Tulsa Man Who Was Homeless Becomes Small Business Owner

A Tulsa man went from being homeless to becoming a small business owner.

“Candles have been my saving grace,” said Nehemiah McCreary. 

Nehemiah McCreary is no stranger to adversity.

Last year, at the peak of the pandemic, he was living on the streets.

“When I moved here, I was homeless. Didn’t have any friends – didn’t have any family,” said McCreary.

He said his life hasn't always been stable but one thing has, his love for candles.

Every single day while homeless, he said dreamed of starting a candle-making business.

“Just thinking about my candles helped me through the hardest times of my life,” said McCreary.

And now his dream is a reality and he calls himself the Tulsa Candle Man.

“I know my business is my way out – my candle business is my way out,” said McCreary.

He goes to art festivals, trade shows and uses social media to sell his candles.

Cinnamon, Fallen Leaves, Apple Harvest and his signature 'Black Excellence' are just a few of his many scents made inside his 'laboratory' in his apartment.

He's been overwhelmed with the community support, but he said it's only the beginning.

“This is just the first steppingstone of what God has for me.”

He gives a portion of his profits to help others experiencing homelessness.

McCreary said he's glad he stayed true to his pursuit of passion because he loves being a business owner.

“I love every bit of it. It’s my way to help to give back. It’s my way to thrive -- my way to prosper. It is my way to show the passion, love, and skill that God gave me,” said McCreary.

To learn more about Tulsa Candle Man visit his Instagram.