Meet Monica, the creative mind behind Regal Embers Candle Co. With over a decade of experience in crafting and candle making, Monica brings sophistication and coziness to each hand-poured creation. Based in Monument, Colorado, she splits her time between making and her primary job as a dog groomer. Monica’s passion for handmade shines through in every aspect of her business. We learned more about Monica and Regal Embers Candle Co through a series of questions.
In your own words, introduce yourself:
To sum it up, I’m a single black woman who loves all sorts of stuff! I’m a part-time, professional dog groomer on the weekends, which I have been doing for over 10 years. I’m lucky I can afford to step back quite a bit from that job to work on my passion; crafting and candle making! I used to make candles and cold press soaps about eight years ago, which I exclusively sold on Etsy and at in-person markets. However, I had to pack up shop when I relocated to Colorado from North Carolina to be closer to my family. I dove back into candle making in 2022 but really started to take it seriously in late 2023.
I love to read (I’m a late bloomer to the audiobook phenomenon) and write when I have a chance. My ultimate dream is to be published one day, but that’s for another conversation!
I have two cats, Kylo and Rey, several tattoos, and I’m a complete anime, fantasy, and sci-fi freak! I also watch way too many movies and TV series.
Tell us more about how you got started:
I make premium hand-poured candles. Honestly, I do not remember how I got into it, but I think I used it as a procrastination vehicle when I should have been writing. I’m a horrible procrastinator, and I use crafts as my escape!
Do you make candles full-time?
My candle business is not my full-time job though I would love to make it so one day. I’m not a spring chicken, and grooming has done a number on my back and knees. I have another side business where I sell direct-to-film transfers, which is now just gaining traction. Ultimately, I would love to work from home exclusively. Definitely a dream!
How do you stay motivated?
I’m never short of ideas for new candle designs or anything, really. My little brain never rests! As you know, I’m a procrastinator, but to a point. When I know there is a way to elevate my business or inch closer to my dream of working from home (and no more grooming), I put my butt in the chair and get things done!
Describe your workspace:
I converted my entire dining room into a candle studio. I have used every corner and wall space for this venture. This is a better setup than my old studio, which I had in a corner of my master bedroom in my last house. I have another print studio upstairs in my office where I have my special printer for DTF transfers. I have a small 3-bedroom townhouse, and I use the space wisely! I have a computer within my TV’s eyesight, which I usually have running in the background. But I usually work downstairs to keep an eye on my cats and also access to the TV!
What does your day as a maker look like?
I’m still working hard on getting my Goimagine shop up and running, as well as my own website (powered by goimagine). I work a lot on those tasks while filling orders when they come in, which can be heavy sometimes and light on other days. I love testing new scents, so I always make an excuse to test those, especially when my wax melters are hot and running (save on energy). But when not grooming, I usually improve my online presence, fulfill orders, and create new candle designs!
Can you explain your creative process?
My creative process is never the same, to be honest. I have ideas that come up at random times, and I try to write them down. Sometimes I’m successful, at times I’m not. But I’m always researching what is popular within my candle niche (which is apothecary/cottagecore designs), or how I can expand out of my niche to find relatable designs I could incorporate into my business. Soon, I will launch a new Bookish collection, which is taking longer than I thought. For me, it really starts with research first to ensure that what I make has a chance to “make it” in a very saturated market. Design can take me a bit, as I’m a perfectionist.
This can be a blessing and a curse. It takes me quite some time to finalize a design, but I test, test, test until my final design is what I imagined it to be.
What is your favorite product to make?
I love making wax melts. They take fewer steps to make a final product, and they are easier to pack and ship. This is my first time selling wax melts; it is the best business decision I have made thus far!
What is your most popular product?
Currently, the most popular product I sell is a custom birth flower candle. A customer can provide a name and birthdate, which is added to the candle label. It is very personalized and makes a wonderful gift for a loved one!
Why did you choose to open a shop on goimagine?
I wanted to diversify my business in the places where I sell my candles and wax melts, and Goimagine seemed like a wonderful fit. And the fact that all their proceeds are donated to charities was a no-brainer! I will say since I have joined, I have enjoyed the interactions I have had with other sellers and the co-founders of the organization! My involvement was the second-best decision I have made thus far. I can’t wait to see how GoImagine grows in 2024!
Where can we find Regal Embers Candle Co?
Shop: goimagine.com/regalemberscandleco – For a limited time, use coupon code CHECKOUTREGALEMBERS for a 10% off discount at checkout!
Social Media:
Instagram: @RegalEmbersCandles
Facebook: @RegalEmbersCandles
TikTok: @RegalEmbersCandles
Pinterest: @RegalEmbersCandles
Stephanie is naturally creative and is passionate about art, design, and everything handmade. She has always enjoyed exploring new techniques and trends in the handmade industry and has channeled this into her role as the Creative Director and co-founder of goimagine. Through her love for creating, she has successfully sold her unique wares, which range from fine art to simple crafts, in both online and in-person markets.