Today we’d like to introduce you to Mignolia Rodriguez.
Hi Mignolia, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
MAC Inspirations began when I was pregnant with my second daughter. At that time, my oldest daughter was eight years old, and I wanted her to see that women can build their dreams and turn creativity into something real.
Two of my family members went through cancer, and that made me more aware of what we bring into our homes. I learned that not all candles are safe, so I began creating my own using clean coconut soy wax and phthalate-free fragrances. I take pride in every candle I make, knowing it’s safe, long-lasting, and filled with good energy.
During a difficult season in my life, I went through a divorce, and daily affirmations helped me heal and rebuild my confidence. That’s where my idea for the “Hidden Message Candle” came from. Each candle reveals a positive affirmation as it melts, a reminder that even in hard moments, there’s still light and love underneath.
What started as a small hobby at home has grown into something I’m truly proud of. Over time, I’ve learned so much, not just about candle making, but about patience, consistency, and believing in myself. I began sharing my candles with friends and family, then started selling at local markets around the Tampa Bay area, which helped me connect directly with people who love handmade, clean products.
Today, I’m blessed to have a storefront consignment space at Countryside Mall in Clearwater and to work with a few wholesale accounts, which allows me to share my candles with even more people. Seeing customers connect with the hidden affirmations inside my candles reminds me why I started. It’s been a journey of growth, faith, and gratitude, and I’m excited for what’s ahead.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It definitely hasn’t always been a smooth road, but every challenge has taught me something valuable. When I first started, I had to learn everything on my own, from candle testing and labeling to marketing and selling at markets. There were moments of doubt, slow seasons, and times when balancing work, motherhood, and my business felt overwhelming.
Marketing was a real struggle for me because I’m an introvert and not used to exposing my life on social media. And then there’s the imposter syndrome, those moments of self-doubt when you wonder if you’re really doing enough or if you belong in this space.
Over time, I’ve learned to push through those thoughts by focusing on my purpose and remembering why I started. Every step, even the small ones, is progress. I’ve learned to keep showing up, to trust my process, and to celebrate small wins. Building a business from scratch isn’t easy, but I’m proud of how far I’ve come and grateful for everyone who has supported me along the way. They remind me that I’m exactly where I’m meant to be.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m an Industrial Engineer, currently working as a Preconstruction Specialist in commercial construction. I’m originally from the Dominican Republic and moved to the United States six years ago to remarry and start a new chapter in my life. Like many professionals who immigrate, I faced the challenge of reentering the workforce in a new country where the language and culture were completely different from what I was used to.
Being able to work in a position where I bring value to my company makes me proud, because I’ve overcome so many barriers to get here. I want my daughters to see that with faith, effort, and determination, they can achieve anything they set their minds to.
What truly sets me apart is my optimistic personality and my strong faith in God, who continues to guide me. I’m known for being the kind of person who brings light into a room during hard times and always looks for solutions when challenges arise. That same mindset is what inspired MAC Inspirations to create something that spreads light, faith, and positivity to others.
Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
My advice for anyone just starting out is to believe in yourself and use what you already have, even when things don’t look perfect. Don’t wait for the “right time” or for everything to be ready; progress happens one step at a time.
I wish I had known earlier that mistakes are part of the process and that consistency matters more than perfection. Every time you show up, you grow. Surround yourself with people who support you, keep learning, and always stay connected to your “why.”
Most importantly, keep God at the center of everything you do. Faith, gratitude, and persistence will take you further than fear ever could.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.macinspirations.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/macinspirations
Image Credits
Mignolia Rodriguez
