"It's not that simple to create a candle yourself," says Totem founder Maëva, who developed her entrepreneurial project during her studies at KEDGE Business School.

Indeed, candle-making requires the right equipment, patience and knowledge. But what if everyone could make their own candles easily, without all these constraints?

That's the aim of Totem, a young French startup that aims to democratize the Do it Yourself approach, giving everyone greater control and transparency over their own consumption, through a simple, fun experience.

"When you buy a candle, have you ever wondered what it's made of?" That's the question underlined by Maëva, our kedgeuse.

The vast majority of candles sold are produced with petroleum-based wax (kerosene) and allergenic fragrances. "Without realizing it, we inhale substances that are harmful to the environment, but above all to our health, when these candles are burned," says Maëva.

Totem allows you to personalize your natural candle kit by letting you choose the color of the wax (made from soy), an allergen-free fragrance, and biodegradable decorative elements such as sequins and dried flowers. As well as being recyclable, the kit can be reused thanks to a refill system. So you can make as many candles as you like, without worrying about the planet or your health! 💪

Maëva's background is rather atypical. She started out with a degree in Cinema and Audiovisual, before turning to a Master's in Management at KEDGE Business School.

🎓Initially enrolled on the MSc Art & Creative Industries Management course, she then chose to move onto the Master International Business, to deepen her knowledge of the world of commerce and entrepreneurship. Her project took shape during her first year of Master's at KEDGE Business School, notably through the Kedge Entrepreneurship Business Creators program.

Maëva is fighting for fairer, more responsible consumption, by offering a Made in France kit 🇫🇷, and natural products 🌿. Thanks to her recyclable, reusable kit to be used with a refill system, you save money on the purchase of your candles, and you can be sure of enjoying a unique candle that can last up to 60 hours of use.

"The pre-incubation program enabled me to determine many key factors, think through Totem's entire strategy, and get out of my comfort zone."

"From negotiating with suppliers, to creating content on social networks, the days are divided into multiple tasks that make her daily routine, a real stimulation despite the workload."

KEDGE is there for you. KEDGE Entrepreneurship has developed a range of three programs, each corresponding to a level of maturity of your project. Find out which program is best suited to your level of advancement, and get started!