Back to Agana: One of My Very First Markets
In 2020, I had the honor of being chosen for a seasonal pop-up at Agana Shopping Center in Guam. The setup was unique—vendors were given an empty retail space for about a month and a half, and it was up to us to bring it to life. No racks, no decor—just walls, and potential.
For me, it wasn’t just a shop. It was my canvas.
🌞 7 Days a Week, Just Me
The agreement was clear: if you were selected, you had to keep your store open during all mall hours. That meant 7 days a week, no breaks. And I was all in.
I’d open the store each morning, candles neatly displayed, playlists softly playing, heart pounding. Throughout the day, I’d manage walk-in customers, pack online orders right behind the counter, and take notes on what I could improve. Then I’d lock up, head home, make more candles, review my notes, and prepare to do it all again.
It was just me—but somehow, it never felt lonely. My heart was so full!
✨ Finding Flow
Pretty quickly, I realized I could bring an extra table and start pouring candles live in the store. This changed everything. Customers got to see the process behind the product, and I got to stay productive without needing to choose between creating or selling.
The scent of warm wax would drift through the air, and shoppers would peek in, curious. That authenticity, that intimacy—it created real connection. I was living the dream I hadn’t fully written yet.
🌙 Night Market Hustle
Every Sunday, there was a night market. So after a full day at the shop, I’d pack up and head straight to set up all over again. It sounds exhausting—but for me, it was energizing. I was so grateful for the opportunity that even the longest days felt rewarding.
📝 Lessons I Still Carry:
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Start with what you have—and make it beautiful.
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Observe. Adjust. Improve. Every day was a chance to do better.
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You don’t need a team to begin. Just belief.
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Fatigue fades, but purpose sticks.
🌻 Looking Back, Looking Forward
That Agana pop-up taught me so much. It shaped the way I approach Hekiti Candle even now. The long days, the handmade displays, the late-night wax pours—they were all part of my foundation.
I’m so proud of that chapter, and I can’t wait to do something like it again soon. Hopefully with even more candles, even more intention—and maybe even a little help.
💛 If You're Just Starting:
Start. Dress up the blank canvas. Do it scared, do it tired, do it with joy. Your future self will thank you for showing up
✨ Want more behind-the-scenes stories like this?
Explore the full Hekiti Blog for scent inspiration, pop-up stories, and the journey behind the flame.