Patti of Biomax1

Interview with Patti of Biomax1.com

Where is your company based? USA

How long have you been involved with Gel Candles? 7 years

What prompted your interest in Gel Candles? All of my life I have loved candles... and all my life, prior to Gel, I have made a mess with paraffin. (I like to think my creative soul is not meant to strive for 'neatness'... isn't that assigned to those who alphabetize their canned goods?)

Then, during investigation of products for our Day Spa, I stumbled upon 'candle gel-- burning 4-5 times longer than paraffin' and I could actually spill it and then pick it up and toss it back into the melt pot without destroying 100 sq feet of surface working area.

And the Gel was transparent so that left all kinds of ideas floating in my head… and it did burn slowly without leaving 1/2-3/4 of my spend-able income to be tossed into the trash (unburned paraffin hunks) :o)

Thus began my 'Gel Candle Passion' and yes, my friends, you must have passion to be successful in anything you tackle. For without passion, you cannot be 'driven'. And without a driving force... you will spit and spatter and find that you are running in circles. Ask me how I know :o)

I had finally found something that I couldn't 100% conquer in one day or one HOUR. Sound familiar? My mind became a candle factory within itself ... colors, techniques, themes, scents...etc It was racing 150 mph.... and my entire attire was not a stiff coating of paraffin wax!!! (See earlier statements regarding messiness). Although admittedly, I did seem to be finding tiny bits of foreign 'jelly-type' substances in the strangest of places, head to toe and from wall to wall.

They have since acquired their own definitions from our masses of supply customers... which are self-explanatory and bring wholesome laughter for all, especially when a stranger sees a blob in your hair and wonders -- What the heck is 'that'?

Next to passion, laughter is the next best medicine... and later we will talk more about the necessity of 'erect wicks'. (See our videos if you don't understand --tee hee, snicker. -- Yes I have received volumes of humorous banter regarding this subject and the presentation/explanation of same. Perhaps this accounts for the number of new male candle artisans which have joined us over the years.

How did you get started with Gel Candles?
I always believe in giving credit when credit is due. Back in 1997 there were only a couple distributors of the gel product and Karen from DownEast Scents was one. She and I started talking and sharing... later we became good friends.

Karen later decided to go back to school and to spend more time with her family... we have since lost connection, but if she should see this, I would surely welcome her writing me. Mentors are a wonderful thing... and oftentimes do not realize the impact they can have upon a person. Karen is a wonderful person and I thank her deeply for her reflection into my life.

I had actually started using the Internet for research back in 1990, from a legal standpoint, due to my career at that time. I was simply amazed to see the wealth of knowledge available... it was simply unending... and to an inquisitive mind... this can almost be deadly.

I was already deep into research and development of product recipes, developing my own line of Bath and Body products for our Day Spa and various body treatments. This last decade has been a researcher's dream in the quest for knowledge... not that you can always believe what you find on the Internet... much the same scenario as reading the newspaper... one (wo)man's opinion does not always directly represent true fact.

But deep inside me, I enjoy research and proving or dis-proving facts. So I was totally within my nature ... and 100% enjoying the wonderful elements of gel candle creation.

A very natural next step then came to me... I wanted to share it with the world. How could I keep quiet?? I am a people person! I have often been told that I could teach anybody anything. I have a great respect for people. I am very blessed with wonderful people around me… you know who you are. Many --I have never met face to face--but sure warm my heart on a daily basis.

Thus I began my crusade of design and instruction, and international connections. I received so much positive feedback from customers that there was no way I could stop. So I didn't ... and it is easy to blame all the customers who kept pushing me on…. and to you --I owe much and offer deepest thanks.

How did you get started with your business? See the last statement above -- customers create your business....and in exchange you return to them... your dedication... at least that worked for me.

A very dear soap friend of mine suggested I needed to start a Gel Candle conversation board. Yes... believe it or not... one did not exist at that time. It sounded a little scary to me.. but I said what the heck... maybe we will get 10 members. Well... 10 came….then 50 and I was beside myself...then we got in the 90s and I thought 'by golly--this is a miracle!" I won't forget the day we hit 100 members and it was shortly 120… and even the first 1,000!

But most importantly we were having a ball... all helping and nurturing each other... my favorite statement "No such thing as a stupid question…we are all here gathering facts in a different order". And to this day we continue to learn from each other. No (wo)man is an Island. Teamwork and cooperation spells success for all. And in the meantime, you make sure you have a little fun... for that's what makes life worthwhile and cyber-friendships come alive.

What do you like about Gel Candles? The absolutely endless creative techniques available. From embed designs, to container styles, to colors, to themes.... to specific holidays... it is simply endless and a creative mind needs this type of stimulation. Once we conquer, we move on. Think about it. That is why I consider 'duplication' to be the highest form of compliment. It allows you to see your ripples in the world.... inside yourself you know when and where you created a certain work or phrase. When you later see it used over and over --the truly creative mind smiles...knowingly....remembering the spark which created the thought and offers thanks for the gifts and blessings that allow the mind to think and create. Whether an idea is prompted from another person, a bird, a flower... it proves the importance and reality human existence and sharing.

And BTW2 Lynn's dedication to our cause goes greatly underestimated...for she too, has been a pioneer in the cause. She has taken individuals from "crayons to perfume" with the FIRST Gel Candle book ever written.. And I would be remiss not to ask for a hearty applause and a heartfelt "Thank you, Lynn, and best wishes on your newest quests. I have no doubt that you will have abundant continued success, and I consider myself extremely fortunate for our years of friendship, and to have been blessed to have you as a friend over these years". Once again proving the power of the cyber world.

What do you see ahead in Gel Candles? Ah, how we love technology!! We are in the 'information age' and we all know there are no secrets on the Internet!

Actually, I expect a whole variety of new formulations, improvements, etc. to develop in coming years. Research is our friend... and time divides the good from the bad.. the successes from the failures. And it takes all this to keep me entertained - so stay tuned!

What have you experienced with Gel or your business that has been humorous or unexpected? Humor-- in MY life? I must pause now… and take a drink of (water). I would say each day is exciting.

I have had many humorous stories from customers... like someone thinking when instructed to put the bead on the wick -- that laying it near the wick tab should be close enough.

I take the blame -- the correct direction would be thread that sucker on the wick -- so I stand corrected. But they did know to keep it straight and erect... no bent and wimpy wicks from this group! Unfortunately, I think I'm cut off at 4,797 words so I better move on.

Any other observations or comments about the candles or your business? I would only say that I owe any success that I can claim to our customers -- for without them, we would be nothing. I consider it an honor to help you, to share with you -- for together, not alone, we contribute into the lives we touch. We touch hearts with our works and how could we ask for anything more? For nothing else compares...when looking at the 'big picture'.

This information is provided with the understanding that the author and publisher are not engaged in rendering legal, financial, or other professional advice. Laws and practices often vary from state to state and if legal or other expert assistance is required, the services of a professional should be sought. The author and publisher specifically disclaim any liability that is incurred from the use or application of the contents of this publication / website.

Gel candles may resemble a beverage or food product. All pictures and references are "non-edible" items made of nonfood (wax, glass, etc.) components. Be certain that you understand the steps and precautions in making any gel candle design and in using the gel candles. Failure to follow instructions could result in fire, injury or smoke damage. If you have any questions contact your Supplier.

More....