Theres ALWAYS a good story behind why people become what they do for a living. Maybe they followed in their parents footsteps, or maybe they worked in a cubicle for 10 years before taking the big leap to their dream career. I am always fascinated into learning why people do what they do. Aren't you?
One of the first things we ask people when we meet is "what do you do for a living?" Side note - I actually hate that question. But I'll get to that later.
I started making candles in my tiny apartment in 2012. Before I met my husband and before kids. It's a good thing that I was pre-kids because I had no idea what I was doing, what was in the fragrances I was using, or anything about how bad palm wax is for the environment. I purchased a 10lb bag of wax on craigslist, and a few items from Hobby Lobby and got started. I made candles for fun after work as a way to decompress from a stressful job.
Through the years I started learning more about the art of candles making. It became a creative outlet for me and I found it so interesting to see how different waxes and scent combos worked. I usually burned them myself or gave them away to friends. It was just a hobby for many years.
Later down the road when we learned our twins would be born early. They came at seven weeks early weighing 3lbs. 1oz. and 3lbs. 12oz. The two month NICU journey was a very weird time in our life. I just had two babies but they weren't home with me. The experience started putting life into perspective for me. It showed me what is really important in life. It showed me that my family and my families happiness is the most important thing we have.
I dreamed of owning my own candle business and becoming a NICU Mom gave me even more of a superpower feeling. I knew that I was time to pursue my passion. If not now, when?
The thought of these tiny babies coming home was exciting and also scary. The nurses told us that it is important for us to keep them extra safe and protected. I started researching non-toxic fragrances for my candles, what the best eco-friendly wicks to use, and what types of wax are were not harmful for my family.
The combination of the dream and the purpose was how Wesley + Wade was born.
Needless to say the first few months of having twins at home and starting a business is absolutely crazy!! But I am so glad I went for it. Sometimes the worst times can lead to the best. It was the case for me!
See! There's always a good story behind the "why"
Next time you have the pleasure to ask someone - "what do you do for a living?" Consider asking "what work are you passionate about?" I bet there's is probably a really good story in there somewhere along the way ;)
