October 14, 2014
Candace Reeves, Bean Home and Body
Bio The path that led her to this point
From a young age, I was pretty excited at the prospect of having a job.
I landed my first one around the age of 16 at a local juice bar in Tasmania.
Straight out of high school, I relocated to pursue a Bachelor of Arts at the University of Melbourne.
After that, it took me a while to figure out what I wanted to do.
I kind of fell into the legal sector through a temp job and have been there ever since, first in paralegal roles, and more recently as grants manager for a not-for-profit organisation.
During that time I have also been busy doing more study and will graduate with a Bachelor of Laws later this year.
It's only recently that I found the courage to take a leap and do something that I actually enjoy.
Regardless of how many people laugh at me or tell me I'm dreaming, I am a big believer that I can love my job.
It's not that I didn't enjoy my other jobs per se, but they didn't make me excited to go to work and there's certainly not much room for my creativity in the law!
It's scary to leave behind security and stability and go out on your own - but I think seeing my parents and older brother become successful entrepreneurs has instilled a certain amount of confidence and bravery in me.
I knew that whatever my business was, it needed to give back to the community and help others less fortunate.
I have done a lot of volunteering locally and overseas, and seen first hand just how lucky I am.
Each year Bean will support four charitable projects around the world.
I love that I can combine this passion with a love for shopping and collecting beautiful things.
Q&A Insider advice & tips
What's been your greatest achievement to date?
Believing in myself enough to move away from the norm and do something a little bit risky.
What's been your biggest challenge so far?
It has been a challenge at times to keep things in perspective and realise that I can't do everything at once. I have had to learn to be realistic and patient.
Don't be afraid to ask others for help - I am constantly amazed by the generosity of people.
Best lesson you've learned along the way?
Learn to take criticism and turn it into something positive. Most feedback, negative or otherwise, can be applied in some way to make you and your business stronger.
A website, book or resource that has helped you in your business or inspired you and why?
Using Shopify enables me to be in control of my website, from design to checkout. It was also key to keeping my startup costs low.
Which person or brand do you most admire and why?
I admire anyone who has the courage to do what they love and be successful in it.
My parents are an endless source of inspiration and encouragement.
What advice would you give someone starting an independent business in your industry?
If it's what you really want to do - give it a go. While it may be stressful and overwhelming at times, the freedom, pride and accomplishment you will feel makes it all worthwhile.
Finish this sentence
Everything changed for me when…
Other people began to believe in my vision and get excited for me.
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