By: Sueann Wickham
As we prepare for another Valentine’s Day, one entrepreneur is shedding new light on the age-old tradition of expressing affection through presents. Meet Carolann Correia, the 22-year-old dynamic mind behind “Lanterns by C,” a business that infuses creativity and a personalized touch into the art of gifting.
Inspired by the desire to elevate Valentine’s Day beyond the typical roses and teddy bears, Carolann has embarked on a journey that would not only redefine the concept of gifting but also illuminate the lives of those who receive her creations.
Valentine’s Day often serves as the genesis of new relationships. It also celebrates strengthened bonds and romantic plans for the future. For Carolann, it served as the spark that ignited the concept of “Lanterns by C” in February 2023.
Sharing her journey with Guyana Standard she articulated the genesis of her idea, where the conventional gave way to a more imaginative approach. She said, ”Valentine’s Day definitely sparked the interest in creating this business. I was thinking about how the Valentine’s Day gifts are usually basic—a rose, a teddy bear, a gift bag. Why not merge everything you’d like your loved one to have with a little bit more creativity?” 
What sets “Lanterns by C” apart is its ingenious blend of a lighting lantern with a gift package. Carolann expressed, “Lanterns by C, in my opinion, is different because I’ve never seen any gift package that is being sold locally that contains a lighting lantern.” This innovation transforms a typical gift into a dual-purpose delight, where the recipient can cherish the lantern as both a token of affection and a captivating decor piece.
For Carolann, Valentine’s Day is a canvas filled with the vibrant hues of red and white. As she delved into her creative process, she explained, “Valentine’s day, to me, is all about red, white, and love. My lantern package embodies that while accounting for colour scheme and the thoughtfulness that comprises the package.” Here, the personal touch becomes evident, as each lantern is crafted to encapsulate the essence of the occasion.
The journey from a creative spark to a fully-fledged business is often marked by pivotal decisions. Carolann shed light on the early stages of starting her business in 2023 revealing, “When I first had the idea of using lanterns, my next step was how to bring it to life.” She added that she placed meticulous thought into the idea and of course made the sacrifice of a financial investment hoping that she could turn her idea into a tangible, marketable product.
Choosing materials and designs is a crucial aspect of crafting lanterns that resonate with diverse occasions. Carolann shared her approach, stating, “The materials for my lanterns are simple; it’s the creativity that gives it the kick. I choose anything that I feel would complement the idea and the occasion.”
She added, “The packages can be tailored for any occasion. The items in the basket are personalized so outside of the usual Valentine Day red and white, persons can choose their own colours best suited for their partners. It’s about letting them honour their loved one in the best way possible you know?” This adaptability she said, ensures that each lantern is a personalized with an expression of love, resonating with the unique sentiments of the occasion it celebrates.
On that note, she was pleased to share that Lanterns by C will be expanding beyond Valentine’s Day to offer packages for birthdays, anniversaries, proposals, Mother’s and Father’s Day and simple appreciation gifts.
Like any burgeoning business, “Lanterns by C” faces its share of challenges. Carolann candidly acknowledged her difficulties in getting exposure, which is the main component for a thriving business. “I felt as if my content was not fully out there,” she noted. However, she remained optimistic and grateful for opportunities she received regardless. She is a firm believer in the “hand wash and mek hand clean approach” and looking ahead,is confident that her ambitious aspirations come to past. “I really hope that one day I can get big enough to have my own physical location,” she added.
Reflecting on her journey as an entrepreneur she said, as “Lanterns by C” took flight, heartwarming stories began to emerge. Carolann shared, “The first set of packages I created, the support I received was heartwarming. Doing the deliveries of the packages as a surprise to some also made me feel accomplished, seeing the smiles on the faces of the receivers.” These anecdotes she said, underscore the profound impact her lanterns have on special occasions, turning ordinary moments into cherished memories.
As Lanterns by C continues to illuminate the lives of those who receive these unique gifts, it’s clear that Carolann’s vision goes beyond the ordinary, creating a lasting impression in the hearts of her customers.
To view her creative gift lanterns, follow her using this name @[lanterns_by_c](https://www.instagram.com/lanterns_by_c/ “”) or contact her via WhatsApp at +592- 660-9123.
