Loans terrify me.
Loans terrify me.
Mauro started her own candle company. She launched it with $3,000 and without using credit.
Company: Objects With Purpose
Owner: Ianthe Mauro
Headquarters: Topanga Canyon, Calif.

In 2009, I went through a divorce. I also got diagnosed with two autoimmune diseases. I kept lighting candles every day and setting an intention. I was getting obsessed with finding the best scents, the prettiest.

But most candles are made from petroleum-based waxes and release toxins when they burn. Other problems include wicks made with lead and synthetic perfumes.

The cleanest burning thing that I found was coconut meat. My candles are made with as many organic and natural ingredients as possible, including cotton, apricot oils and white beeswax.

I have not taken out any business loans. I have always been opposed to it and it terrifies me. I started this business with $3,000. I chose to start with only what I could afford to start with. I got some seed money in my divorce and I chose to roll out really slowly.

I looked into getting a loan thinking if I did that maybe I could start with a bigger splash, cast a bigger net. But, I am not going to have a business unless I can do a business independent of all loans.

I have always been really good about debt. I have one credit card that I pay off every month. I want to live a life interest-free. The true American dream is that we can sustain ourselves, not something we are chasing, can't afford and are putting on credit.

I won't ever take out a loan in the future. As soon as I imagine growing really fast, it makes me scared and I can't sleep at night. I want everyone to have these candles and love them, but I am willing to have it take time.


Last updated October 17 2011: 4:34 PM ET
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