Maker Spotlight: Next Top Maker Runners-Up
We checked in with the runners-up of our Next Top Maker contest and let’s just say they are living it upppp!
After weeks of receiving some of the most breathtaking NTM submissions, our eyes and hearts were opened to incredible stories of brands building their dream. The candle making business has an amazing community of makers that we are so lucky to see in action!
Check out what these talented artists are up to and what they listen to while they make.
best createful video/photo: glo through it
What was it like to enter NTM?
Entering NTM was exciting and terrifying at the same time! I’ve fallen in love with candle making and turning it into a business over the past year, but in no way do I feel like a pro just yet! I was just really happy to share my story. Since joining the candle maker community, I’ve learned everyone is incredibly creative and passionate and I’m just really glad to be a part of it.
What advice do you have for makers?
My advice for Makers is to have fun with fragrances and to be creative! There are so many cool twists you can put in your own candles to make them unique! There are also many tips and tricks that you can learn from fellow Makers so never be afraid to reach out or to share what you’ve learned along the way.
What are you working on now?
Right now I am working on growing my wholesale business! I really want to be in more stores this upcoming holiday season, so I’m focused on streamlining the process. I’m excited to grow my business right now and will be focused on making the best products I can.
What are your plans for the summer?
My plans for this summer are to take a two-week trip to Italy! I’m always really inspired when I travel and I hope to return with new ideas for my business! And then it’s lots of hard work and prepping for fall!
What song/station are you listening to while you make?
Beyoncé. All day long.
most inspiring story: ivey + allen candle co.
What was it like to enter NTM?
It was overwhelming at first seeing all of the amazing entries we had to compete against. But as we went through the process, it was a great reminder of why we started making and helped us hone in on our future goals.
What advice do you have for makers?
Don't lose sight of your passion for pursuing profits. The business side is important, but creativity and crafting is what fuels us to keep going.
What are you working on now?
We are working hard to expand our product lines by introducing 3 new self-care candles in our "Be Well " Collection and rolling out a line of bathroom candles called "Courtesy Flush.” We are also launching a monthly subscription plan to make it easier for some of our repeat customers to stay stocked up on candles.
What are your plans for the summer?
Traveling, wedding planning, mastering FB Ads *fingers crossed* and of course, making!
What song/station are you listening to while you make?
Usually something from our I+A Spotify playlists - "Happiness Over Everything" or "Grippin Wood Wheel.” It depends on the mood, but we never make a playlist or listen to a station without a little bit of Outkast and/or UGK *wink*.
best start-up: blowme candle co.
What was it like to enter NTM?
It was so fun doing NTM! It really got me to open up about my story and why I do what I do!
What advice do you have for makers?
Don’t stop believinggggg! *in my best Journey singing voice*
What are you working on now?
Opening up my brick and mortar here in Santa Monica! It’s all so unreal. Plus I have the lovely pleasure of carrying other small business’ products as well!
What are your plans for the summer?
To keep pumping out these candles and continue to grow as a brand. Lots of projects in store but I can’t spill any secrets yet.
What song/station are you listening to while you make?
This is so hard because music genres depend on my mood — I listen to it all. Though, anything from the 60’s & French music are two of my go-to’s.
best createful brand vision: emme essentials
What was it like to enter NTM?
Eye opening! We always knew what our mission was, but entering the NTM contest gave us the opportunity to write down our purpose and align our values.
What advice do you have for makers?
Everyone's journey and path to success is going to look different! The only way you fail is by giving up.
What are you working on now?
Finalizing our summer collection and our first pop-up!
What are your plans for the summer?
Making candles :) and a tropical vacation for more inspo.
What song/station are you listening to while you make?
Sometimes we listen to Bay Area artists to remind us of home, sometimes we listen to today's top hits to stay up to date with current trends.
check out the next top maker winner
If you’re interested in what the NTM winner is up to, check out her blog here - Next Top Maker Spotlight: Lex at Vibes Candles
NTM never disappoints with all the stories that get shared and brands that continue to build. If you didn’t enter this year and are thinking about it next year, do it! There’s no telling where the experience may lead you, and we’re so pumped to see and share your maker talents!
Stay tuned for more NTM segments and fun collaborations down the road on our Instagram and tag us @makesy so we can share your creations!
Happy making!
