Starting a business is never easy, but starting one from scratch while fleeing a war-torn country takes an incredible amount of determination and grit. This is the story of two friends, Anna Shturmak and Nastya Beres, who fled Ukraine during the war and started a home-based candle business in Didsbury, UK.
When Anna and Nastya arrived in the UK, they knew they wanted to start their own business, but they didn’t have a lot of money or resources to work with. They were fortunate enough to find a host family in Didsbury who took them in and helped them settle. This host family not only provided them with a place to stay but also helped them in starting their own business.
They saw a gap in the market for high-quality, natural candles and decided to start their own candle business. Their candles are made from natural components, and the packaging is made from recycled materials. Each candle is handmade using soy wax and a wooden or cotton wick. They add fragrance oil without parabens or other harmful substances to make your evening bright and safe.
Their candles are designed to be simple and clear so that everyone can choose something for themselves. They want to create a product that unites different people with different lives, united by taking care of themselves and nature.
The business started small, with Anna and Nastya working out of their home. But as word spread about their high-quality, natural candles, their business started to grow. The host family helped to spread the word to their friends and family, which helped in getting more customers. Today, their candles are sold at their host home in Didsbury and they have a loyal following of customers who love the product. Big media such as BBC and MEN have featured their story this year.
Anna and Nastya’s story is truly inspiring. It shows that with hard work, determination, and a great product, you can succeed no matter what life throws you. Their candles are not only beautiful and fragrant but also a reminder that you can overcome any obstacles when you believe in yourself and your dreams. And also with the help of a kind and supportive host family, they were able to start their own business and make a new life for themselves in the UK.
You can show your support by following their IG: @vira.room & shopping online: www.virahello.com
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