Today we’d like to introduce you to Tom Cullipher.
Hi Tom, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I was on a business trip a few years back, flipping through channels in the hotel, and ended up watching Shark Tank. Something about seeing people pitch their ideas lit a fire under me (no pun intended). I kept thinking, “Why not me?”
I have always had the spirit of an entrepreneur and so I started my business as a side hustle in 2019. In 2020 I got furloughed from my corporate job and I decided to go full throttle with the candle business.
There have been many lessons and I have learned a lot throughout these 7 years of business. I am grateful for the oppurtunity this business has given me and the ability to be my own boss while creating unique products.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
With any business, there are ups, downs, and uncertainties. The candle market is competitive, so one of my biggest challenges has been finding ways to differentiate my brand and make my products stand out. I’ve focused heavily on quality, branding, and creating a unique customer experience.
Another challenge has been supply chain issues , for example, candle jars being on back order or certain fragrances being out of stock. Situations like that have taught me to plan ahead, build relationships with multiple vendors, and stay adaptable when things don’t go as expected.
As you know, we’re big fans of Southern Charm Candle Co. . For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Our candles are not only hand-poured but also handcrafted in small batches. What makes them unique are the toppers ( we call them embeds) that are handcrafted into every one of our candles. I am proud that they are not only aesthetically pleasing but because we use premium fragrances they smell as amazing as they look. Our slogan is “Capturing the Essence of the South” and we take a lot of pride in bringing that to life through our products.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://southerncharmcandleco.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/southerncharmcandle/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SouthernCharmCandleCompanySC
