MYST is launching a new project called FUTURES – a series of outreach and events for young people to enable them to explore different careers and industries available to them – you can find out more about this project at www.futures.org.uk 

This week, as part of the project our Community Engagement Officer Laura chatted with Thomas who owns Teenage Melt Downs.

Q1. Hi Thomas, thank you for agreeing to chat with us! Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your business?

My name is Thomas and I’m 14, living in Thornton and I own Teenage Melt Downs.  I make wax melts, room sprays which are like air fresheners, hoover discs, carpet fresheners, toilet, sink and mop bombs, and car vent air fresheners. I also buy in and sell wax burners, tealight candles and bath bombs. 

Q2.  What made you want to start your own business? How long has it been running?

When I was 12, I asked my parents for a gaming computer and they said they didn’t have the money to buy one so I would have to save up and buy it myself. I asked my mum if I could start my own business and we had a look around at what I could do to make some money. I decided that I would like to try wax melts, so my mum got me a kit to see if I would like making them. I did, so then I bought more wax, more fragrances, more colours, more boxes and more jugs. Together we came up with the name Teenage Melt Downs, and I launched my brand in February 2021. 

I now have a store online, as well as a presence on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. I also sell my items at Primadonna, Netherton L30 and she has been a really big support from day one. 

I also managed to save up and buy my gaming pc, which has motivated me to do even more. I have big plans for my future. 

Q3.  What has been your biggest highlight so far?

Having the same customers come back to me is really good and makes me feel positive about my products. 

Q4.  When things don’t go to plan, how do you keep a positive mindset and attitude?

I don’t always stay positive, but my family support me to keep going and then it is easier for me to pick myself back up and have a positive attitude and mindset. 

Q5.  What advice would you give to a young person thinking of starting their own business?

It’s important to remember that not every business is successful, but a lot of people want to give kids our age  a chance to show that they can do it. Don’t spend all the money that you make, because you need to buy supplies. Give yourself a payday once a month and don’t take more than 50% out. Listen to what your customers want and if it fits with your business then try to supply it for them. 

Q6.  Where can people find you? Social media & website links, any upcoming stalls/events?

You can find me on Facebook, Snapchat, Instagram and TikTok at @teenagemeltdowns 

My online store is teenagemeltdowns.co.uk

My email is teenagemeltdowns@gmail.com

I will be at Bluebells Artisan Market on Saturday 16th September from 11am-4pm. This event is every month at Crosby United Reformed Church Hall on Eshe Road in Crosby. 

I’ll have more events coming up closer to Christmas. These will be confirmed on my social media pages closer to the time. 

It was so inspiring to chat with Thomas and we know that Teenage Melt Downs is destined for big things!