Ty Nelson, a junior finance and entrepreneurship double major, is the owner of Light the Path Candle Co. Balancing his studies and entrepreneurial spirit, Nelson is turning his passion for faith and creativity into something meaningful. His company offers handcrafted, competitively priced candles that not only create a warm atmosphere but also serve a greater purpose.
What is the story of your company? How did it start?
I came up with the idea for Light the Path while driving back to Samford after one of our school breaks. I’ve always had a mind that’s turning with new ideas and ways to create something, but my time in the business school has really helped shape those ideas into reality. I’ve always loved candles and the way they can make a room feel warm and inviting. Every summer, I’ve had the opportunity to serve as a counselor and senior counselor at Pine Cove Springs, where I’ve grown in my faith and developed a passion for sharing the gospel.
After this past summer, I felt called to find a way to bring light and encouragement into the darkness that can creep into our lives. That led me to start Light the Path, a business rooted in the mission to bring light into a world of darkness through Scripture and scent. Our goal is to share the hope, peace and joy found in God’s promises, encouraging others to walk in His light each day.
Why did you want to join Samford Startup?
Joining the Samford Startup program aligns perfectly with my goals to learn and grow as an entrepreneur. Having the chance to learn from successful mentors who share my faith-based values is exactly the kind of guidance I’m seeking. As a small business owner, finding trusted advice from experienced leaders is essential, and this program provides that opportunity.
How has the Samford Startup program supported your business?
The program has already given me motivation to keep growing—not just as a business owner but as a leader. I’m grateful that Samford invests time and resources into helping students pursue their dreams and turn them into reality. The new office and storage spaces are perfect examples of that support, and I’m excited to start using them.
What has been the most challenging part of launching your business? How did you overcome this?
The hardest part of starting Light the Path has been deciding how to allocate funds in ways that best support growth. Whether it’s investing in inventory or marketing, those decisions can be difficult to navigate. Seeking advice from others and experimenting with different approaches has helped me make progress, though there’s still room to grow.
How has the Samford Startup program helped you grow professionally?
Since I was recently accepted into the program, I’m just beginning to see the impact. I’ve already learned how important it is to be intentional about how I talk about my business and goals. Whether through social media or in-person conversations, wording and tone matter when communicating your mission.
What do you envision for your business?
I hope to see Light the Path candles sold in stores around Nashville and Birmingham that share the same mission and values. I also want to grow our social media presence to bring light to people’s feeds and encourage them through Scripture.
How is your business redemptive in a Christ-like manner?
Glorifying the Lord is the reason I started Light the Path. If I only sold a few candles but helped lead someone to an eternity with Jesus, this mission would still be a success. Of course, I want to grow a successful candle business, but even more, I want to use it to lead others to Christ.
How do you see your company having an impact on the Samford and Birmingham communities?
I hope to reach as many students as possible. Beyond supporting my business, I want my products to offer practical encouragement. I’d also love to connect with local Birmingham stores to share Light the Path candles with the wider community.
Why would you encourage other student entrepreneurs to join the Samford Startup program?
The Samford Startup program gives students the motivation and resources to grow personally and professionally. It provides a platform for student entrepreneurs to develop leadership skills, refine their ideas and connect with mentors who can help bring their dreams to life.
Learn more about Light the Path Candle Co.
