Forth Valley Chamber launched their ‘Member Spotlight’ to shine a light on the incredible businesses within their Chamber Community. In highlighting a new member each month, they aim to enhance their member experience and convey the breadth and depth of the businesses in the Forth Valley area. Abbie Graham, left, Marketing and Communications Coordinator, Forth Valley Chamber of Commerce explains.
After 20 years of dedicated service in the army, Duncan MacLean embarked on an unexpected journey into entrepreneurship by pursuing his MBA. His thesis, which centred around a totally hypothetical candle-making business, took a surprising turn, evolving into a thriving enterprise with over 50 employees, an international reach, and a sprawling 63,000 square feet at West Carrons Works in Falkirk.
Testing his thesis on the ground, Duncan and his wife Cheryl started small, attending local craft markets and fairs. What began as an idea, quickly grew into a shared passion, leading them to take the bold step of relocating to Scotland, leaving their former careers behind.
And so, over a cup of coffee at a service station, Candle Shack was born. An unassuming moment which marked the beginning of their journey as entrepreneurs.
Today, Candle Shack is now dedicated to helping the next generation of candle makers succeed, providing them with the quality candle making componentry, training and advice they need in order to thrive.
Duncan and Cheryl’s mission to simplify candle-making for others, stems from their own early struggles, when their products had humble beginnings—candles made in a shed with makeshift tools like empty jars, biro pens, and glued-on seashells. “Being unable to make products we were proud of was hard. Everything looked the same. Whereas, if you look at the products our customers make these days, they look fantastic!”
“We want to ensure that people who want to craft products, can create something beautiful, that wouldn’t be out of place on a shelf at say – John Lewis!” said Duncan, co-founder.
But aesthetics are only part of the equation. To help customers create safe, high-quality products, Candle Shack’s team spends countless hours in their lab, developing safe and consistent candle recipes. This dedication to quality helps significantly reduce one of the biggest obstacles new candle makers face: the fear of producing unsafe products.
Beyond technical expertise, Duncan encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to tackle the emotional challenges of starting a business. Imposter syndrome, he says, often holds people back.
“Most people never try because of imposter syndrome. Everyone looks at someone who runs a business and thinks they have some secret sauce. I just think they had a go.”
“If you work hard and you take time to think, anyone can create a business that will be successful.”
With Candle Shack’s expert knowledge and quality supplies, the team are fuelling more aspiring entrepreneurs with the tools they need to create lovingly made candles – something Duncan notes to be the most fulfilling part of his job, alongside seeing people grow within the business.
Duncan and Cheryl’s story is one of passion and resilience. One that proves that even the most unexpected ideas can lead to remarkable success.
Whether you are curious about the world of candle making, or simply curious about the world of Candle Shack, discover more at candle-shack.co.uk