Getting to Know: My Experience

Hello everyone, and welcome to my first blog post! Allow me to begin by introducing myself. My name is Paige Manssen, and I am in my final semester at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater. For the past (almost) two years I have been working at The Candle Mercantile (TCM). I supply a little sneak peek in my “About” page on what the shop is all about to give you all a little background info.

I have nothing but love for this little small business and all of the employees that work here! My journey with TCM began during a strange time in my life, and the world. Coming out of my sophomore year (May 2020), I was employed and set to start a customer service internship for the upcoming summer. COVID-19 rocked our world shortly before this and completely turned my summer plans upside down. With my internship canceled, and having just moved into Wisconsin, I was in desperate need of a summer job. I had stumbled upon TCM through a friend’s Facebook page, and instantly sent them an email. Knowing how much of a candle enthusiast I am, I could not be more excited when they offered me a position and I was immersed in the candle making game. I met with the two owners Liz Doyle and Leigh Ann Myers and felt instantly welcomed by the amazing, fun and creative team that they created.

My time with The Candle Mercantile has taught me a lot. I have learned to work under pressure, accommodate different people, and grow professionally. As I begin looking for a full-time job after college, I will be sad to see my time at TCM come to a close. My bosses and fellow employees are extremely supportive of me and what my future may hold, even if that means leaving TCM. I am extremely grateful for my time here and all of the lessons I have learned. Through these blogs, I hope to let you all get to know The Candle Mercantile almost as well as I do, and I hopefully encourage some of you newbies to stop on by!