Meet Christine Wilson | Multi-passionate solopreneur

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

Hi Christine, why did you pursue a creative career?
It was after a period of tremendous challenges, including a health diagnosis, that I had an “Awakening”. It became my passion to encourage and support others during times of hardship, and this is what ignited Reignite Candle Company. Through the process of repurposing glass to use for the containers and using clean ingredients, Reignite became a vessel of providing light to aid in transformation, hope, and healing.

What should our readers know about your business?
As a bookkeeper by trade, making the transition to a product based business has been more difficult than I imagined it would be. Rather than looking at things from the back-end, I am wearing all of the hats necessary to operate a business. Social media, marketing, developing and producing products, selling, managing the website, bookkeeping, taxes, and everything in between, is so much more than it appears. I am grateful to have a business background. I have watched endless videos, trainings, listened to podcasts, read books, experimented, bought too many supplies, bought too few supplies, and more.

I had an idea in my head, and although there is a market for it, I was surprised that the market is different from what I anticipated. Looking back, I would have secured wholesale customers prior to production and that would have enabled the company to grow the brand more quickly and sustainably. I also would have ordered smaller quantities of potential product offerings, to avoid waste. It is also important to consider the feedback from customers, as in the end, the customers determine if you stay in business.

The Reignite Candle Company brand is one of triumph over circumstance, growth, and transformation. Although the process has been challenging, it has been therapeutic and rewarding, and I am so grateful to have the opportunity to use my creative side while also preserving the Earth’s resources.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
The area I live is rural, but it’s a short drive to great outdoor activities and bigger cities. We would definitely start our first day locally with a latte at Cafe Belay. There are some nice nature walks and hikes close by, so that would be a likely activity. One day would be spent in Salida, having lunch at Amica’s Pizza and shopping at the local shops. Then, onto Mount Princeton for a day, soaking in the natural hot springs and maybe another hike. Day 3 would be spent in Buena Vista, visiting the shops and of course, coffee at The Midland Stop. Depending on the time of year, we could go whitewater rafting or snowshoeing. The next day, we would head into Leadville for kayaking on the lake. Colorado Springs would be on the list for sure. Garden of the Gods is a wonderful landmark for scenic drives, hikes, photography, and picnics. After that, Frankly Coffee for an afternoon pick-me-up, and dinner with live music on the West Side. The last day would be reserved for pampering massage and pedicures in Denver, and if time allows, a trip to the botanical gardens. (It would definitely include a tea house or coffee shop…Yes, I might have a little passion there too!)

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would never be where I am without the love and ongoing support of my family. Over the years, I have had multiple business ideas and side ventures, and my family has greeted them all with open arms. My husband works tirelessly to support the household, so I can pursue my dreams. My daughters and sisters offer an outlet, support, assistance with social media, help promoting events and developing products, and even directly with candle making tasks.

A local business owner, Nanci Kezar with Tailored West Boutique, has offered so much love and support, especially during trying times. I consider her my number one mentor! She believes in me and my product, even when I have doubts.

I have also attended multiple training programs through the local Small Business Development Center, as well as received some small grants, and that has been very helpful as a small business owner.

Website: https://www.reignitecandles.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reignitecandleco/