A space for women business owners to share.

AshMeyer's Friends

Profile Information

If you are in business, what is the name of your business?: The Wildfire: Gifts and Decor

Where did you get your idea for your business or the business you'd like to start?: It started out as a hobby. I'm a stay-at-home mom and my husband bought me the equipment as a way to pass the time. I received such great feedback and had people wanting to buy them from me. That is how my hobby became my obsession, lol.

If you already have a website, what is the address for your business?: http://www.thewildfire.etsy.com

How long have you been in business? (Or when do you plan to open?): Officially online since Oct. 12th 2007

Describe your product or service, or the product you plan to introduce to the market.: Unique, handcrafted candles. Then I plan to add candle accessories and other home decor.

How did you (or plan to) fund your business startup?: personal savings, friends and family

What was (is) the biggest hurdle in getting your business off the ground?: Finally saying no to family and friends. I kept giving away and discounting candles. I was happy to do it and will continue to give gifts. But I needed to know when to say enough is enough.

What would you advise other women interested in starting a similar business?: Network and promote! Candle making is nothing new; Be unique and get your name out there. (which is something I'm still working at)

Are you willing to answer questions from other women business owners about your business?: Yes

AshMeyer has not received any gifts yet

Be sure to check out: The Handmade Goods Group!!

At 4:11pm on September 3, 2007, Kimberly Porrazzo said…: Welcome Ashley! I stayed home for nearly 15 years to raise my two sons who are now 19 and 21. It was worth every moment, however, I also dabbled in this or that to make a few extra bucks. Today, your options for a home-based business are much more doeable. My advice... gather as many "friends" on this network as you are able (click on their profiles and click on the tab that lets you send a friend request to them. Then, start asking questions. Diana Todaro started a cookie business from her home and took it international. She's now an attorney. She might answer a few legal questions for you. What I've found, and the reason I started this site, is that women are extremely willing to help other women when it comes to business ideas. Perhaps you make a particular candle and offer it, by adding a photo to your page, and call it the "success" candle (or something like that). You might get some orders! Anyway, welcome. How did you find about our site?

At 6:19pm on September 3, 2007, Crystal Mitchell said…: Hi,
Glad you're here. Looks like you're off to a great start!
Crystal

At 6:59am on September 5, 2007, Carrie Sommer said…: Hi Ashley! Thanks for stopping by my page and your nice comments! My necklace is actually a vintage brooch that another indie designer made into a necklace for me. She does incredible work - www.moodswingstudio.com.

Best of luck to you as you embark on this great journey!

At 1:41pm on September 6, 2007, !Spring said…: Hi there! I have seen a lot of candles and yours are lovely, I think you will have much success! I am wondering where you are planing to sell online?

At 8:08pm on September 13, 2007, samara white said…: You certainly should get yourself a shop on etsy, it's fun!

At 8:52am on September 18, 2007, samara white said…: That's so exciting, please do send me a link. If you have any questions I'll try my best to help. I wouldn't worry too much about the fee, still way cheaper than wholesaling or consignment ;)

At 9:51am on September 26, 2007, Holly said…: You have some really unique candles! How long do they take you to make?

At 11:38am on November 28, 2007, Gabrielle said…: Hi Ash,

Thanks for the well wishes.

Your candles are amazing. I am moving in 2 months and I will definitely need to place an order with you. The black and white floral black cherry set are my absolute fave.

Keep up the great work.