The journey of opening and running a business is a tale of drama, struggle, challenges, sacrifices, and ultimately, a triumphant happy ending. Our story begins in 2002 when my family and I immigrated to the United States, carrying dreams of a better life and the desire to build something meaningful with our own hands. As the years passed, the dream took root, and in 2015, while serving in the U.S. Army during a tour in South Korea, the spark of entrepreneurship ignited. The idea of a candle company, a beacon of quality and service, captured my imagination. Little did I know that this dream would lead to a series of challenges that would test my resolve.
Before the vision could materialize, we had to confront obstacles head-on. Months were dedicated to experimenting with candle formulas, facing setbacks, and learning from failures. The path to perfection was a winding one, marked by late nights and tireless effort. Fast forward to early 2021, where a renewed sense of purpose emerged, sparked by my wife's inspiration after a visit to Greece. Heaven Kepi (Kepi means Candle), the name of our company, was born, symbolizing our commitment to creating candles that embody tranquility, love, and friendship. The struggle was real, but so was the determination to turn our dream into reality.
Operating the business became more than a personal venture; it became an opportunity to give back to the community. Partnerships were forged, and a global reach for our candles became a shared goal. Yet, with success came the responsibility to embrace sustainability. Our soy-based candles, carefully crafted, reflected our deep concern for the environment and a commitment to corporate responsibility.
The sacrifices made along the way, the sleepless nights, the moments of doubt—all were woven into the fabric of our entrepreneurial journey. Yet, through the drama and struggle, a unique brand emerged, marked by passion for spiritual and physical connections. In the end, our candles became more than products; they became a symbol of a nurturing and balanced lifestyle. The hardships, the challenges, all led to a triumphant moment—a happy ending. We considered ourselves blessed to have the opportunity to share cherished moments with our loved ones and contribute to a better world.
Our motto, "Breathe, Relax, and Dream," encapsulated the essence of our journey. It was a reminder of the struggle, the sacrifices, and the ultimate triumph that came from daring to dream and working tirelessly to turn those dreams into reality.