Dudtcg1
Only 13 years old, Hart Main took the steps to starting his own company in 2010. His younger sister was selling some candles to raise money for school, and Hart was teasing her about their girly scents and the necessity of having more manly scented candles. That sparked a flame. Even though it began as only a joke, Hart Main got an idea for a potentially highly successful entrepreneurial idea. His mother encouraged him to pursue the prospects, which he followed through with originally just to raise money for a bike. As soon as the media picked up on it, his orders spiked! Even though his young age attracts some interest, it is mostly the unique idea of a more masculine candle that really got people’s business. His business savviness really shone, when he brainstormed so many new kinds, but in fear of spreading himself too thin, he chose to stick to the core scents. The candles are packaged in soup cans which opens a door for him to give to a food pantry. He donates all the soup from the cans there. He made the first 20,000 candles in their kitchen at home with his mother’s help, but in 2011, the candle manufacturing was moved to a rented warehouse space and hired people, specifically the developmentally disabled. The price began at $5 but as more expenses were involved and demand rose, he increased the price to $9.50. Within 5 years, the candles were being sold in 150 stores. Eventually, he began donating 75 cents per can to soup kitchens. Additionally, the candles were scented by a group of New Jersey perfumists. His sales added up to $260,000 in 2015. That year he started college at Kent State to study law. He said that year, “The business comes second to schoolwork.” This prioritized vision reveals even more of his driven character has made him successful, as he donated and focused on the goals ahead of him.
This idea is very different, I mean as a guy I actually do not mind more “girly” scents but I can see how some guys might enjoy it. In my mind mostly women buy candle-like products but having different options for the population is always a way to make money.
This is sweet! I have not purchased one of these candles, but I have seen them in little boutiques. I respect the fact that he is reusing soup cans as well as donating money for each purchase. Very smart idea and I like how now that he is in school, the business is coming second. Usually, I would think most entrepreneurs would be focused on making their products better or more known, but not him and he is studying law! Interesting stuff!