Daily Inspiration: Meet Emily Pangborn

Today we’d like to introduce you to Emily Pangborn.

Hi Emily, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Hi, my name is Emily. I am happily married to my husband Matt and we have three amazing kids, Landen, Rowan, and Fallon. We live in Northern Michigan and enjoy spending time outside.

As long as I can remember, I have loved candles. After realizing that many expensive candles were giving me headaches nor burning properly, I decided to try making my own candles in 2014 and that is how 5:14 Candles was born.

After much trial and error, I believe that I have found the best combination of jar, wick, wax, and fragrance. One that allows my candles to burn clean all the way down while providing a fantastic scent throw. I use high-quality fragrance oils, 100% US-sourced soy wax, and cotton wicks for my candles. Using the highest quality ingredients allows my candles to be free of lead, dye, phthalates, and parabens as well as vegan.

I meticulously hand-pour each candle in a small workshop located in my retail store, Evergreen Mercantile in Beulah, Michigan.

5:14 Candles was named after a bible verse in Matthew.

You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. Matthew 5:14-16

This verse has a multitude of meanings for me. Not only do candles spread light, but I have every intention of being a light in the world. 5:14 Candles donates over half of all proceeds to charitable organizations every year. Lastly, the name 5:14 Candles makes many people curious and, in that curiosity, I am able to plant a seed of salvation. I believe that He is the true light and that I have been given this gift to glorify Him.

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
I started pouring candles in 2014 as a hobby and it quickly grew into a larger endeavor. I started selling my candles in stores in 2015 and have gradually increased to over 25 stores. Then in 2021, I purchased a retail store that allows me to host candle-pouring classes as well as housing my studio. It has not always been easy. Sales calls are not my forte, and I find it hard to put myself out there, but after doing a few craft and art shows it slowly got easier to sell my products.

In 2019 I had the opportunity to have my candles produced in a factory and it didn’t work out. I took it very hard at first but then realized I had invested in enough materials to get me through shortages during covid when others were not able to secure glass jars and wax.

After recovering from the factory setback, I wasn’t sure what was in store for me next, and then I was offered the chance to purchase an existing business in Beulah. After much thought and prayer, I decided to take the plunge, and here I am in my second year of store ownership. I continue to carry kitchenware and home decor while adding candles and gifts for everyone. I also have over 50 Michigan vendors at Evergreen Mercantile. I find joy in including other artists and crafters in my retail store, many of whom I have met through craft shows and art fairs.

I was turned down, I was told I wouldn’t make it, I was told my packaging wasn’t good enough, I made mistakes, and I grew through it all. It wasn’t always easy, but it was worth it. My advice for others starting out, dream big, take chances, and have fun!

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I hand pour soy candles using high quality ingredients. I love to create new candle fragrances. It is so much fun to start with single fragrances and combine them to create a unique blend. I also enjoy hosting candle-pouring classes and teaching others the fundamentals of candle-pouring. It is fun to see what others come up with, and I enjoy getting to know my customers.

I also offer private label candles for other stores, retail spaces, salons, and real estate companies which I find rewarding.

If we knew you growing up, how would we have described you?
I was a very active child. I grew up on a lake and love to be on the water. In my youth I participated in numerous sports, choir, dance, and 4H. I have always been interested in arts and crafts and have dabbled in many hobbies throughout my life.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.514candles.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/514_candles/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/514candles
• Other: www.evergreenmercantile.com

Image Credits
Lisa Baird