Today we’d like to introduce you to Maya Barbery.
Hi Maya, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Born in Bolivia, I have lived in many places, including the U.S. and Asia. Hailing from a family of solitary witches, I have been a practicing pagan for over thirty years. My beautiful candles began eight years ago as gifts for my practice. In 2022, seeing a market need for candles for specific intentions, I turned my candle-making into a bit of business. In 2023, I added items from Bolivia, incorporating metaphysical elements and handmade decorations for altars and homes. I also added Celtic magic, in honor of my father’s Cornish heritage, and Asian magic taught to me while I lived there.
Can you talk to us about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned? Looking back, has it been easy or smooth in retrospect?
No road to entrepreneurship is 100% smooth. Mainly, it was finding the right niche to market the candles and other metaphysical products. Through trial and error of trying different locations and artisan markets, I have found the right mix of markets, local shops that allow me to rent space to display and sell my candles and other goods, as well as deciding to create a website that will launch mid-March.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
The most popular item is my collection of 14 intention candles. These are made in small batches (30 at a time) using organic soy wax. I then add genuine crystals and herbs to infuse the specific intention into each candle. Crystals are chosen for their metaphysical properties, and herbs are chosen for their properties. The color and scent also play a role in the intentions set for each candle. I take my time with each batch to slowly speak the intentions into the wax as it melts and then as I pour and add all the embellishments. I have many return clients!
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those just starting.
My advice: Always continue learning your niche and ways to improve; in the 8 years I have made the candles, I have had a few different versions as I have tested new techniques and materials and am looking to improve continually. Don’t second guess your dreams! If you create something (product or service) because you like it or see a need, go for it, as others will need what you offer!
The one thing I wish I had known is to treat it like a business from the start. Track your material usage and product sales to see what you need to continue making or discontinue.
Pricing:
- Base the pricing on the raw material and the time it takes you to make it.
- Compare your pricing to similar products and services to ensure you are competitive.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.angelsmysticalartifacts.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/AngelsMysticalArtifacts
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AngelsMysticalArtifacts
Image Credits
Pictures by Maya Barbery
