your social media audience?

Building an authentic and engaged social media audience for Out of Darkness Candle Co has been a gratifying journey rooted in genuine connection. From the outset, I recognized the importance of authenticity, and that became the cornerstone of my approach. The most crucial advice I can offer to those starting out is to be unapologetically yourself. Don’t hesitate to show the real, human side of your brand. Social media is a platform for building relationships, and the most impactful connections are formed when you show up authentically.

I consider my social media followers more than just an audience; they are friends and valued members of a community we’re building together. Interacting with them in a way that reflects genuine friendship has been key. Responding with the same warmth and authenticity as you would to a best friend fosters a sense of belonging and trust. Share not only your products but also the behind-the-scenes moments, personal anecdotes, and the passion driving your brand.

Remember, social media is meant to be social. Engage with your followers, participate in conversations, and create a space where people feel comfortable sharing their thoughts. Building a community takes time, but the connections formed are enduring. So, my advice boils down to this: Be yourself, be social, and embrace the opportunity to connect with your audience on a personal level. In doing so, you’ll not only grow your brand but also cultivate meaningful relationships that extend beyond the digital realm.

Can you talk to us about how your funded your business?

I began with a modest investment of around $500. Fueled by a passion for creating clean, therapeutic candles, I purchased essential supplies and got to work crafting my initial creations. As sales started to roll in, I made a conscious decision to reinvest every cent back into the business. This financial strategy became the foundation for growth and improvement.

In the early stages, I faced the challenges inherent in any startup. Yet, I embraced the idea of starting messy, understanding that perfection comes with progress. With each sale, I learned valuable lessons, and I used those insights to pivot and refine both my products and business strategy. As the business evolved, I made strategic decisions to upgrade to higher-end supplies, ensuring a premium quality product that resonated with my growing customer base.

Though the small business journey is an ongoing process and I might not be exactly where I envision, my advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is simple: Start with your passion and what you have in front of you. Building a business is a step-by-step process, and it’s crucial not to be paralyzed by the fear of imperfection. Reinvest in your dream, learn from every experience, and never stop evolving. The journey may be challenging, but with dedication and a willingness to grow, you’ll create something beautiful out of the humble beginnings.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.outofdarknesscandle.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/outofdarknesscandle_co
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/outofdarknesscandle_co

Image Credits
Jes Whiteford