Your story, Your words – Zarina founder of Kiki’s House

Who are you and what do you do?

My name is Zarina and I am the business owner and creative behind KiKi’s House. I make and create candles and wax melts 

How did you get into this field of work?

My mother is an artist and mentioned to me that I should make candles, I initially said no, she had all the equipment and so I started looking into the making side and here I am today! 

What is Kiki’s house and why did you creative this business?

KiKi’s House Candles came about as I was buying and selling soap, and decided to start making candles to go with them. I was about to become a mother and wanted to work from home. The business is named after my first child! 

What does Kiki’s house offer and who is it for?

my business offers a wide range of candles and wax melts for home fragrance. Each scent is designed to bring a warming, uplifting or relaxing feeling to your space, whether it’s at home or in the office. 

I aim my products to everyone, but my main customer base are women, who already are lovers of home fragrances products or newbies. 

What are your biggest challenges running this business?

My biggest challenge is being seen, marketing is an ongoing process, so it’s something that not only lets people know you’re out there, but where to find you. 

What are the common misconceptions you’ve encountered around the business and the products you provide?

That anyone can do it.  I can honestly say, I love what I do, but it’s not for the faint of heart. It’s a lot of long hours, messy spaces and takeaways to get prepared and get the thousands of little jobs done. 

What wins have you had as an independent business?

Aside from the profits that can be made, for me it’s the people I meet, the ones that have become friends, but also recommend me to other people and create extra business for me. 

What has running a business taught you about yourself?

That I am way stronger than I thought I was, that you can literally do anything you want if you focus on what you want and go at get it. Also how proud I am of myself, I don’t mean for that to sound boastful, but raising a family alone and running a business are two of the most challenging tasks of my life, I’m proud of what I’ve achieved so far. I can’t wait to achieve more! 

What is a mantra you live by?

Just get up and do it, do it now and do it scared! 

How can people get involved or support Kiki’s house?

Something as simple as making a purchase to sharing your recommendations to friends, family and other businesses that may benefit from my products, that would be great! 

How can people find you?

I’m on Instagram @kikishousecandles and my website www.kikshouse.co.uk I have a regular market at Colchester on a Saturday, but I travel everywhere. My stall is outside Blacksheep coffee shop or behind JD Sports. I always update my IG so people know where to find me! 

Is there anything you would like to add?

I also run candle making workshops at a Hanks Vegan restaurant in Ipswich Town. It’s a great way to relax with friends after a lovely vegan meal and take part in something creative! Come and join me, you’ll love it! 

Hank’s Vegan Restaurant 

5 Thoroughfare, 

Ipswich,

IP1 1BX

Workshop dates £38 pp 

Time: 7-9pm

Dates: 

November 18th 

December 9th & December 16th

January 27th 

The workshops are the same time 7-9pm but the dates differ.