1. What’s your name & Your Company Name: My name is Rev. Amanda Darlage. My company name is Mystic Paths.
2. Why did you decide to go into business? What was your motivation? How long have you been in business? I went into business for several reasons. One, I wanted something that was mine, that I could grow and would give me pride. Two, there are no shops where I live that offered these products where I live, and the nearest ones were an hour away but mostly sold mass produced (and often tacky) goods. I was looking for authentic, hand-made items, not a bunch of resin-cast items with a weird predilection for putting skulls everywhere, or other things that conform to stereotypes. Three, I wanted a way to meet other like-minded individuals, as many where I live are still largely underground because of the conservative nature of the town. Four, I wanted to put my education to work. I hold an associate’s degree in business and another in accounting. I did not have the capital to open a store but was offered the online store at a decent price. I also run booths at local events and have been in business for four years.
3. What products do you make and sell? A majority of the items I craft are the palm wax candles. I use essential oils for the scents instead of fragrances. I also put together different kinds of herbal kits and perform services, such as weddings & handfastings. I sell a variety of products, including gemstones, jewelry, home decor, and much more. I try to stay away from mass produced items; however, will order just about anything a customer wants. My favorites are the handmade products.
4. What are your business goals? One of my goals is to have as much of what I sell handcrafted and as little as possible manufactured by corporations. Currently, one of my biggest goals is to find an artist who can forge unique athames at an affordable price, something simple and true. Another of my goals is to eventually open a brick-and-mortar store where people can come in and meet. It wouldn’t just be a store, but a place of meeting, a place of learning and practice, a place where workshops can be held, or simply discussions over a cup of tea or coffee.
5. What are some products you use from Natures Garden? The products I use are mostly the essential oils and candle molds. I will use the fragrance oils upon request i.e. food scents.
Your Website: www.mysticpaths.net
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/MysticPaths
Twitter: http://twitter.com/Mystic_Paths
