Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in candle-making but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Edlisha Shelton-Johnson, Founder of Sunshine Shish, located in Orlando, FL, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

Sunshine Shish, my brand, creates luxury scented candles to enrich your living space. Each candle is carefully curated with the finest quality materials for durability. I created this brand for those who are learning to prioritize their self-care. The importance of self-care for the mind, body, and overall wellness.

Tell us about yourself

I am Lisha SJ, and I am the founder of Sunshine Shish. In 2019 working at a call center, I wanted out real bad, so during the training process of the job, I started pondering and writing out what are the things I love to do. I prayed about it. Since middle school, I have always been genuine and wanted to inspire others. Where I would compliment, motivate and encourage my peers in their situations. So I wrote out everything I enjoy. since I was 16yrs young, I knew I was meant to do greater things than having a business and having the freedom that an entrepreneur has. Scented Candles are the very thing I enjoy on any day, the experience of the shopping process, smelling different scents, the designs of the vessels, and the labels how well coordinated with the vibe of the candle. What motivates me most is making a stamp within my family so that they can be creators and follow their passions too. The most satisfying is how each candle of Sunshine Shish that is curated makes a positive impact on each of our customers and their living spaces, inviting love, self-care, and wellness into their homes.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

The biggest accomplishment I am most proud of is pivoting in the last two years; after exploring where I could provide the most value to my customers, I went from crickets to a consistently growing business, and for this, I am thankful. I had to relaunch and rebrand Sunshine Shish. Learning & refined marketing techniques that I know will fulfill our purpose to help others. I am looking forward to growing a team.

What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?

One of the hardest things to face in business would be the unknown of how the market changes, so some months you may meet your financial goals, and some months you may have to adjust.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

  1. (Start)-Take action; learn as you grow.
  2. (Run)- Be consistent and mindful that you are the face of your brand.
  3. (Grow)- pay attention to your customers' concerns and wants, and pivot when necessary.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Focus on everything you have to gain; your mindset will show up in every area o your business.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.sunshineshish.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Sunshineshishcandles/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunshineshishcandles/


If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

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