Nicole Eckels said she had found it difficult but it was necessary if you wanted to grow beyond what you can handle personally. 

The founder of candle maker Glasshouse will be one of the speakers at Commerce Ballarat’s Business Day Out on May 25. 

The New York-native said by hiring people who understood her goals and motivation – another challenge – she could step back from some decisions. 

“That is a huge challenge for me, particularly for someone who is hands on like I am,” she said. 

“The most important thing is that everybody is clear about the strategy.” 

It would be hard for her to have a hand in every decision now, with her company selling from 800 shops shops and employing around 100 people. 

She said she hoped to flick a switch in some of the audience on her visit to Ballarat. 

“I see it like a basketball game,” she said. 

If you're playing basketball, you’re all standing around and nothing happens before the ball is in play.” 

“Hopefully I can get that ball in play for people and they start moving.” 

Ms Eckels own experience is exemplary for anyone who thinks they have a good idea. 

“She said she dove into making candles after finding a gap in the market. 

“I had no manufacturing experience, and I had to go from that, to a point where we had this company with a manufacturing facility, offices, staff,” she said. 

Her talk will look at “difficult times” as well but she said she experienced them in a different way because of her drive. 

“When you start a business like the way I did, nothing can stop you, you’ve got eyes on the ball like that.” 

Ms Eckels said her lessons would apply to anyone with the aim of “owning the customer” and establishing a brand. 

Ms Eckels will be joined by former Victorian premier and Beyondblue chairman Jeff Kennett, Channel Ten financial expert Jason Cunningham and social media expert Jordana Borensztajn. 

Registration for the event closes on May 18. Go to commerceballarat.com.au for more information.