Today we’d like to introduce you to Chet Kastle
Hi Chet, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I started Hermit’s Hearth Apothecary from a deep love of herbalism, witchcraft, and handcrafted goods. My background as a hairstylist gave me an understanding of self-care and personal expression, but I always felt drawn to something more magical and meaningful. Over time, I began experimenting with candle-making, incense blending, and herbal preparations, crafting products that aligned with both practical and spiritual uses.
At first, it was just a small side project—something I did out of passion. I started vending at local markets with my husband Jake. He’s always there encouraging and helpful and honestly the Worlds Best Supportive Husband I could ever ask for. I saw how much people resonated with my creations and the environment we would create at markets. That connection encouraged me to expand, refining my recipes, improving my craftsmanship, and building Hermit’s Hearth into a business that blends magic and everyday ritual.
Now, I’m working toward making this my full-time career, vending regularly at farmers markets and events, and growing my online presence. It’s been a journey of learning, persistence, and trusting my craft. My goal is to keep expanding, offering more unique products and eventually incorporating magical services into my work.
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?
It hasn’t always been a smooth road. Like any small business, there have been challenges—learning to balance work and life, figuring out when to “clock out,” and accepting that growth takes time. Patience has been one of the hardest lessons, especially during slow seasons or moments of disappointment. Such as markets we thought were going to do well and turned out that we didn’t even make enough to pay for the registration. But it’s choosing to remain positive. Staying motivated through those times can be tough, but I remind myself why I started and focus on the progress I’ve made. Every challenge has been a learning experience, and each step forward makes the journey worthwhile.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I run Hermit’s Hearth Apothecary, where I create handcrafted candles, incense, bath and body products, and unique crochet creatures inspired by folklore and magic. I specialize in thoughtfully blended fragrances and intentionally crafted products that bring ritual and meaning into everyday life. My incense and oil blends are carefully formulated—not just simple mixes, but recipes designed with depth and purpose.
I’m most proud of how my business has grown from a passion project into something that truly connects with people. Seeing customers return for their favorite scents, hearing how a candle or incense blend has become part of someone’s routine—that’s what makes it all worth it.
What sets me apart is that every product I make is deeply personal. I don’t just create for the sake of selling—I put real thought into every blend, every scent, and every design. My apothecary is an extension of my own craft, and I think that authenticity is something people can feel when they shop with us at markets and use my products.
What does success mean to you?
I define success as finding a balance between comfort and happiness. I don’t need to be a millionaire—I just want to live a life where I can support myself doing what I love, without constant stress or struggle. Success, to me, is about feeling fulfilled in my work, enjoying the process, and having the freedom to create without burnout. As long as I’m comfortable, happy, and having fun along the way, I know I’m on the right path.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://hermitshearthapothecary.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hermits.hearth.apothecary
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hermitshearthapothecary
