Amy Vance is terribly allergic to conventional candles with synthetic fragrance. But she still wanted candles, so she set out to make her own. Procuring organic, ethical, sustainable, USA-made ingredients, she’s created not just any candles, but naturally scented soy candles with low smoke wicks. Add to that her desire to use local ingredients and to donate a percentage of her profits to those in need, and it equals success.
Name: Amy Vance.
Residence neighborhood: Barberton.
Business name: Vance Family Soy Candles, 360-576-5848, www.vancefamilysoycandles.com
Age: 41.
How you got started in your business: I began selling at the Battle Ground Village Farmers Market and found that I wasn’t alone in my desire for candles made like mine versus petroleum-based ones with harmful fragrances and dyes. As the sole breadwinner for myself and three children, I knew that wholesale was going to be the way to go. I tried toting my young sons with me to shops to try and sell my candles, but it proved quite difficult. With a serendipitous check I’d received from an insurance claim, I was able to sign up for the Seattle Gift Show. From that moment on, I’ve never doubted where I am, or what I’m doing, and every day I am humbled and thankful for the opportunities I’ve been given and the relationships I’ve built.
Personal/business philosophy: Say yes (then worry about how to do it). Always do my best. Always go the extra mile. Always be thankful. Never take my customers or situations for granted. Always have a sense of humor. Communicate. Don’t go in debt. Think outside the box. Don’t conform. Don’t worry, be happy.
Most rewarding part of job: There is so much! Being able to bring my children to work with me and having a flexible schedule. Being creative. Being able to be generous with donations to charities and candlelight vigils, with employees, other local businesses, artists, families and neighbors.
