Behind The Brand

Em Soy Candles

Tell us a bit about yourself 

My name is Joey Peralta Repayo and yes, EM is still me. Em-Em is what my family calls me in the Philippines. Born and raised in a small barrio (a district of a town in Spanish-speaking countries), Ochando in New Washing, Aklan just one and a half hours away from Boracay Island. I love to dance. When I was young I even thought I could be a famous ballerina! Funny huh?! Then I got into mountain biking years after I got a job at Disney. More than a year of adventure in the hills and rocky roads, I found myself in an amazing team called Team Mushu of Hong Kong Disneyland, a Dragon Boat team. Been focusing on this for more than 10 years and now I’m making candles! 😆 
What made you start your company?

COVID-19 made me 🤭

Tell me about your product and brand?
EM Scented Soy Candles and Scents are personally hand-poured, made in small batches, scented with natural essential oils/fragrance oils, 100% Soy Wax and come with Wood Wicks as they create a cozy campfire atmosphere, crackling and all! Also, sourced sustainably.

What struggles have you faced when starting up a business?

Starting up and having no connections on where to buy supplies that are great quality and yet at a reasonable price. Sourcing it in small batches as I can’t afford to have it in bulk. Carrying kilos and kilos of supplies from the supplier back home as I don’t have a car to transport it. Making candles in small batches and being limited to meet the demands. Doing it in our small kitchen shared with 3 housemates. But at the end of the day still no complaints, I’m enjoying every second of it! 

 
How did you get over them?

I can’t say I got over it, just grateful to my family and friends who has been so supportive of me.
 
Any advice for others just getting started?

I myself am still new to this. All I can say is, there will never be a right time. Stop waiting and start doing. Create, take risks and live your passion.
 

Do you have a favourite quote?

I do have a lot and it’s different every time but I guess this one right now speaks to me more 😅 ”Be happy with what you have, while working for what you want “ – Hellen Keller

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