Today we’d like to introduce you to Carl Manners
Carl , we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I started Mbodi as a deeply personal project inspired by my older brother, who struggled with anger issues. I wanted to create something meaningful—an experience where he could light a candle, reflect on his emotions, and release them as he blew out the flame. It was about more than a product; it was about crafting a ritual for emotional acceptance.
The idea for paired playlists came naturally. Music has always been a shared love between us, so it felt right to incorporate it into the experience. For example, my Firey Fumes candle from the original Base Emotion Collection features some of the most intense and hard-hitting songs we could find—tracks that match the raw energy of anger.
Around the time I started Mbodi, my brother also began therapy. I like to think I played a small role in encouraging him to open up about his feelings, though, like most brothers, we don’t really discuss emotions outright. Still, the connection is there, and it’s something I hold close.
Today, I love pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with scent and sound, diving into emotions many shy away from addressing. My more serious collections are designed to create safe spaces for my customers to explore, validate, and begin to accept their feelings. These candles spark deep, meaningful conversations—not just about emotions but also about music, with both elements blending seamlessly.
What makes this journey even more special are the stories my customers share. With playlists backed by submissions from them, every market I attend and every sale online adds a new layer to Mbodi—a new story, a new artist, a whole new vibe. These moments continuously shape and evolve my candles, making each one as unique and personal as the people who light them.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Running a small business comes with its fair share of challenges! Something as simple as the weather can completely change a market turnout—and even with perfect conditions, there’s no guarantee people will show up. Despite these ups and downs, I’m incredibly lucky to have a strong support system. My family has been amazing, and my fiancée is, without a doubt, my biggest supporter. Whether she’s helping me pour candles, apply stickers, or sell at markets, I can always count on her to be by my side.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I create collections inspired by what’s happening in my life, staying true to my creative process. By doing so, I’m able to craft something genuine that resonates with others. I think of it like a musician—those who create music for themselves often end up producing timeless classics.
My specialty lies in being personable, which translates into a product that most customers truly love. This approach also makes every release special to me, with a deeper purpose behind each candle. Around town, I’m known as “Carl the Candle Guy,” and I have to admit, it has a nice ring to it!
I’m incredibly proud of my creations and believe my unique approach will allow me to thrive in this business for years to come. By pairing my work with support for local artists, I’ve carved out a niche that feels perfectly tailored to what I love and what makes Mbodi so distinctive. Also being in the ‘Live Music Capital of the World’ helps!
The crisis has affected us all in different ways. How has it affected you and any important lessons or epiphanies you can share with us?
The COVID-19 pandemic also played a major role in why I started my own company. After spending over two years applying for jobs, with over 400 different resume submissions, I came to a powerful realization—nothing in life is promised except the future you build for yourself.
Determined to take control, I took a seasonal job at Fanatics, working through the holidays and saving just enough to launch my own business. Since then, I haven’t looked back. COVID-19 taught me a valuable lesson: the only certainty is what you create with your own hands.
Pricing:
- 3 Oz Candles $15 – 18+ hour burn
- 6 Oz Candles $25 – 40+ hour burn
- 16 Oz $40 – 100+ hour burn (soon to come)
Contact Info:
- Website: https://mbodicandles.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mbodicandles/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mbodicandles
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@mbodicandles
Image Credits
Dakota (my fiancée) – the one who is ALWAYS helping!
