Inspiring Conversations with Emma English of Brockman Botanicals

Today we’d like to introduce you to Emma English.

Hi Emma, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Before starting Brockman Botanicals, I was exploring new ways to get out of my comfort zone and find a creative hobby. My career in Data Science and Mathematics has always allowed for creative problem-solving, but I was still missing the feeling of creating something beautiful with my own two hands.

That’s when I discovered my passion for candle making. I loved the logic and science behind it — finding the ideal ratio of wax to fragrance to create the perfect candle. I also loved just how creative I could be as I started playing around with creating unique and intricate candles. My partner and I decided to open Brockman Botanicals as a way to share my passion with others.

Can you talk to us about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Transitioning from a hobby to a business was a lot more challenging than I anticipated. In addition to being a candle maker, I had to become a product photographer, website designer, packaging expert, and accountant. The learning curve was steep, and I’m still learning more as I go, but it was all so worth it.

A challenge that I’m always mindful of is being very intentional about continuing to create for myself, not just for my business. Keeping that top of mind has allowed me to maintain my hobby and passion without getting bogged down by the ins and outs of running a business.

As you know, we’re big fans of Brockman Botanicals. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Brockman Botanicals is a candle company specializing in handcrafted natural soy candles. We use 100% soy wax, all-natural cotton wicks, and high-quality, clean fragrance oil. Each candle is a unique work of art — topped with a hand-placed floral design to create a one-of-a-kind bouquet.

Our candles are available at our online storefront, brockmanbotanicals.com, as well as at the lovely Irie by Nature Blooms in Conifer. In addition to the candles we have available online, we also accept custom bulk orders by request for specific sizes or scents not typically offered.

We’d love to hear about how you think about risk-taking.
I think if you’re willing to leap to become a small business owner, you have to be a risk-taker to a certain extent. The unknowns and curveballs that come with owning a business are not for the faint of heart and are certainly anxiety-inducing for people who are typically risk-averse.

I live by the motto that with great risk comes great reward — as long as the risk is well-thought-out. Trusting yourself to make educated decisions to mitigate unnecessary risk allows one to have more confidence when the time comes to take a leap of faith.

Pricing:

• 16oz Candle — $45

Contact Info:

• Website: brockmanbotanicals.com
• Instagram: @brockman.botanicals