Today we’d like to introduce you to Jo West.
Hi Jo, 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?
Badgerwick started in my family kitchen about a year ago when I moved back home in the pandemic. I had recently been laid off from work and had a bunch of extra time on my hands, so I started making candles! At first, they were only for my friends and family, but after some encouragement, I branched out and began creating candles to sell. As a self-proclaimed nerd, I wanted to have a business that reflected that aspect of me, so all my candles are inspired by fiction! Most recently, I’ve been working on a new line inspired by the popular Anime called “My Hero Academia.”
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Definitely not smooth at all! My biggest roadblock is actually myself. I struggle with anxiety and depression, which means that I sometimes become unmotivated and unable to put the work in, no matter how much I want to! If I’m being honest, some days in this crazy time, the only reason I get out of bed is to make an order that has to be shipped out that day. In a way, Badgerwick has done a lot to help me get through the last year.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
My candles are inspired by my favorite fictional media, which creates exciting candles for nerds such as myself! They also make great gifts!
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
I’ve always been interested in fiction, which definitely shows in my business now. I’m also known in my home community as a kind and caring person, which has always been my personality. My mom said that as long as she can remember, I’ve always tried to make people feel seen and cared about. So when she found out that I write to thank you notes to each of my buyers, she wasn’t surprised at all! I understand that on the other end of my candles’ journeys is another person who is trying to get through the turmoil of this pandemic, so anything I can do to brighten their day is worth it!
Contact Info:
- Email: badgerwick@gmail.com
- Website: etsy.com/shop/badgerwick, badgerwick-candle-co.tumblr.com
- Instagram: @badgerwick
- Facebook: @badgerwick
