Today we’d like to introduce you to Caitlan McMullen.
Hi Caitlan, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
In the summer of 2020, I worked for a kombucha and cold brew company based in Ocean Beach. I had always wanted to try making candles and just decided there was no time like the present. I bought some basic supplies online and gave it a go. Having absolutely no prior knowledge of candle making it truly was a miracle my first batch came out perfectly. The rewarding feeling that the first batch of candles gave me was the best I had felt in a long time, and I knew I had to continue to pursue my crafting dreams. I dove in head first and started on a path of self-education by watching videos, reading books, and researching candle-making in every way I could. During those candle searches online, I stumbled across polymer clay jewelry making and was instantly intrigued. I bought some supplies and decided to try it out. Fast forward a few months, I decided to quit my job and pursue crafting full-time, which is how Flower + Flame was born.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Owning and running a small business has been one of the most rewarding yet challenging things I have ever done. The best way I know to describe it is an emotional rollercoaster. I get these high highs where I am on top of the world and so proud and humbled by what I have created and accomplished. But along with those high highs come the LOW lows, where I just feel like an absolute failure and like I have taken the completely wrong path with my business, which in turn makes me question my entire life. So, for me, the biggest struggle has been learning how to navigate through all the ups and downs and find a way to push through to the other side and continue to pursue my dreams.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I hand-make jewelry from clay, crystals, beads, stones, wire, and more. When it comes to jewelry you name it and I want to try it! I love making jewelry so much that I truly believe there is no end-there will never be a day that I have tried enough or learned enough, I will always want to learn more.
I also make hand-poured 100% soy wax candles & home fragrances and am getting into some home decor and home accessories too.
I am most proud of making it as far as I have. As I mentioned, it’s an emotional rollercoaster to own and run a small business and it is not for the faint of heart. I am proud that I haven’t given up. There have been MANY days I have thought of throwing in the towel, and I am proud that I have pushed through those tough days to continue to pursue this dream of mine.
What do you think about happiness?
Well of course making jewelry, candles, and crafting brings me happiness and joy. Spending time with my loved ones and my fur babies. Those two things are what bring me the most happiness in the world.
When I’m crafting, I get to quiet the world and just focus on something that I love. Making candles and jewelry has truly brought me through some tough times and I am so grateful to have a creative outlet.
My family and my dogs are such a big part of my life. Life is so short and I can’t stress the importance of making time for your loved ones enough. We have so much fun together, we laugh, we cry, and we make fun of each other (in a loving way of course). Without the love and support of my family, I never would be where I am today.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.shopflowerandflame.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shopflowerandflame/
