Hosts: Melissa Lynn Oddo (deMelis Atelier & Stitched Collective) Matthew Banever (Bards Clothing)

Summary:

In this episode, we sit down with Haley, the creator behind Outbound Candle Co., to delve into the artistry, challenges, and joy of building a small business. From her passion for crafting candles that evoke emotions to learning how to sell wholesale, Haley shares how she’s turned her creative spark into a thriving business that lights up homes and hearts. Join us as we explore the magic of creating scents, the resilience of small business ownership, and the power of connection through meaningful products.

photo: https://outboundcandleco.com/

Outfits:

Hayley –

• Dress – Marine Layer
• Sneakers – Vans
• Necklace – Etsy
• Earrings – Small business in Brooklyn

Melissa – 

• Jeans – Express
• T-shirt – Rage Against the Machine Concert Tee
• Shacket – Dad’s Military Jacket
• Sneakers – Nike Air Force Ones

Matt – 

• Shacket – Bards x American Woolen
• Western Button Down – Bards
• Jeans – Raleigh Denim
• Socks – Bobs Burgers
• Boots – Mezlan Shoes
• Bracelet – Always Busy Mama

Key Topics Discussed:

• Haley’s journey from Colorado state trooper to candle maker
• How scents are created
• Lessons learned from balancing creativity with business challenges

Takeaways:

• Running a small business means embracing both highs and lows with confidence.
• Candles have a timeless ability to connect people through scent and memory. Supporting local makers strengthens community ties and celebrates craftsmanship.

Links:

• Outbound Candle Co. – Outdoor-inspired scents for travelers, hikers, and homebodies alike.
• Firestone – Art Studio & Cafe, Manchester, CT
• Bark & Vine – We are an indoor plant shop specializing in tropical plants, New Haven, CT
• The Westville General Store – New Haven, Connecticut’s general store in the Westville neighborhood. A modern mercantile with old school New England charm.
• American Woolen – Textile mill in Connecticut using 100% American wool and fiber, restoring New England’s textile industry.
• Raleigh Denim – Raleigh Denim Workshop is an American enterprise / art project / romantic adventure started by Sarah Yarborough and Victor Lytvinenko.
• Mezlan Shoes – Handmade Men’s Designer Shoes with Unique Personality, European Charm and Sophistication.
• Always Busy Mama – a Connecticut-based jewelry brand by Becky Imbimbo, offering dainty handcrafted and permanent jewelry pieces for women on the go.
• Bombas – Everyday Goods That Do Good — Bombas is a premium basics brand with a mission to provide comfort for all. 
• Marine Layer – Absurdly soft clothes designed in San Francisco and enjoyed by all.
• Market 1115 – Carefully curated pop-up events that highlight local creators and small business owners.