We had the good fortune of connecting with Amber Jaynes and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Amber, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Honestly, I still can’t believe Lite Brite Candles has turned into a business!
I have always enjoyed making crafts and DIY projects, so four years ago when I went online to purchase a candle making kit, I thought it was going to just be that – another craft. While I waited to receive my shipment, I started researching the ins and outs of candles and was blown away by some of its complexities. By the time I received the package, I knew it was going to be more than a craft and was already brainstorming ideas for a company name, candle names, scents, etc. I quickly began purchases better products (after the kit was a dud) and experimenting with different scents, branding, etc.. Fast forward two years, I decided to finally go “all in” and become an LLC in 2022.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
At Lite Brite Candles, my goal is to make natural and engaging scented candles for the vibe and ambiance customers are looking for.

With candles being a saturated market, that you can buy almost anywhere, it can be difficult to create a product that stands out or that would entice a customer to purchase from me versus something “cheaper” from a box store.

However, I’m proud that my products are hand made in small batches, from the candle pours to individually cutting the labels. My products never have added boosters or chemicals – and customers notice the difference (in a good way)!

Building Lite Brite Candles as a business has allowed for far more creativity than I ever knew it would, because it’s not just about pouring candles. From branding, building and designing a website, creating label designs, scent blends, testing, managing social media, product research, keeping up with the seasons, etc. – while insanely overwhelming at times, the opportunities to learn and grow have seemed endless.

I will forever cheers to those who have started a business, no matter how big or small!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’d be a terrible tour guide – lol! I usually just know where I’m going, have a general idea of what I want to do, and figure out the rest in the moment!

“The best time ever” looks way different than 10-15 years ago. And if they’re my “best friend,” then they enjoy the simplicity of relaxing on a lake or in the mountains somewhere like me.

So, we’d definitely head North, book an Air B&B to enjoy wine country. Find some great hikes and google (haha) some places to eat in the area. The “best times” are the impromptu ideas and whatever fun along the way! Corny, I know.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My family and friends deserve all the shoutouts! From late nights and many hours working in the office, to asking for endless opinions and feedback, hours of candle testing performed by friends and family, purchasing from me, spreading the word – I could go on and on. My family and friends have supported me and my random business venture from the beginning, and LBC would not even be an established business without them.

Along the way I’ve also met some fantastic small business owners who also help keep me going with their encouragement, sharing of knowledge, and events. Whether it’s a fellow candle maker or another business, the community I have found and have become a part of the last couple of years also deserve so much credit! We can recognize that we have more in common than differences; we try to be positive and support each other to keep going.

Website: https://www.litebritecandles.com

Instagram: @litebritecandles

Image Credits
Alli Lewis

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutArizona is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.