Through Every Season: The Heart Behind Luminate 365

Running a business isn’t just a job. It’s a journey. And when that business is a candle business, the seasons don’t just mark changes in the weather; they mirror the highs and lows of the work itself.

There are the good days, when the ideas flow effortlessly, when the colors, scents, and designs all come together exactly how I imagined. Those days are filled with excitement, pride, and that deep spark of creativity that makes me remember exactly why I started Luminate 365. It’s the thrill of preparing for an event, packing up my candles, arranging them just right, and imagining the faces of the people who will stop by my table. It’s the conversations I get to have with strangers who become customers, and sometimes even friends, as we talk about my candles and the story behind them. I love hearing what draws them in, whether it’s a scent that reminds them of home, a color that matches their space perfectly, or a shape that simply makes them smile.

There’s nothing quite like getting those special requests, where someone trusts me to create something unique just for them. And then there’s the moment, the one that never gets old, when someone decides to buy a candle. That little smile, that spark of excitement as they hold it in their hands, is the kind of joy that keeps me going long after the event is over.

Then there are the harder days. Days when sales are slow, when an idea doesn’t turn out the way I planned, or when I feel like the light has dimmed a little. Sometimes those seasons last longer than I’d like. The feeling of failure can linger, whispering doubts into your mind. But even in those moments, I keep going, because I love what I do. I believe in my work, in the beauty and purpose behind every candle, and in the creativity that fuels it all.

I wouldn’t be able to keep that flame burning without the people who stand beside me. My sister Hettie, who has been a constant source of encouragement. My children, Moni, Zach, and my not so little baby Lars (who creates my videos with so much talent and care). My beautiful, creative niece, Kalila, who helps bring my vision to life through her words in our marketing descriptions. My very good friend Dwan who has been like my personal cheerleader from the beginning. Your love, belief, and support mean more than you’ll ever know.

Luminate 365 is here to stay. This is more than just a business to me. It’s a piece of my heart, and I will always remember those who believed in me from the very beginning. Through every season, I will keep creating, keep learning, and keep shining.