Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Loren Lewin. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Loren, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Owning a business isn’t always glamorous and so most business owners we’ve connected with have shared that on tough days they sometimes wonder what it would have been like to have just had a regular job instead of all the responsibility of running a business. Have you ever felt that way?

Being a business owner and the founder of Companion Candles has been an incredible journey, filled with both challenges and moments of incredible happiness. Leaving behind a stable six-figure job to dive into entrepreneurship was undoubtedly a significant decision, and with that, of course moments of reflection.

The last time the thought of a “regular job” crossed my mind was during a particularly challenging phase in the early days of Companion Candles. It was a period of uncertainty where the pressures of building a brand, managing operations, and competing in a crowded market were taking a toll. The weight of responsibility, coupled with the unpredictability of business, led me to briefly consider the stability of a traditional job.

I vividly remember sitting in my home office, surrounded by the comforting glow of prototypes and the subtle fragrance of our signature candles. It was late at night, and I was reviewing financial reports, brainstorming marketing strategies, and contemplating the path I had chosen. The allure of a regular job, with its defined roles and consistent paycheck, seemed momentarily appealing in the face of the entrepreneurial rollercoaster.

However, as I delved deeper into my thoughts, I realized that the challenges I faced were integral to the entrepreneurial journey. Each obstacle was an opportunity for growth, learning, and innovation. The passion that drove me to start Companion Candles in the first place — the desire to create a brand that resonated with people, brought joy to their lives and their pets — served as a powerful anchor.

I reflected on the freedom and autonomy that entrepreneurship offered, allowing me to shape the direction of my future and make decisions aligned with my vision. The moments of uncertainty were counterbalanced by the sense of fulfillment derived from seeing the business grow, connecting with customers, and witnessing the positive impact of our products. In the first year we had a PO with Macy’s, were featured on the Today Show, Forbes and many more!

While the stability of a regular job may provide a sense of security, the journey of building Companion Candles has been a unique and rewarding experience. It’s a reminder that the challenges and uncertainties are an inherent part of the entrepreneurial landscape, and they contribute to the tapestry of success, both personally and professionally.

Ultimately, the decision to pursue entrepreneurship was driven by a deep passion for the business and the belief that Companion Candles could make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. The journey may be challenging, but the fulfillment derived from building something meaningful outweighs the allure of a conventional career path. And honestly, who needs a regular job when you can have the extraordinary adventure of building something you love? Cheers to chaos and creativity!

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

After many hours of quarantine with her pup, Mylo, Loren Lewin realized that her store bought candles did not live up to their claims, or her standards, and were filled with foreign ingredients that were not only harmful to her, but to Mylo as well. Loren threw out her store bought candles and started making her own homemade, cleaner version of candles. She never looked back. Companion Candles was founded in 2021, introducing a much needed change to the candle industry.

At Companion Candles, we are many things and proud: cruelty-free, women-owned, vegan, pet lovers, made in the USA and free of the four P’s: paraffins, phthalates, preservatives and petroleum. All candles are made in small batches with an organic coconut-soy blend wax and the highest quality fragrances available. We are on a mission to give all companion animals a better life, which is why we donate $1/purchase to different animal welfare organizations. Our scents are inspired by the delicate moments with our favorite companion by our side. Named a “Top-Three Women-Owned Brand to Watch” by the Today Show, Companion Candles is loved by Forbes, Good Morning America, Buzzfeed, theSkimm, Coveteur, Well + Good and many more. We invite and welcome you to the journey that is Companion Candles. We are so happy you are here.

How did you put together the initial capital you needed to start your business?

I decided to bootstrap my business for the first year and a half in order to establish product market fit. After I had that, I was more open to taking a small bit of outside capital!

Are there any books, videos or other content that you feel have meaningfully impacted your thinking?

Yes! I absolutely love to read and listen to podcasts. A few of my favorites include Atomic Habits, Harvard Business Review, Good To Great, and Female Founder World podcast.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://companioncandles.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/companioncandles/