My Candle Gave Me Migraines… and a Business Idea
You know that cozy feeling of lighting a candle after a long day? The one that makes you feel like a sophisticated adult who totally has their life together? Yeah, me too. My post-work routine was simple: come home, light a beautifully scented candle, and bask in the illusion that I was one step away from starring in my own chic, minimal aesthetic lifestyle vlog.
Except, plot twist: my beloved candles were literally giving me migraines.
At first, I did what any rational person would do—I ignored the problem. (Maybe I just need more coffee. Or less coffee? More sleep? Less stress? You know, classic denial.) But after weeks of battling splitting headaches, I finally connected the dots. My home, my sanctuary, was actually a toxic fume chamber. Dramatic? Maybe. But once I started researching, I realized that a lot of mainstream candles contain harmful chemicals like parabens, phthalates, and artificial fragrances that can trigger headaches, allergies, and even mess with your hormones.
So, there I was, having a full-blown candle-induced identity crisis. Do I give up my love for scented candles? Accept a life of unscented sadness? The thought was too bleak.
And then it hit me: What if I just made my own?
Not just any candles, but ones that smelled divine, burned clean, and didn’t come with a side of headaches. That little spark (pun absolutely intended) turned into something bigger. Because let’s be honest—who stops at just one idea? Before I knew it, my vision expanded into an entire home wellness brand, one that included silk pillowcases, luxurious sleepwear, and all the little things that make staying in feel like a five-star experience.
It wasn’t just about selling candles anymore; it was about creating a whole vibe.
The Homebody Dream (And My Poodle Approved It)
Look, I’ll be the first to admit it: I’m a homebody at heart. Some people thrive on socializing, weekend brunches, and crowded events. Me? I thrive on fluffy blankets, a warm cup of tea, and the sweet, sweet silence of my own space. My idea of a wild night? Staying in, lighting a candle, and pretending I live in a Nancy Meyers movie.
And if I do leave my house, just know that I’m counting down the minutes until I can come back.
So naturally, when I started this business, I wasn’t just thinking about candles—I was thinking about everything that makes staying in feel like an experience. The kind of products that turn your home into a sanctuary, whether you’re unwinding after a long day or just avoiding social interaction for the third time this week. (No judgment. I support you.)
But there was one more thing that sealed the deal for me: my poodle.
If you’ve ever owned a dog, you know they follow you everywhere. Mine is basically my tiny, fluffy shadow. So when I found out that many candles release toxins that can be harmful to pets (because of course they do), I knew I had to create something better—not just for me, but for all the other pet parents out there who want their homes to smell amazing without risking their fur baby’s health.
And just like that, my brand was born: a love letter to homebodies, candle lovers, and people who prefer their pets over most humans.
So… was it all worth it?
A thousand times yes.
Entrepreneurship is not for the faint of heart (or for those who enjoy things like “weekends” or “work-life balance”), but it’s also the most rewarding thing I’ve ever done. I’ve learned more in the past few years than I did in a decade of corporate life. I’ve built something I truly believe in, and I get to create products that make people’s lives better.
Yes, I work harder than ever. But at least now, the exhaustion comes with purpose—and no toxic candle headaches.
Would I do it all over again? Without a doubt.
Would I still launch 10 products at once? Absolutely not. (This needs a blog of it's own so more on this in the future).
And if you’re sitting on an idea, waiting for the perfect moment to start… here’s your sign. Just go for it. (Preferably without the migraine part.)