We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Jana Guinn a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Jana, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. What’s the backstory behind how you came up with the idea for your business?
Picture this-it’s March 2020, the world has shut down and you’re stuck at home with a toddler. Each day has blended into one another and you need something to look forward to so you order a bunch of candles because why not?! Your husband is sick of seeing candles everywhere and asks you to stop buying so many. You take his request literal and start making them instead. <new paragraph> When I was burning through all the candles I bought at various big box stores, I noticed many things I didn’t like about them. I didn’t like that they were creating soot around the vessels, some scents gave me headaches and some candles simply didn’t have a hot throw! I knew if I wanted to start making candles, my candles would have to be clean burning, non toxic and smell good! July Sky started as a hobby in my kitchen and has since grown into a community that has introduced me to so many new people, places and experiences.
Jana, 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?
At July Sky, we strive to make products safe for our environment, homes and bodies. Each product is handcrafted in micro batches to ensure quality and care. Our current product offerings include soy candles, room&linen sprays, wax melts, perfumes and car diffusers. We carry a core collection of 6 everyday scents as well as seasonal launches. We love working with other small businesses to create a signature scent unique to them, host candle making workshops and absolutely adore custom work for birthday parties, weddings or corporate events.
What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?
I have found that the best way to meet new potential customers is to go where they are-in person markets and events! They’re already out shopping so why not set up shop and let them take a look (or sniff) for themselves?! At in person events, I’m able to connect with customers, tell them a little bit about our business and ultimately, let the scents do the talking for me.
We’d really appreciate if you could talk to us about how you figured out the manufacturing process.
Believe it or not, candle making is a long process with a lot of trial and error. It’s not as simple as melting down wax and adding fragrances. There is quite a bit of math and some science involved. There are many components to candle making-type of wax, quality of fragrance oils, wick size, ratio of wax;oil and so much more! Making a proper candle that burns safe and smells good takes a lot of patience and experimenting but is always worth it!
Contact Info:
- Website: Julyskycandleco.etsy.com
- Instagram: @julyskycandleco
- Other: Email [email protected]
Image Credits
Hannah Ziegler