Today we’d like to introduce you to Raina René.
Hi Raina, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I talked about starting my own candle business for years. I went to Florida to visit my father who was diagnosed with prostate cancer and was having surgery to have it removed. While I was there, a light bulb lit up in my head and I said why wait any longer. That very moment I pulled out my computer and created my LLC, the rest is history. It wasn’t easy, I did so much research to figure out how I wanted my candles to be different. Having asthma, using soy wax was one of the things that was important to me. I also wanted to make sure they were free of paraffins, phthalates and other harmful chemicals. I’m very intentional these days about what goes in my body and that includes what you inhale. Next was selecting a vessel that I would love and of course everyone else would love. I wanted something you would want to keep in your home even after the wax was finished. There was lots of trial and error to get to where the candles are now, from mistakes in quantity orders or just enhancements and being able to provide my customers with the best product I could possibly provide without compromising the integrity of the candle. To this day, I continue to do research and continue to improve to ensure customers are getting the absolute best. That is the key to getting I am today.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It definitely wasn’t a smooth road. Being an entrepreneur means you are the accountant, the staff, cashier, marketing strategist, customer service rep, etc. and sometimes all your “people” don’t show up the same way. When that happens, it can really kill your motivation. I learned even more when the pandemic happened between shipping delays and supply stalls it definitely taught me to always have a contingency plan and plan for the worse. It definitely helped me learn my strengths and apply lessons to come out on the other side of the pandemic stronger.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
As a candle designer, every detail is so important. From the vessel to the labels, every intricate detail is create to be an exquisite complement to any room in your home or space. This thought process goes into every product that we sell. It’s important to me that people really connect with the brand and love each item. It’s my little way of saving the world one candle at a time 🙂
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
I would tell any entrepreneur starting out not to be afraid to ask for help! You have to be able to take risks and release your fears. Every ounce of advice can take you a step further and also build relationships for the future.
Pricing:
- Discovery Candle Set – $50
- Customizable Luxury Candle Gift Set – $55
- Gold Wick Trimmer – $10
- Travel Size Candles – $15
- Wax Melts – $12
Contact Info:
- Email: deluxecandles@shopdeluxeonline.com
- Website: www.shopdeluxeonline.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/shopdeluxeonline
- Facebook: Facebook.com/shopdeluxeonline
Image Credits:
@shopdeluxeonline
