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MEET Julia Andriotis-Sharp | Candle Maker + Physical Therapist

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Tell us a little about yourself and what you do?

Julia | My name is Julia, and by day I’m a Physical Therapist Assistant. The rest of the time (more than just “by night”!), I’m the face behind Little Bison Co, a small batch, hand-poured candle company, with my husband Travis. Little Bison was born a little over a year ago, and our goal has always been to create unique scents that you love burning in and around your home. We believe in community and fellowship and real-life friendships, and we think that candles are an easy way to make your home feel inviting and welcoming. We want to create spaces that encourage conversation and relationships. We also believe in giving back to things bigger than ourselves! We give 10% of every purchase to a non profit benefiting orphans and vulnerable children.

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What did you want to be when you were a child?

Julia | I wanted to either be an Olympic figure skater or a firefighter!

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Who encouraged you to follow your passion?

I think and overthink. My husband is a go-getter. When we were playing with the idea of creating Little Bison, he jumped right in.

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Name some influential people in your life who have come along beside you?

Julia | The small business community in northwest Arkansas is amazing. We have made so many wonderful friends who are doing the same thing we are. It’s nice to talk with other creatives and realize that we’re all in this together, and none of us have it 100% together. There’s a lot of encouragement in community.

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What inspires you?

Julia | Nature. Being outdoors. There’s something about being out in the woods that clears your head. Most of our scents at Little Bison are inspired by nature.

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What is the most difficult thing about being an entrepreneur?

Julia | It’s all rewarding. But it’s also difficult. It’s difficult working a full-time job (that you love) and coming home to another job. It’s late nights and early mornings and busy weekends.

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What do you love about living here in NW Arkansas?

Julia | Everything! NWA instantly felt like home when I moved here four years ago. I love the funky culture of Fayetteville and the scooters when college kids are in town and Crystal Bridges and the Greenway trail. I love that the Ozarks are right out our backdoor and there are so many great, beautiful, wonderful places to hike and camp. The NWA community loves small businesses and shopping local, and I love that about us too!

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What is some advice you would give to an aspiring creative?

Julia | Don’t quit. Sometimes you’ll feel overwhelmed or unsure or uninspired. But those feelings move on & you’ll get excited again. Reach out and make connections with other creatives. Some of the best friends you’ll make are in this community. You’re not alone in this!

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Name some local creatives that you really admire.

Julia | Little Bison has had the opportunity to partner with some amazing local creatives! We’re obsessed with the ceramic work by both Faith Whittle and Willow & Stone. We’ve created custom scents for Hillfolk and Fork & Crust, both amazing local companies run by amazing local WOMEN! Some other small businesses we love and use in our home/lives are: Regenerous Designs, Maybry Makings, Little French Knots, Fibers & Fringe, Ginger, and Creek Baby. Check them out!

For more information on , find the on FACEBOOK , Little Bison Co. or you can visit their INSTAGRAM Here .

Or their OFFICIAL Webstite here : Littlebisonco.com

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