Northwest Naturals believes that strong communities grow from young talented entrepreneurs. We want to bring a spotlight onto some of the people bringing up new businesses and help them find the resources they need to become successful. Please reach out and contribute to these fine businesses so they can grow and help our communities grow.
February 2022
Erik Stoltz
of Lake Oswego, Oregon
Erik began his entrepreneurial career at age 12 selling door-to-door his hand-crafted shaving and makeup brushes. After selling out within a week, he realized he had a viable product and contracted with a local boutique to retail his one-of-a-kind brushes.
Educating the public to the advantages of switching from shaving cans to using a shaving brush has been an on-going challenge for Erik as well as learning to listen to his customer’s needs before making a sales pitch. Eager to turn any mistakes into further opportunities, Erik realized he could turn less-than-perfect brush handles into bottle stoppers!
Erik considers his business a “work in progress.” A welcome vendor at area farmer’s markets and events, he plans to expand his online presence and acquire more retail locations. At his current age of 17, this artistic young entrepreneur is garnering valuable practical experience in the business world that will enhance his future both educationally and as a contributing member of our society.
Congratulations, Erik!
February 2022
Kiley Beard
of Chandler, Arizona
At age 11, Kiley Beard decided to turn her love for crafts into a candle making business. With her grandmother as her first customer, Kiley’s next hurdle was to figure out where to market her fragrant handicrafts. After selling to her neighbors from her front yard location, she currently sells at farmer’s markets and craft shows and is looking to expand on the internet.
Now in eighth grade, 13-year-old Kiley’s candles have attracted a loyal following. One of her biggest orders to date has been from a taekwondo school that ordered 100 of her hand-crafted candles. Always looking to expanding her business, Kiley has added wax melts to her repertoire, and they are proving equally popular. With delicious scents like Black Violet & Saffron and Love Spell it is no surprise that her customers are loyal. Her latest offerings are handmade earrings in unique designs.
When asked about her artistic creations, Kiley’s response was “I love making them!” She belongs to a Young Entrepreneur group where her passion is understood and encouraged. The name of her business is: Kiley’s Kandles & Things, a clever choice as she has unlimited scope to add new items as her talents expand. Never one to dream small, profits from her business are building a college fund toward medical school.
We wish you all the best, Kiley!
Find her on Instagram @kileyskandles
