Interviewee:
Jennifer Fong (she/her)
In your own words, tell us about your business, organization, or initiative.
At Candlelilla Co. I hand make Reiki-infused candles and wellness items that prioritize all-natural ingredients to promote self-care and healing. Each item is formulated in my kitchen studio with love and intention, using pure essential oils, plant-based ingredients, and zero plastic packaging. My goal is to offer non-toxic products that nourish the body and soul, while being kind to the planet.
In a world that is constantly seeking our attention, giving ourselves a little of our own time often gets pushed to the bottom of our priorities. This business was a way to remind myself and others that we deserve our own care as well.
If you’re looking to create a calming space or simply want a quiet moment to yourself, you can trust each item I make is non-toxic and thoughtfully crafted to help you feel more grounded, clear negative energies in your space, and create a healing environment.
Tell us a bit about you and why you do what you do. Share your passions for your business, organization, or initiative.
As someone who’s sensitive to chemicals, etc I couldn’t find things that worked for me, so I began making my own all-natural solutions. I love crafting self-care items because they’re an invitation for us to reconnect with ourselves. In such a chaotic world, we need to take time to unwind and recharge. I love hearing from people how one of my products has become part of their nighttime routine or how it helps them unwind after a long day.
I’ve always been drawn to practices like meditation and Reiki to help me stay grounded, especially while I was teaching and pursuing my PhD in Education. After getting burnt out from the education and nonprofit fields, I realized how essential our health and well-being are to showing up fully every day, and decided to turn my passion of crafting natural products into my full-time career.
Of course, holistic healing is about so much more than lighting a candle or taking a bath, but it’s the little things we do for ourselves that can make a big difference in our well-being over time. Now more than ever our mental health is paramount. It’s why we also give back to mental health organizations, especially for youth.
What is the last thing you read, watched, or listened to that had an impact on you?
The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron – I’ve revisited it a few times but I’m diving deeper since starting this business and learning how to re-awaken my inner artist. I think as creatives and entrepreneurs many of us can relate to the challenging thoughts and limiting beliefs that get in the way of expressing ourselves fully. So this book has helped me in understanding these creative blocks and feeling less imposter syndrome.
What’s the one thing people would be surprised to learn about you or your business?
I don’t think I would’ve started this business if I didn’t get laid off from my job. After spending years studying and working, it was the nudge (or big push!) I needed from the universe to pivot and I finally listened. I realized I want to pour my energy into something I’m truly passionate about and that could hopefully make a positive impact in people’s lives, and so far it’s been worth it.
What is Creative Collective?
Creative Collective is a group of economic development strategists, small business supporters, activation specialists, and believers in the importance of the creative workforce. We foster growth, sustainability, and scalability for small businesses, creative thinkers, organizations, entrepreneurs, and innovators. Learn more and join Creative Collective at www.creativecollectivema.com/join
