Daily Inspiration: Meet LaCole Wynn

Today we’d like to introduce you to LaCole Wynn.

Hi LaCole, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I had just lost my job and was worried about how I’d afford gifts for my loved ones with the holidays just around the corner. I was roaming through the craft store when my creative spark said “make candles!” Upon making candles for my mom, dad, grandma and siblings, friends began to ask if I could make candles for their loved ones as well. I began accepting custom orders and business took off from there! I took a huge leap of faith and rented a storefront so customers could have their own candle making sessions and purchase already made candles when the tornados of 2019 hit just after one month of being open for business. With no storefront but a list of customers wanting their candles, I made a website and began doing pop up events. These events not only helped to grow my business, but other businesses as well due to customers coming in for candles and becoming aware of a new location. This concept influenced me to obtain my event truck for pop up candle making events and have proceeds benefit my nonprofit that helps the community thrive by networking and collaborating with other small businesses. Now, 10 years later, Engelé Essentials host hundreds of candle making parties with unique themes and helps many businesses thrive through the Engelé Community Center platform.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Every struggle has its purpose. When I no longer had a storefront due to circumstances beyond my control, I had to quickly learn to be flexible and innovative. Aside from financial setbacks, being a business owner is also about revamping as many times as necessary. Switching from being located in a building to being online as well as mobile was an adjustment that needed to be made because it benefited my business and made me stand out tremendously. Prior to purchasing the Engelé Mobile Showcase for Pop Up Events, I set up on busy streets under a pink tent and sold candles and kept my clientele happy that they could still order candles. This attracted curious customers and my business grew throughout the summer so people could still get their uniquely scented custom candles.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am most known for making candles that resemble delicious foods and hilarious objects. Customers love the banana split candles as well as candles that look like people and pets. I am most proud of my resiliency throughout my entrepreneurial journey.

How do you think about luck?
“Luck” has played a role in my life and business by preparing me for the worst while providing the best! It keeps me humble and appreciative while teaching me to be flexible when storms do arrive.

Pricing:

• Custom Candles average $25-$35
• Candle Making Parties start at $150
• Wax Melts and Tea Lights $6 each
• Candle $15

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.EngeleEssentials.com
• Instagram: Engele_Essentials
• Facebook: Engele Essentials