Betty's Only

5 Secrets to Success I Learned From a Craft Show

2013-09-22T16:00:00.002-04:00

5 Secrets to Success I Learned From a Craft Show

Labels for Betty's Only

2013-09-15T22:24:00.000-04:00

There are many things that need to be done and I am working toward handling them. For instance, I had a meeting with a photographer in reference to taking professional pictures of the candles. She also wants me to be in a few of the pictures. I'm shy, in case you didn't know that! Well, here are a few of the labels that I have made. They have the name of the candle and the fragrance too. Things are moving forward for Betty's Only! The only thing I can do is try.

I have been selling candles. As a matter of fact, I had to make some for church! Things are good. Once I have the photo shoot, I will move toward making a catalog. I haven't done anything with the website either. As a matter of fact, it's not up or running! Building Betty's Only is what I'm working on doing. It's a work in progress, but isn't life just that?

New Additions

2013-09-08T11:44:00.001-04:00

Been working on some additions to Betty's Only. Sugar scrubs and other products area in the making. Now with these there has to be labeling too.

I have the products, but lack the promotion! Things are always a work in progress! Have to believe in myself, before anyone else will!

More pictures and products to come! Plus, I've been selling candles! Tis the season! Sold some to Tanisha a life coach I know. Also, to my line sister for gifts. Making some for gifts for church and window decorations as well.

Things are happening! I have to work in promotion! And doing a craft slow. I've made $45 in a couple of days and there's still more to come.

It my take sometime, but correct labeling for the candles and the scrubs coming soon.

It's been allow, but thank you for reading! Suggestions, motivations are always welcome!

Betty's Only's New Brochure

2013-09-02T23:28:00.000-04:00

Checking out Vista Prints to see how much it will cost to get these printed. There is so much that I need to do, but don't seem to want or know how to get it together. Should have done a craft show so long ago. I have the website, but haven't done anything with it since I first built it. No promoting, little selling, no making, nothing. Do I expect Betty's Only to grow itself? Or am I just moving at a snails pace because I am lazy, afraid of failure, and trying to act like I don't know what needs to be done to get the ball rolling. Promotion, promotion, promotion. There's a need for my product, and I do believe in it. All that needs to be done is time and effort being put into the business. I can say that all day, but until it is actually done. Nothing will happen or work. There are orders to be filled, misunderstandings pertaining to orders, the whole nine.

I want Betty's Only to be so much more than it is today. The sad part is I know it can work. Enough of my going on and on, below is the new brochure as I stated before. Now to do something.

For the next few months, I will make holiday candles and baskets. In a previous post, I started to make scrubs with essential oils that's an aspect that I will do well for Betty's Only. Stick with me don't give up on me. Better yet, don't give up on myself. What I've realized is when it's time, it's time and things will be as they should.

New Additions

2013-07-09T15:59:00.001-04:00

Been doing much thinking here as of late! That is a good thing. As you know, I've been procrastinating in many areas of my life and Betty's Only is one of them. I am shy to a certain extent and don't want to put forth the efforts to promote as needed. All of that stops now.

Fragrances
Make my own fragrances and name them after jewels. Have at least 10 specific fragrances that are a mixture of the ones I have. This will allow for endless possibilities. Now to mix and remember what the mixtures are. I will start with 26 jewel names and that will be the fragrances that will go with the candles. No more nameless fragrances.

Body Scrubs
I made a body scrub out of sugar, lavender essential oil, food color, and almond oil. Very basic, but the end result is outstanding. Looking into selling that too. That is something different.

Labels
Now that I have the fragrances, there has to be labels made for the candles and body scrub. I know how they will look and when it's designed I will give you an example.

Really excited about the new things on the horizon for the company. Betty's Only will be alright. I have to put forth the effort to be successful!

Thank you for all of the growth and support, plus the belief in my products!

Candles for the Recital

2013-05-15T22:51:00.001-04:00

I felt bad for posting without any pictures. Reading, I know, but I love it! My point, here are some pictures of many of the candles going to the show. Plus, I posted it on Facebook and I never promote myself! That's too much, too much pressure!

Now, continue to make the candles. Been thinking about stepping out and introducing other products. Will have to wait and see.

With the candles, they have packaging, there's always room for improvement.

Personalized gift bags
Website functioning like it should
labels for jars
100 brochures

Continue to do right by the business and have fun while I do it. Have at minimum 50 candles at all times. Never know when someone will need some.

Moving Toward Good Things

2013-05-15T10:10:00.000-04:00

Started building www.bettysonly.com, my website for Betty's Only A Candle Company. Things have been moving forward. Selling candles for random occasions is always good. The website isn't completed, but is up and running. No, I haven't had a purchase via Betty's Only, but am looking forward to the first one.

I paid $85.00 to participate in two events here in the city, and messed one. I had a meeting and didn't prepare so I didn't do it. I didn't give myself an opportunity to get upset with myself, because ultimately, it was my fault. It's better to prepare than not.

Friday, May 17, Passion Works Dance Academy will host there dance recital and at that event I will be selling Betty's Only candles. So nervous, or embarrassed about this. A friend of mine is going to sit with me while I participate in this event.

There are a few things that I need to purchase before Friday's show.

Table clothes to display Betty's Only candles on the table. Table without coverage will look so bland.
Tape to hold the banner
gift bags

I believe that I have 50 plus candles. Tonight, I will sort out the total number per type of candle and the amount that I can make off of them. That will be my second time selling them at one of her events and period in a setting as such. Will get there early to set up and wait for the crowd. Going to stay because at the end, she wants to introduce me to the audience. Very, very shy I am, but looking forward to this event!

The Wedding is Over

2013-04-02T22:49:00.002-04:00

Finished the wedding candles. They were picked up this past Friday evening. I am very appreciative for being afforded the opportunity to make them for that event. That makes my second one. I made heart floaters, V-lites, and the favors for the reception. Good job!

Now, I am making candles that are just random. No order, colors that may not match, jewels, or different colors may be in them. I just enjoy making candles, it gives me peace and I love to see the finally product.

Also, working on the website using wix.com. Need to take pictues of all candles and put for sell on the site. There's an opportunity to sell some candles at an event. Trying to have at least 75-100 candles to sell.

Wonder where to find custom made bags. If I get the bags and have my logo printed on them. That would be another way to promote the business.

Making some progress with Betty's Only, not continue to order my steps and Betty's Only will continue grow.

Thank you for reading!

Betty's Only A Candle Company Supports Passion Works Dance Academy

2013-03-21T11:58:00.002-04:00

Betty's Only A Candle Company supports Passion Works Dance Academy

Currently, Betty's Only A Candle Company is creating a website to support the business. This video is to support Passion Works Dance Academy, half of the proceeds will go to Betty's Only and the other half to Passion Works. Thank you, Tamela Thompson!

Random Things are always Happening

2013-03-11T12:13:00.000-04:00

Candle making has been coming along well. Really haven't stopped making them. Since I made them for the dance team, I have been getting orders. I made several candles for Passion Works Dance Academy and Fort Service Learning's Dance Team, thank you Ms. Tamela Thompson. I do appreciate you trusting in Betty's Only A Candle Company. From those order, I am making candles for a wedding. Floaters, potpourri burners, and votives in navy and gold. I'm excited about this wedding, this is the first once since I made them for a friend so many years ago. Then the other day, a friend contacted me because she burned the ones I gave her as a gift, she purchased some too. I also was contacted via email because I posted some on Craigs List. She's interesed in Betty's Only A Candle Company and lives close by. Her interest are in tarts, I make the candle burner's, will check to see if they are the same.

My mother helps me too, she's always getting some from me for gifts and she gets orders too. For that I'm very appreciative.

Since I've been basically making orders, I haven't been just making candles. You know the ones that are in no specific design just something that came together. I truly love to make candles like that, the colors don't match and the fragrance doesn't necessarily do with the colors. I love it! She also asked about me having a boothe which I have never done that ever. So there are somethings that need to be addressed. I did make a banner for that purpose, but have yet to use it. Making a brochure is the next thing and continuing to make beautiful, fragrant, hand crafted candles. Or just printing the one that I have.

Things are moving in the right direction for Betty's Only, now just to be more open with the product. Push my Etsy site and continue to make the product better. It seems, promotion is the key. Make it consistent. There are things that I need in order to do better:

Bags with logo
business cards
brochure
do a craft show, have enough candles all different
promote Bettysonly.etsy.com

A Slow Progress Up

2012-12-21T09:07:00.001-05:00

Good morning,

The candle sells have been slow, but worth it. Yesterday, Ms. Thompson of Passion Works Dance Academy had a party for the dance team. A mother wanted to purchase some, I only had 9 with me, she bought all of them. This may be an oppurtiuty for me to sell more candles. It is great and I am so proud of myself. With Ms. Thompson's help, I have been able to get the candles out to the community with little effort. Words truly can't express how thankful I am. Plus, she did a showcase with the studio and I set up a table. It wasn't the prettiest thing, but my first time selling in a venue as such. We only sold 2 candles that evening, but it was completely worth it.

Betty's Only is moving forward and things are looking great. Now, I need to plan to get a website and sell at another venue. This is wonderful and I can't wait to see where things are going.

Betty's Only has been Doing Many Things

2012-12-09T16:58:00.000-05:00

Like my other blogs, I haven't posted in a long time. Somewhere along the way, I lost sight of what was important to me and the things that I found joy in. My personality is vibrant, but I am modest at the same time. I have never done I craft show, or sold them in bulk. I stepped out and asked a friend of mine would she be interested in a fundraiser to support her dancers and my candles. She agreed, so here we are today.

I have been making candles for the last few months and I am so proud to be able to say that. This is what I have always wanted to do. Sell my candles and give back to the community. Working with Tamela Thompson, has allowed me to do that. Passion Works Dance studio along with Fort Middle School Bellette's are selling Betty's Only Candles to support their teams. For this I am very thankful!

This has give me the boost I needed. I also made a banner out of the business card in case I do a craft show. As a matter of fact, I will sell same candles at Passion Works Winter Showcase. Again, I am so thankful, people come into your life for a reason and I receive it!

Looking to building a website to sell Betty's Only candles. Everything happens in due time, when the time is right and you are ready! I can' t explain it, things are moving forward and good things are happening. Going to ride this wave!

And It Begins Again

2011-11-11T19:33:00.001-05:00

Settled to some extents and I am starting to make candles again. I am somewhat excited and looking forward to the next steps in Betty's Only. There have been many changes in my life and it is time to be still. I have decided to really do something with this. Nothing beats a failure, but a try. So here it goes again. Over time, many people of been asking for candles, but I wasn't in a place to do anything.

The beginning of the month someone asked for 4 boxes of the 25 candles. Also, my mom box 30 of them @ $3. I didn't realize I had so many in stock. Still haven't come up with label ideas, but I have many match books. What I am thinking is to sell the candle with the match book and that can be the label. I am excited about making them again and I want to thank my friends that believe in my candle making! Let's see where I can take this. I will post pictures of the new candles.

Another thing about Betty's Only Candles is that they are mixed with a variety of fragrances. The hard part is keeping up with the mixture and coming up with a name for the candle.

Making Candles

2011-07-10T17:09:00.000-04:00

Making candles, have been on and off for a few months. There is a market on Saturdays here in the city, been thinking about getting a table. Have to invest in self in order to make some cash. I don't know how much the tables cost, but I can find out. Below are the things I need to do in order to make this work.

Table
Labels
pricing
banner with logo
Find out how much booth costs
Chair
Make up candle baskets

Let's see if I can make this work. I also need to see what and how I can make a candle website for the candles that I have on stock.

Noticed I may be afraid of success and this is filtering into many aspects of my life. There has to be something done for this to stop. Be back soon, will try not to stay away so long. Neglecting something that I am passionate about. I came up with a phrase for the company, I have to find it. Cheers!

Making a Come Back

2010-12-05T16:28:00.006-05:00

Betty's Only has been around for a long time. This is something that truly brings me joy. To be honest, in many aspects of my life I don't see my worth. I love making candles, I love to see my clients faces light up when they smell them. Being able to create something that can be used in a variety of ways makes me feel good deep inside.

I haven't made candles for real in a long time. They create a type of peace for me. Kinda making things slow down and gives me something to focus on that is not drama and chaotic.

This has been a really hard time for me, a really huge transistion. During this time, I have been asked about the candles. I even found all of my equipment. At my job, someone mentioned to some students that I knew how to make them. They asked me to make them three for their assignment. I did, so this is how I started making candles again. Thank you Mrs. Claiborne! If you hadn't have done that, the fire wouldn't have been lit to get this thing going again!

I bought some wax. This is what is looks like, I took it outside and broke it up. Beside it are the swirling towere and extended tepee molds. Trying to get the side room organized for candle making. Not complaining cause at least I can make them now.

There is a plan that I thought of. Don't really know how to put it in action though. What I am thinking is let people know that I am selling candles for $2-$4. This will give me a chance to promote them. Something of a welcome back.

I also told myself that I would do a craft show within the next 6 months to a year. Have at least $2,000 in profits. Candles sets, baskets, floaters, burners, candle holders too. Everything candle. Have to get on it! This is my life and I have to live it!
The swirling tower and extended tepee filled with wax.
The bar helps to hold the wick in place

The candles that were in the molds.

Must fill all of these molds.

Cooled wax to be placed in molds to give a marbled look.

Chipped wax, now to fill with another wax.

Filling the jars. A work in progress.

Trying to get the room organized. The candles are on the dryer. Work with me please. Slowly filling all the jars.

An addition to the first two. Burning heart, maybe I will make a gift set.

How Things Work

2010-11-26T17:44:00.004-05:00

Things work out so funny sometimes. Currently, I know longer work at Baker Middle School, now I am at Fort Middle. Mrs. Claiborne has bought candles from me before, she works with me. From time to time she would ask me about the candles. Of course, I would say I know I need to make some, give me a little time.

One day in my class, three girls came to me and asked if I could make them some candles. Before they asked, I was thinking how I could get the side room together where I could start back making them. The girls where doing an assignment for their ELA class and needed them. They wanted me to show them how to make them, but the time was too short. So, I made them four candles. They wanted them in Fort colors, but I didn't have any plain wax.

This is how I was forced to make candles. Things happen so strangely from time to time. I spent a little time in my side room and moved some things around. I can set up my hot plates and start making candles again. What I don't realize is this is a way for me to make a little extra money. As always, others see more in me than I do. That is sad!

When I get some money I am going to purchase some wax and make candles for the holidays. I have several jars that I will fill and sell them for $3.00 a piece, just to get rid of them.

I found some candles that are old so I decided to place them around the house. I am using them too. A friend said they make the house look more comfortable and warm. This is something that I love to do, just haven't been doing it.

What is Going on With Betty's Only

2009-09-27T17:26:00.005-04:00

Time hasn't permitted me to write here. Actually, I haven't made candles for a really long time. I just made some Friday evening. It was something to do. I have been thinking that it is time to stop playing and move forward with Betty's Only. This has been something that I have wanted to do, I just haven't put forth the time, money, and effort it takes to promote Betty's Only.

My domain name expired. It was reinstated the other day. I don't know how to log into my account to check my email. There is a vendor opportunity on Broadway, I think I am going to participate, I have sent an email to find out more information. I have been wanting to do an event, but I am scared. That is a mess. I know, but I just don't want to fail. How do I know if I will fail if I don't try? That is the main question.

Since I haven't been making candles for so long. I have decided to put some money toward Betty's Only. I need to get some more item to make Betty's Only better, it needs to be revamped. The website updated. I need to offer more types of candles, more items, and a variety of things. Promotion is the one thing that needs to be done.

Things Needed

more wicks for votives

jars (variety)

leveler

I am about to see this thing through. Betty's Only is my candle company and I want others to know. I do understand that I have to work to make it grow to what I know it can be. It is going to take me to take it to the next level. The way it is packaged now doesn't offer the fragrance. It does give me a way to display the business card, you can see what the candle looks like, and they are matches too.

I truly enjoy candles and I know that they can offer many things to individuals.

light a candle after a long days work and just relax

give them as gift ideas for any occasion

color coordinate them to fit in any setting

us them to light up a room

A Variety of Different Candles

Vessel of Aroma with Business Card

Jars I Bought at the Attic Sale for 25 cents.

I would upload more photos, but it keeps distorting my paragraphs. There is a change coming for the best tired of being mediocre. There is enough out there for everyone to prosper. Now it's my time.

I Really Don't Know What to Say

2009-04-19T13:50:00.003-04:00

Betty's Only has not had anything going on. Remember I had some candles on consignment. I didn't sell any candles there. I removed them in January. The place was not air conditioned, some of them started to melt. I had to change my formula. In the house I have many candles, but don't know what to do with them. I know I can sell that but the question is where and how do I go about doing that? I thought about the beer commercial, I make them and someone else sells them. I am somewhat at wits end. Betty's Only is about to expire. It has been up for one year and I haven't sold anything on it. Now, that is sad!

There have been some suggestions. For instance, contact big name brands and send some samples. Or send a few samples out just to get them out. I really don't know what to do. I just started back making candles about a week ago, that was my first time since December. I know.

I have the business cards, but don't pass them out. Ok, what I will do is make a card to put on the candle. I think my packaging will be a burlap bag with ribbon and a name tag. I think that is what I will do. I need help! I can make money, but I just don't know what to do to get them out there to the public eye.

I am making candles now. I have done this time and time again. Don't get me wrong, I have been selling candles, but not like I should. I will make 10 candles of each and at that point sell them so kind of way. There are so many things that need to be done, just a matter of handling it.

Happy Holidays and Enjoy your Time

2008-12-23T19:09:00.003-05:00

I haven't been here in a while. Things have been moving so fast, I can hardly keep up. I started coaching basketball at my job. That has taken time away from Betty's Only. To be honest, I haven't even checked my mail. Some things that are still in the working: brochure, pictures, magazine, online candle sells.

Candles have been sold, overall about $250.00 worth for the Holiday Season. About $750.00 short of my goal. Something is better than nothing right?

I am off unil January 5. I need to sort out my to do list for my break!

Below are some candle websites.

http://www.candlemaking.uk.com/

http://parentingteens.about.com/od/candlemaking/Candle_Making_Projects_and_Ideas_for_Candlemaking.htm

http://www.wicks-wax-scents.com/

Maybe these will help!

I was told that I am afraid of success. Maybe I am, I know I need to work hard for the things I want out of life. Why do I always sobatauge myself. Betty's Only has made many advances, I can't stop now. Keep watching, my growth wil be great!

Slowly Moving Forward, Even if it is Slow Forward Movement is Always Good

2008-11-27T11:37:00.003-05:00

I have been trying to send Tucan the information for the brochure and order form, but I keep running into problems. When I tried the first time she couldn't open up the information. The next few times the files where too large. I sent some information today, I just sent 3 pictures per email, this way the files wouldn't be too large and hopefully she will be able to open them. I need to look over what she emailed me in reference to what I need to send her. It is moving along and I am glad.

Overall, I think to build anything takes time and effort. I have the time and I am putting forth the effort.

Happy Thanksgiving All and have a wonderful day!

It is One of Those Times

2008-11-23T18:54:00.003-05:00

Greetings all,

There really hasn't been much going on with Betty's Only. My personal life has been on a go, that's probably why I haven't done much with the company. One thing I have accomplished is the labels for the candles. The fragrance is on the label now and I have my business cards. I have already reformatted the card to use front and back. Other than that it has been the same old thing. I am still working with Tucan to design my brochure and order form. I just paid for it last week, I haven't sent the necessary pictures to complete them. I apologize for the delay. I think that is what I will work on now. Life happens and then what?

I will send the pictures now via email and not as an attachment so this can get done. It will work itself out. I know it will. I am my biggest problem.

http://www.zionsvillecandlecompany.com/

http://www.ourowncandlecompany.com/orderform/index.php

https://www.drewcandle.com/osCommerce/index.htm

Encouragement Comes from Where You Least Expect It

2008-11-11T18:10:00.003-05:00

Today was somewhat a dramatic day. A car got stolen from my drive way with keys to the house on the key ring. Johnathan came over to change the locks for me. We hung out all day. He came into my candle room and started talking about how I have money just waiting to be made. That was crazy to me. I begin explaining that I have been making candles, but am not doing too well selling them. He said that the time now is to make candles and build inventory. I should have at least 1000 candles. At that point, the packaging should be right, and the process complete. Meaning, the website up and running (making sells), brochure, order form, professional photos, price list, and have done a couple of craft shows.

That entire conversation put much in perspective for me. I felt all warm and cozy inside. He also said that a beneficial part of my making candles is that I enjoy making them. I make them not to receive a profit. The profit will come later once the entire process is complete. I look forward to the growth and seeing how the company matures.

Thanks Johnathan, I really needed this encouragement and motivation. I am maturing and I am proud to be the owner and Creator of Betty's Only.

Thinking of My Process to Build Betty's Only

2008-11-08T21:27:00.004-05:00

Betty's Only must have a professional image consisting of coordinating gift bags, labels, business cards, tissue paper, price list, order form, match books, packaging, and there are some other things too. Reorganizing and growth is a great process that takes time and precision.

As of today, Betty's Only has sold $27 + $10 + $5 + $10 + $55 is $107. $893 to go until $1000 before January 1, 2008. I can do it. It's just a matter of getting them out to the public.

I will have more information on how my process will actually go.

Things need to get done:

Brochure
Order Form
Gift Bags
Labels with type of candle
Professional pictures
Secured website

Plans for Today

2008-11-05T14:09:00.003-05:00

Good Afternoon All,

Today, I have a meeting with someone pertaining to the overall development of Betty's Only. I look forward to what she may have to tell me to better my business. Currently, I have match books, business cards (ordered via Office Max 7-10 turn around), and a price list. In the works, a brochure and order form. Slowly, planting seeds for future growth.

This weekend there is a craft fair, due to me having candles on consignment I can participate for free. That is good, I have never done anything like that and I always wanted too. I have to contact the lady for this endeavor.

I am positive about what Betty's Only has to offer. I give myself 1 year to have things up and going. Believe and achieve is what I feel today. Planting seeds sometimes takes a long time to see the growth. There has been and will be growth for my company. I will not promise that I will stay positive because that is human. I am human, but I feel the company has much to offer. The candles are different, fragrant, long lasting, and made with love from me. What seems to be funny is that people purchase them and don't use them. Use them because that is what they are for.

I am ok now, how long it will last I don't know. Looking forward to my business meeting and building my company. Blood, sweat and tears will bring Betty's Only to the forefront of this industry. Professionalism is what I am to achieve. Stick with me and watch the growth.

As for the brochure and order form, having serious computer issues at home. I will tried to resend the information, but it failed to send. Problems, if that doesn't work again, I will put more photos here so they can be copied and pasted on my information. I may seem scattered and I know that about myself, but overall, I am making moves in a positive way and supporting myself and my business.

I have My Ups and Downs :(

2008-11-03T19:49:00.002-05:00

I should be happy, no, but not me. I did sell $37.00 worth of candles. A friend came yesterday and wants to incorporate the candles in with her bath salts. A great idea. I gave her $55.00 worth, so all in all, I have sold $92.00 worth of candles. I am very proud of Betty's Only for this accomplishment. I also have to make a V-Lite Sampler for someone.

The reason I say I have ups and downs is I feel I could be doing so much better, but that depends on the outside influences. I see others using the Internet to promote and I have even fallen for the antics, but no support. I am learning right now and there is still more to learn, but what am I doing wrong? What can I do to better the situation? I know, continue to move forward and keep my head up. Betty's Only needs to have a web presence and I really honestly don't know what it takes to get that done. I interact in Twitter, I leave comments on other blogs, I push the website. Still no online purchases, no comments, except from people that I told to do it.

My bad, I know, I just needed to clear my chest, because this is too much. $908.00 before the end of the year. In the process of having a brochure designed and an order form. Those that get orders for me will get a gift. I think I have 3 people that will take out the forms for me. I know was bad today, but I really needed to get this off of my chest.