Today we’d like to introduce you to David Julfayan.
Hi David, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
To be completely honest, I never expected to be where I am today with my business. I started making candles in 2018 as a hobby while I was studying for my biology degree at UCLA. I’ve always had a fondness toward candles as I believe they can turn an empty space into an enjoyable experience. After a few successful attempts, I added my own twist to things and standardized my process. Exclusively incorporating natural, non-GMO, vegan soy wax without any additives was essential. Since candles melt and release into the air, having a clean fuel source is important for a healthy lifestyle. I made a few small batches of candles and thought I could make a profit by selling them on Etsy. To my surprise, I sold out within the first week! After that, I started to take things seriously and realized my potential.
Christopher By David was born out of the combination of my middle and first names. Prior to this, I never had much use for my middle name so the decision to honor it through my business came naturally. I researched local suppliers, developed custom packaging and created my own website and Instagram account to promote my work and share it with the world. I got into contact with wedding planners and event designers and, through them, curated candles for decoration and party favors as a reputable vendor. Soon, my network of clients exploded to all corners of the country!
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Balancing my academic life with my work life did come with some challenges. Up until graduation, I was juggling my time between studying for school and making candles. Since I make them all from scratch, It does take a considerable amount of time to produce them to the high quality of standards I set for myself. I work hard to create products and content that align with my vision for the company. Sometimes, however, I do bite off more than I can chew. Thankfully, I have the great support of my family and friends who help me whenever they can.
Since I am an online business, I don’t have a storefront to display my work to the public. Most of my publicity comes from online advertisements and word of mouth. That’s why I am so grateful for opportunities like these where I can network and show my products to a wider audience. Los Angeles is saturated with artists and businesses so it is easy to get lost in the crowd. As a small and growing business, any kind of support is appreciated.
We’ve been impressed with Christopher By David, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
I create high-quality, luxury, scented candles made of all-natural non-GMO, vegan soy wax. I strive for the minimal. Less is more. With a sleek design and clean look, my candles elevate any room. They are a treat for the eyes, as well as the nose. I create custom labels for events, businesses, or personalized gifts and ship all over the USA. I work closely with my clients to make sure everything they want is incorporated into their candles while staying true to myself and my vision.
Coming from an Armenian background, I combined modern art with ancient Armenian heritage. The symbol I display on my candles represents eternity and everlasting celestial life. It is very prominent in Armenian works of art and architecture. During last year’s war on Artsakh, I created exclusive candles and raised money by donating all proceeds to the region. Together, we were able to raise enough money to help multiple families and purchase essential medical supplies for soldiers and civilians hurt in the conflict.
Currently, I am working on expanding my product line with the addition of candle accessories and all-natural reed diffusers. This is a huge step forward in my business and I can’t wait to share all of my new creations with the world.
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
It is definitely important to stay true to who you are and the values you uphold. If you don’t believe in the work you are doing, then why do it at all? I express myself through my work and what I create. There will always be opposition and negativity that tries to bring you down but with a positive mindset, you can create the vibes that you want for yourself and block all of that out. The mind is a powerful tool and learning how to shape the energies that will benefit your life is truly a game-changer. Sticking to my vision and staying positive through thick and thin has earned me the respect of colleagues, clients, and fellow business owners.
Contact Info:
- Email: christopherbydavid@gmail.com
- Website: www.christopherbydavid.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/christopherbydavid/
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/ChristopherByDavid/
