We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Laura Mathis. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Laura below.
Laura, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today So let’s jump to your mission – what’s the backstory behind how you developed the mission that drives your brand?
Established in 2017 by owner Laura Melton Mathis, Melton Candle Company initially began as a means to supplement income. Starting with wax melts, Mathis soon expanded her product line to include captivating container candles. Her unique approach involved repurposing vintage containers sourced from thrift shops, giving them a second life as beautifully crafted candles.
Demonstrating unwavering dedication and entrepreneurial spirit, Mathis took her business to new heights. In the subsequent year, she participated as an exhibitor at the prestigious Atlanta Gift Mart and ventured into the wholesale market, opening her wholesale division.
Demonstrating astute business acumen, Mathis opened her first storefront in Adel, Georgia, where she exclusively showcased her candles while utilizing the remaining space for online and wholesale orders. When the COVID-19 pandemic posed unprecedented challenges, Mathis swiftly adapted by relocating her operations back home. This strategic move enabled her to leverage the power of online sales, resulting in remarkable growth. To meet escalating demand, Mathis employed ten talented individuals who assisted with pouring, packing, and shipping candles from her house.
With the world gradually recovering from the pandemic, Mathis made a strategic decision to shift production and retail operations to a spacious warehouse in Sparks, Georgia. In 2021, she further expanded her business horizons by establishing the fundraiser division, partnering with a Tennessee-based company that utilizes Melton candles for school fundraisers.
Looking ahead, Mathis seized an opportunity in the summer of 2022 to establish a new retail location at 1421 Gornto Road, an exciting leap forward for Melton Candle Company. With great anticipation and enthusiasm, Mathis opened her doors to the public on February 6, 2023, ushering in a new era for her business and the local community.
Melton Candle Company goes beyond offering exceptional products; it curates unforgettable moments through candle classes and pouring parties. Whether for joyous occasions like bridal showers and birthday parties or professional gatherings such as staff meetings, these experiences provide a unique opportunity for individuals to create their own personalized candles.
Each Melton candle is meticulously mixed and poured by hand, using all-natural soy wax and skin-safe fragrances. “It is very important to us for our families and yours to have a great experience burning a healthier option in candles,” emphasized Mathis, reflecting the company’s commitment to quality and customer well-being.
For more information, contact Laura Melton Mathis at (229) 929-2892, by email at meltoncandleco@outlook.com, or online at www.meltoncandlecompany.com.
Laura, 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?
Established in 2017 by owner Laura Melton Mathis, Melton Candle Company initially began as a means to supplement income. Starting with wax melts, Mathis soon expanded her product line to include captivating container candles. Her unique approach involved repurposing vintage containers sourced from thrift shops, giving them a second life as beautifully crafted candles.
The problem I solve for candle lovers is that I have removed the paraffin and UV protectants from my wax to provide a more natural candle by only using 100% natural soy wax. This allows people who have allergies to paraffin to enjoy candles in their home.
I am most proud of the growth of my business. I am a woman owned business and have built this from the ground up with hard work and dedication. I want my children and other future business owners to see my success and know they can do anything they put their minds to.
What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?
I’ve had to learn not to wear my heart on my sleeve. Owning your own business can be brutal at times. Most customers only see the product and do not know the people behind the product. Therefore, you can sometimes get treated rather rudely. I’ve had to learn not to take that personally and roll with the punches
Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?
I built my audience by going to craft shows and by collecting marketing emails when customers signed into my website.
Another way I collected followers is through social media giveaways.
I also host candle making classes and would ask participants to share my page to their followers. If they did that during the parties I would gift them a product from my candle line.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.meltoncandlecompany.com
- Instagram: @meltoncandles
- Facebook: @themeltoncandlecompany
Image Credits
Carly Co Photography Magnolia South Photography