Compass Conversations: Flame + Arrow
The thing I love most about Katelyn is her wonderfully creative mind (she does her own product photos! Aren't they gorgeous?!) and she is dedicated to offering environmentally conscious products.
Each month, we'll take you on a journey through the unique stories, passions, and dreams that drive our local entrepreneurs. These are the stories behind the logos and social media posts, the spirited souls enriching our daily lives with their craft and dedication.
What inspired you to start your business?
In 2021, I made it a point to become more aware about what ingredients were in health and beauty products. In this deep-dive research, I learned that the candle industry is widely unregulated by the Food and Drug Administration.
I decided to combine my love for candles with my newfound interest in natural products, and that’s when Flame and Arrow was created.
Fun Fact: Flame resembles candles and Arrow is a play on my last name, Archer. I really enjoy the candle-pouring process and connecting with the community through this platform. I can now feel good about burning candles in my home and not worry about my family's health. I’m happy I can share that with others too!
How does your business contribute to the local community?
As a local business owner, my earned dollars are spent back in our community. I am able to shop with incredible small businesses, eat at locally owned restaurants, and register my children to play in county sports. I participate in a variety of locally hosted vendor shows.
The fees for these shows go to fundraisers or businesses in the community. I also really enjoy participating in and donating products for local raffles, school fundraisers, and benefits.
Can you share a memorable experience or success story related to your business?
I really value meeting people in the community or having the opportunity to create an exclusive line for a business. I always get super excited. I’ve had the opportunity to pour candles for Boonsboro Country Club’s golf and tennis shops, Old City Cemetery’s gift shop, and an exclusive bridal line at Bella Brides. It’s always a surreal feeling when someone says, “Oh Flame and Arrow, I’ve heard of you!”
What challenges have you faced in building your business, and how have you overcome them?
Candles are a saturated market and it can be hard to stand out, or even harder not to compare your brand, so really just staying consistent in my product and striving to give top-tier customer service. I also think it's valuable to provide knowledge and education surrounding the unique ingredients I use and the importance they play on not only our health but the long-term impact of the environment too.
What makes your business unique?
All of my products are hand-poured and hand-crafted. I also really pride myself on the ingredients that I chose. I use a unique, high-end blend of Coconut-Apricot wax. This wax blend is luxuriously smooth and offers a great scent throw while being environmentally sustainable and is ethically harvested.
This wax blend is made with renewable resources compared to soy which is typically genetically modified. All of the fragrance oils are naturally sourced versus
synthetically blended. They do not contain any mutagens, carcinogens, reproductive toxins, acute toxins, or organ toxins. All products are dye-free, allergy-friendly, and made with vegan-friendly ingredients making them unlikely to trigger allergies, asthma, or cause headaches.
What advice would you give to other small business owners who are just starting out?
I think it’s really easy to psych yourself out so step one is don't stop yourself from being great. Your mindset plays a huge part in your success. It’s important to have accountability, determination, and a willingness to put yourself out there. Surround yourself with an incredible network of people who believe in your idea or brand just as much as you.
How do you see your business evolving in the future?
I have big dreams for Flame and Arrow. I expect to see it in more retail locations throughout the region. I’m really pushing my e-commerce reach and putting Flame and Arrow in brick-and-mortar locations outside of Virginia.
I’m hoping this growth will help to fund another project that I’m really excited about. I think this project will be a great way to give back to the community, especially the small business community, and I’m excited to see that come to fruition.
Do you have a special message that you'd like to share with the community through this article?
Flame and Arrow sets out to craft luxurious aroma products that elevate everyday moments, without compromising on quality or affordability. Experience the difference today!
Comentarios