Today we’d like to introduce you to Funmi Agboola.
Hi Funmi, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I am a graduating senior studying marketing and business analytics at UTSA. I am also a creative director and photographer. I relocated to the US in 2009 with my family when I was eight and have lived in the Austin area for almost ten years. My parents worked hard to relocate our family to the United States because they wanted better for us. I think that idea of wanting to be and becoming better is what drives me in everything I do.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road for me. But the business challenges I have experienced have given me the opportunity to grow and learn. Some struggles I’ve had along the way were having to shut down my shop less than two months after I started because of the hosting site I used. More recently, a few months ago, I had issues with my housing and had to plan accordingly. These are just a few of the struggles I’ve had but they have only made me more focused on my goal.
We’ve been impressed with CandleLux Co., 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?
CandleLux Co. is a brand of handmade home products, including body mists and candles. I started CandleLux Co. because I wanted to create ways to help black women feel good about themselves. Because of this, each and every CandleLux Co. candle comes with a self-love affirmation included. I first got the idea for CandleLux Co. in November 2019. However, when the coronavirus pandemic started, I was heavily discouraged as were many others. But with guidance from loved ones, I persevered.
On June 22, 2020, I launched CandleLux Co and sold out in 90 minutes. Ever since then, my business has grown steadily. I have collaborated with other brilliant creatives and small business owners in Texas. I hope to continue to grow CandleLux Co. and become an internationally known business. As someone who has struggled with self-worth, it was very important to me that my products help other black women see their self-worth. Some of the affirmations that come with each candle include: “I treasure my presence and appearance,” “I am free to be myself,” “I am enough” and more. These are all affirmations that have helped me in the past. Also, some of my candles “Bad B.” and “Feelin’ Cute.” are named to be inspiring.
What sets CandleLux Co. apart is its ability to take a basic household product and make it a vehicle for self-love. My products are handmade with the purest oils, soy blend waxes, and organic ingredients. The mission is to always inspire self-confidence and peace through quality products.
I would like the readers to know that apart from my retail site, I also take custom orders for specific scents or custom candles for events. I also accept wholesale orders through Faire.com.
Risk taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
Taking risks is so important. I think that the space between taking a leap and landing is where growth happens. If it scares me, I think it’s worth a try. I consider myself a risk-taker because I know I would regret it if I didn’t take that leap. That dread of feeling regret inspires me every time.
Contact Info:
- Email: candleluxcompany@gmail.com
- Website: candleluxco.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/candleluxco/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/CandleLuxCo?s=20
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@candleluxco?lang=en
