Member Spotlight: Yani Lauger of Gleam Living
Hey ladies! Welcome to another Member Spotlight, featuring our members — influencers, entrepreneurs, bloggers, and girl bosses alike! Next up, one of our Shop Local partners: Yani Lauger of Gleam Living, a line of all-natural candles and self-care products.
Read on to learn about how Yani started her business, what inspires her, and more!
Q: Tell us a little about you, girl!
A: Hi! I’m Yani, owner of Gleam Living. I began my “adult life” working in a corporate job for a few years. When I had my first baby, I decided I wanted to care for her full time, so I left that job and continued to work on growing my candle business. I spend most of my days hanging out with my husband and babies, working on my business and reading, traveling and being a foodie.
Q: How did Gleam Living get started?
A: I’ve always enjoyed the warmth and hominess candles bring to a room’s environment. I was looking for candles to enjoy in my home but I wanted something that blended in to my décor without logos or branding. As I scoured the internet for the perfect cozy accents, I learned about the negative effects that paraffin wax and the phthalates have on your health. Frustrated with limited healthy choices on the market, I decided to create a beautiful, clean alternative to toxin laden candles. As the holidays approached, I began mixing my own soy blends and unique scents to share with family and friends. They loved them and suggested I sell them. I went ahead and set up an Etsy account and listed my candles. I was thrilled as I began to receive orders. I have been steadily growing ever since and I am so proud of where my candle shop is today.
Q: Tell us about your products!
A: I only use quality and non-toxic materials in my candles. I use wax from organic U.S. grown soy beans and infuse my candles with essential oils. I use crackling, wooden wicks and hand pour each candle into pretty, reusable vessels. I love producing décor-oriented candles to beautifully complement every home & style.
Q: We love how your products are centered around self care and wellness. Is that something you’ve always been interested in?
A: I have always been interested in wellness. I believe it is so important to take time for ourselves and indulge a little. Our bodies will tell us when we need to slow down. As a mama, I’ve come to understand that I have to be intentional with prioritizing time to recharge and take care of myself, so that I can better care for my babies. There is something soothing about a good candle and I love that my candles bring comfort and joy into people’s homes.
Q: What advice do you have for women wanting to start their own business?
A: I would say just start. Take the risk and see if it’s right for you. It doesn’t have to be perfect at first. Start with Esty or whichever platform you would like and list your products or services. I would also say that it may take some time to build momentum, so don’t give up. The thing that will set you apart is continuing to show up.
Q: What’s next for you and Gleam Living?
A: I would love to continue to give my customers new scent and vessel options. I am constantly testing and searching for new ways to serve my community. The hope is to move to a larger studio and to expand my product line. I am so inspired by hardworking women following their dreams and I hope to inspire other women to do the same!
THERE YOU HAVE IT, LADIES
A peek into Yani’s journey building her business, Gleam Living. Check out her amazing products here and be sure to follow along with her on Instagram!
Who should we spotlight next?! Leave a comment below!
