Today we’d like to introduce you to Yelyzaveta Savchenko.
Hi Yelyzaveta, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
My name is Yelyzaveta Savchenko — in English, it’s the equivalent of Elizabeth, but everyone simply calls me Liza. I’m originally from Sumy, Ukraine. On June 15, 2023, I moved to the United States with my husband and daughter. Unfortunately, the reason for our move was the war — it became too dangerous to live in our hometown, and we had to seek safety and a better future for our family.
After arriving in the U.S., we adjusted fairly quickly. My daughter started school, my husband found a job, and I focused on our home and family. One cozy evening in the fall, I was watching my favorite movie, enjoying a glass of wine, and burning a candle — something I’ve always loved. I’ve always found candles to be magical: the warmth, the soft glow, the scent… And suddenly I thought, “Why not try making my own?”
That idea stayed with me. I started watching countless YouTube videos, reading articles, following makers on social media, and even bought a few online courses. I ordered all the necessary materials — making sure to choose only natural and safe ingredients — and began experimenting.
Little by little, what started as a hobby began turning into a small business. I occasionally sell my candles at local markets, but recently I’ve been focusing more on online sales. I wouldn’t say my business is fully established yet, but to me, it’s more than just a business — it’s a passion. It brings me joy, a sense of purpose, and a creative outlet in this new chapter of my life.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It hasn’t been a completely smooth road. Moving to a new country with a different language and culture was a big change. Adjusting to a new way of life while starting everything from the beginning was emotionally challenging. But over time, we’ve found our rhythm, and I’ve learned to turn those challenges into motivation for building something meaningful here.
We’ve been impressed with Elizabeth’s Candles, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
My business is called Elizabeth’s Candles. I handcraft candles and wax melts using natural, safe ingredients. Each piece is made with care and often designed in artistic or floral shapes that make them both beautiful and unique.
What makes my brand special is the heart behind it — every candle is a small piece of comfort and beauty. I want people to feel warmth, peace, and inspiration when they light one of my creations.
What were you like growing up?
I grew up as a pretty typical child in a loving and supportive family. I played piano for a few years, although that feels like a lifetime ago now. I also loved making beaded bracelets and sometimes did embroidery — mostly as school projects, but I enjoyed the creativity behind it.
English was always my favorite subject, and I studied it with real interest, even though I never quite reached fluency back then. I also did sports dancing for a while, which was a lot of fun.
Overall, I was just a regular kid — curious, a little ambitious, sometimes a bit mischievous — with a mix of hobbies and big dreams.
Pricing:
- Candles range from $15 to $35 depending on size and design.
- Wax melts are priced between $8 and $15.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://elizabethscandles.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elizabeths.candles/?igsh=dTgzYXdnYmZvNWFn#
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61569907462313
