Jeeva and Suji Sanjeevan are doctors and they left their jobs to pursue a career in candle making – and now they are earning just double from $300,000 collectively to $600,000.
They live in Melbourne and practicing for almost 10 years. In December 2015, they purchase a $250 candle kit and created Light & Glo.
‘Jeeva has worked at various hospitals, including Monash, The Royal Children’s Hospital, St Vincent’s and The Alfred Hospital,’ Suji, 36, told FEMAIL.
‘I pursued a clinical research career working at the Royal Children’s Hospital and St Vincent’s and have completed one year of a Juris Doctor course.’
The couple was earning $150,000 each as doctors and researchers but their income has doubled to $600,000 after making their first Light & Glo.
‘The idea of business has always intrigued both Jeeva and me. In addition to our successful careers we have always wanted the flexibility that entrepreneurship has provided,’ Suji said.
‘Through Light & Glo we can craft our career path and build our dreams as opposed to being steered in a path that is more rigid and inflexible.
‘As parents to three young boys, we decided to forge our destiny to spend more time with them.’
They wanted to rule ‘industry in the field of ambiance.
‘They place North American wooden wicks into their candles that have an essential oil scent, and 100% soy wax gives it unique smell.
They are selling ‘yoga-inspired’ candles for $28, aromatherapy room spray for $19.95 and organic hand and body wash for $29.95, on their website.
They have won many awards for their business including Optus’ Manufacturing Business of the Year, Handmade Business Award Winner and Young Business Person of the Year winner at the Wyndham Business Awards.
The couple faces several challenges in the four years since they launched their candle business.
‘You need to consistently push yourself out of her comfort zone, taking risks to move forward. The creative industries are constantly evolving, so there is the need to constantly keep up and innovate,’ Suji said.
They are partnering with American Express’ Shop Small initiative to celebrate their local business, which gives back to the community by leaving a very little carbon footprint and giving back to charitable organizations.
‘Be sure to line your business up with your passions,’ Suji said.
‘Arm yourself with self-belief and make a mental commitment to focus on solutions, not problems.
‘Allow fear to be the motivator but not the captor and use “no” to prompt new direction and opportunity.’
Recommended Video
“Modern Caveman: Man Builds A $230,000 House In 700-Year-Old Cave”
[rumble video_id=veu7d domain_id=u7nb2]