Today we’d like to introduce you to Genesis Wernham.
Hi Genesis, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My Story – Little Arrows Candle Co.
Little Arrows Candle Co. was born almost three years ago, shortly after I had my youngest son—my fourth boy. At the time, I was working from home as a daycare provider, running a small preschool, and navigating a wave of postpartum depression. I only took two weeks off after giving birth before diving right back into work. I’ve always loved staying busy, and I absolutely love being a mom—but I realized I hadn’t taken any time to truly care for myself.
One evening, I handed the baby to my husband and said, “I just need a little me time.” I ran a bath, hoping to unwind, and as I sank into the water, I thought, What could make this moment even better? The answer came easily—a candle. But I didn’t have one.
That small moment sparked something big. I called my mom, who lives in New York City, and asked her to come teach me how to make candles. Years ago, she used to make beautiful pillar candles, so she showed me the basics. From there, I became completely fascinated. I spent the next six months diving deep into the craft—learning through “YouTube University,” joining candle-making Facebook groups, and studying the science behind every ingredient, temperature, and wick.
Eventually, I perfected my first candle. I started making them for myself and a few friends, but before long, the word spread, and I was getting more and more orders. What began as a form of self-care grew into something far greater—a business built to encourage other moms to take time for themselves, too.
Every candle I pour is a reminder that self-care isn’t selfish—it’s essential. And that’s the heart behind Little Arrows Candle Co.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Running Little Arrows Candle Co. definitely hasn’t been easy—but it’s been incredibly rewarding. Little Arrows isn’t my full-time job yet, which makes things challenging at times. Balancing candle orders, my full-time job, being a wife, and being a mom to four boys can feel like a juggling act. Every small business owner knows the early years come with growing pains, and I’ve definitely felt that.
But honestly, while it’s a struggle, it’s also one of my greatest achievements. I get to do all the things I love, even if it means long nights and early mornings. Watching my progress over time keeps me motivated—from not knowing how to make a candle at all, to now understanding the full science behind it; from guessing which fragrances might sell, to creating best-selling blends customers can’t get enough of.
Of course, there have been lessons along the way—some scents didn’t sell as well as I hoped, or certain products like lotions and body butters performed differently than expected. But that’s the beauty of it. You live, you learn, and you grow. Each challenge helps me refine what I offer and move closer to building the business I’ve always dreamed of.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I actually started my journey in the arts long before candle making. I graduated with an AA in Creative Writing and Literature, where I focused on playwriting, film, and all things creative. I’ve always been drawn to the art world—it’s in my DNA. I grew up in New York City with an artistic mom who made just about everything you could imagine, and I was always right beside her helping. Between her creativity and growing up in a city filled with art, inspiration was everywhere.
Later, I went to school to major in Art with a minor in Education. I loved teaching little ones and imagined myself as an art teacher or even an art curator in a New York City gallery or museum. But life took a new direction when I met the love of my life and moved to Summerville, South Carolina.
For a while, my creative side expressed itself through painting—mostly oil on canvas. I sold a few pieces but found it hard to stay consistent while raising a young family. Then came Little Arrows Candle Co., and it felt like everything finally clicked. Candle making became the perfect blend of creativity, purpose, and peace for me. I found a passion that not only allowed me to create something beautiful but also to help others—especially moms—rediscover the importance of self-care.
Moms give so much of themselves to their families that they often forget to refill their own cup. Through Little Arrows Candle Co., I encourage women to slow down, breathe, and take a moment for themselves. I create candles and self-care products designed to transport you—to a memory, a peaceful place, or a feeling of calm. My hope is that when a mom lights one of my candles, she’s reminded of her worth, her strength, and her need for rest.
I’m known for creating candles that tell a story through scent—candles that invite you to reminisce, to feel peace, and to reconnect with yourself. From lotions and body butters to lip balms, body oils, and room sprays, each product is made with intention, love, and care.
What truly sets me apart is my heart behind the work. I pour my passion into everything I make, not just to sell a product, but to share a message: you deserve to feel cared for, refreshed, and renewed. My greatest joy is knowing that something I created can help someone else slow down, feel loved, and remember that God cares deeply for them, too.
How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
My biggest hope is that when people experience my products, they can feel the love and care that went into making them. Every candle, body butter, and spray is made with intention—and when someone chooses to share that with others, it truly means the world to me.
The best way to support Little Arrows Candle Co. is to share! Share through social media, tell a friend, send a text, or mention it in conversation. Spreading the word helps my small business reach new hearts and homes.
I also love connecting with other small business owners. I enjoy doing pop-ups, meeting new people, and collaborating with shops or creators who share the same passion for community and creativity. Whether it’s through wholesale partnerships, retail collaborations, or events, I’m always open to working together and supporting one another.
And honestly—engagement means everything to me. Follow along on social media, say hi when I post, and join in the conversation. I love responding and connecting personally with my customers and supporters. This isn’t just a business for me—it’s a community built on kindness, creativity, and care.
Pricing:
- Roll on perfume $14
- Car diffusers $11
- Candles vary from $16-39
- Wax melts $7 or buy 5 get one free
- Body butter and room/linen sprays $18
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.littlearrowscandle.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/littlearrowscandle
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1Xuy7o44nL/
