Smells like... Kilig
I’m obsessed with candles, and Kilig Candle Co just so happens to be a local, woman owned company making waves in the candle game.
What is your name + what is your business
Hi! My name is Sean and I'm the founder of Kilig Candle Co.
What is your business all about
For years I've always been a big fan and consumer of candles! One day I started to do some research on the sustainability of candles and what goes into making them. I was shocked that a lot of larger candle retailers were using unsafe products such as paraffin wax which releases toxins and carcinogens into the air along with wicks that contained lead. When reading this, I decided that I was going to create a candle that was as eco-friendly as possible without having to give up the ambiance or scent that most great candles possess. After a lot of testing and more research, I was able to create Kilig Candle Co. All of our candles come in recyclable glass jars, use 100% soy wax which is clean burning, lead-free cotton wicks, and phthalate-free essential oils and fragrance oils.
I'm also half-Filipino and wanted to incorporate my heritage into my company by using Tagalog words for my brand name and the names of my candles. Kilig has always been my favourite word in Tagalog and encompasses the feeling of when you have butterflies in your tummy from love or excitement!
From Passion To Business
When I started my business it was definitely just a hobby. I've always been crafty and loved making things so it was a great outlet for me to keep busy. I think the moment I realized that I had a lot of passion for making my candles was when people other than my family and friends were telling me how much they loved them.
Every time someone DM's or emails me to tell me their favourite scent or how much they're loving the candle that they're currently burning, it makes my day. Getting to create something that people love makes me passionate about my business.
How did you start building your business
Instagram!
It's been the best tool for me so far. I find it's a great way to showcase what I'm doing as well as communicating with my customers and followers. Instagram has gotten me into all of my current retailers along with other opportunities such as events, markets and pop-ups. I can't stress enough how important putting yourself out there on social media is for businesses that are just starting up.
From the events and pop-ups that I've done from Instagram, I've also been able to make a lot of business connections and even make friends with other small business owners. There's so much out there once you start connecting.
In the future, I hope to expand the brand and create more candles for everyone to enjoy. As for now, I'm grateful to be here!
Don’t forget to check out Kilig Candle Co.
Thanks for reading + virtually hanging with Sean + I! Xx