Today we’d like to introduce you to Sergio Cazares.
Hi Sergio, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
It all started when my partner would burn candles for hours at a time. She loves candles and would buy them in bulk to burn all day. I noticed that my headaches were increasing and lasting longer when she would burn the candles so I decided to do some research. I started doing research on the candles she was buying and found that so many candles have carcinogens and have highly toxic chemicals. I also love candles and noticed that many candles were more feminine and floral, not many catering to the masculine energy. I wanted to find a pure candle, something that would smell great, be able to burn for hours at a time but without the toxins and headaches. We searched high and low and we didn’t come across anything we liked or felt comfortable with. I found that beeswax candles are some of the best candles that you could burn without all of the toxins and carcinogens.
Unfortunately, the ones we would find weren’t scented! With no luck in finding a candle that we liked, I decided I would make my own and create my own scents. After lots of trial and error, I finally perfected the recipe for a magnificent candle if I do say so myself. Once I perfected the recipe, I made some candles, gave some samples away to some friends and family. The feedback that I received was amazing; everyone was asking me how they could obtain another one. Since the holidays were right around the corner, I decided I would make a batch and set up shop for a pop-up at Café Aficionado in Northridge. After my event, it was safe to say that my candles were a hit! I sold out that same day and had people asking for the next batch and placing their pre-orders. Slowly, more and more people were asking for another candle and more scents. I created a couple of scents but then I ended up collaborating with another creative and launched two new scents. Those scents were supposed to have been seasonal scents but the feedback and request I got helped me decide otherwise. What started off as something that I wanted to do for myself just a few months ago is now a blooming and thriving business. I have been invited to attend multiple outdoor markets, have expanded to multiple scents, and been able to collaborate with other creatives. I am very excited to see what the future hold for Sweet Sesh!
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has been a smooth bumpy road! I say that because yes, there have been many obstacles but one way or another I have been able to overcome them in a smooth and free flowing manner. I would say the very beginning has been the most difficult. It was a challenge because I needed to learn how to safely use the essential oils and the beeswax so that they don’t lose their healing properties. It was a fun yet strenuous process of trial and error to perfect the recipe. I can say that has been the biggest challenge I have encountered and overcome.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I specialize in making 100% pure organic beeswax candles. I take pride in manufacturing the cleanest candles I have ever seen. I believe what sets me apart from other candle manufacturers is that my candles are pure, non-toxic, air-purifying candles. All of my candles have four ingredients or less, which means no carcinogens or harmful toxic chemicals!
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
My biggest piece of advice is follow your gut, take breaks and don’t give up! I know it sounds super cliché but had I not done these things, I would not have been able to make it this far. Working a demanding full-time job and launching a business is taxing on a person’s mental health and well-being. Especially in a society that is all go and no stop. I knew that if I wanted to thrive, I needed to replenish my soul and spirit. It is crucial and vital to the success of myself and candles.
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: sweetseshpodcast.com
- Instagram: @sweetsesh_
- Twitter: @sesh_sweet
