Woman of The Month: AnnLee Hoy
I am proud to announce AnnLee Hoy as WOMAN OF THE MONTH ! Please enjoy learning more about AnnLee, her inspiration behind candle making and how she began her business.
MEET ANNLEE HOY:
AnnLee, please tell us a little about yourself before we discuss more about inspiration behind Inspo Candle Co.
I was born in Olympia, WA but my family is from Cambodia. I was raised by a single mom and grew up with an older sister who I am very close with. Their support and strength played a large part in shaping who I am today. I am also a mom to two teenagers and a wife. In addition to Inspo Candle Co., I also have a company called Metropolis Dance which I started in 2014.
What inspired you to pursue entrepreneurship, considering your roles as a dance instructor and candle maker?
I’ve always loved art, creativity, and dance. It was a dream of mine to start my own dance company someday. When my kids were young, I decided to leave my banking job of 10 years and start an after school dance program that my kids were a part of. During the pandemic, dance classes were on pause so I began making candles and loved it. It was very therapeutic during such a stressful time and it still brings me so much joy today.
Since embarking on your entrepreneurial journey, what has been your most unforgettable experience?
I have several of them which are mostly milestones that I reached, but if I had to choose one I’d say it’s when the light bulb went off that I wanted to start learning how to make candles. During the pandemic when everything was so limited, getting boba with my family was the big highlight of my week. One day, I was admiring how much the drink brought me so much happiness and I said out loud, “I wonder if I can make this into a candle?” and that’s how my boba collection candles began!
Based on your expertise as an entrepreneur, what guidance or advice would you offer to individuals aspiring to pursue a similar path?
The journey won’t be easy, there will be ups and downs, but if you try your best and be yourself, there’s always something you will learn and can take away from those experiences.
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Website: www.inspocandleco.com
Instagram: @inspo.candleco