How To Start A Candle Business (Success Guide for 2023)

With more people looking to create cozy atmospheres in their homes, selling candles is fast becoming an attractive business idea for many.

A market valuation of $10+ million by 2027 and a growing compound annual growth rate of more than 5% make this market attractive.

This guide will share essential tips for starting your own candle business.

I’ll go over the basics, such as determining your business structure, sourcing materials and supplies, and marketing your products.

I’ll also cover more advanced topics, like developing customer loyalty and creating a brand identity.

Steps To Starting A Candle Business

Here is the step-by-step guide to starting a candle business.

Research The Competition In Your Area

Knowing what your competitors are doing will allow you to create a marketing strategy that gives your business an edge.

While you want your business to stand out, knowing what your target audience wants and how other companies approach the market can help set you apart from the competition.

In addition, identifying the target market you want to serve is critical to determining what type of candles you should focus on.

Develop Your Candle Business Plan

The right business plan software can help you formulate critical areas like your products’ business structure, financial projections, and marketing strategy.

Using a proven business plan template to create this document can help you ensure that all critical aspects are covered.

In the candle-making industry, a well-thought-out plan will allow you to anticipate potential issues that could arise when launching your business.

In addition, a marketing plan (more on this later) will help you understand how to reach potential customers and ensure they become aware of your product.

Register Your Business

Your business structure will dictate how you are taxed, how much legal protection you have, and how much required paperwork is.

A limited liability company (LLC) is one of the leading business structures for small business owners.

The distinction between your personal finances and the business’s funds helps to safeguard you in case of any legal issues linked to your company.

You can also choose a sole proprietorship when registering your business.

It requires less paperwork than an LLC but offers no protection from liabilities or debts incurred by the business.

When registering your business, choosing the right business name can go a long way toward helping you build your brand.

Consider Business Insurance

Getting business insurance protects your business from potential liabilities and debts.

Whether offering customers product liability protection or simply protecting your assets from theft, having the right policy in place can be essential.

Open A Business Bank Account

Having a separate business bank account allows you to track income and expenses associated with your business quickly.

In addition, a separate credit card makes it easier to keep spending on necessary items different from personal expenditures.

Acquire The Necessary Supplies

As business owners, the right supplies make running your candle-making venture efficient and cost-effective.

In the candle industry, basic supplies typically include wax, wicks, dyes or fragrances, molds, and containers.

Here, you should research what type of wax is best for your projects since this can significantly impact your results.

Typically, for homemade candles, your local craft store will have all the materials you need to produce high-quality products.

Be sure to stock up, so you stay supplied at a crucial moment.

Create Your Candle Products

As a candle-making business, putting your energy into creating the best product is paramount.

The candle-making process generally involves melting wax and adding desired fragrances, dyes, or coloring agents.

With potential customers in mind, ensure the finished product looks and smells great.

That way, customers will be more likely to purchase and return future products.

Price Your Candles

A successful business venture is one that not only produces a quality product but also prices it correctly to maximize profits.

Take the time to research what your competition charges and any costs associated with production and shipping.

Taking your small business to a full-time level requires being able to price products competitively yet still make a profit.

Setting thoroughly thought-out pricing strategies can help you achieve this goal.

Market and Promote Your Candles

From going in person to farmer’s markets to having your products in a retail store, promoting your candles through various avenues will increase brand awareness and sales.

Connecting with potential customers using social media platforms can also significantly spread the word about your products.

Consider Adding Additional Offerings

To boost your candle sales further, you can add complementary items such as scented candles and oils, wax melts, holders, and diffusers.

Offering additional products will increase overall revenue and attract new customers looking for more than just candles.

Monitor and Adjust As Needed

As you better understand your numbers and how your profit margins are affected by different strategies, make sure to adjust accordingly so your business remains successful.

Types Of Candles To Sell

The candle market offers customers a wide range of products and styles of candles, so it’s essential to determine which type of niche products you want to create and sell.

In addition, with tons of candle supplies and options available, finding the right source for your products can take time and effort if you decide to go down the reseller route.

Here are some of the most common (and in demand) types of candles you could consider selling.

Soy Candles

Soy wax is one of the most popular choices due to its environmental friendliness and affordability.

This wax holds a scent well and burns cleanly, making it an attractive option for customers.

Beeswax Candles

As bee wax melts higher than other candles, it can burn for long periods.

This fact makes beeswax candles especially popular with those seeking to enjoy their scent for an extended duration.

Paraffin Wax Candles

This candle wax is derived from petroleum, making it affordable and easy to find.

Paraffin wax can hold a scent well and is ideal for making better-smelling decorative candles.

Gel Candles

Mineral oil allows gel candles to burn longer than traditional wax varieties, making them a popular choice for consumers.

Also, gel candles are more aesthetically pleasing than conventional options as they can feature floating objects, such as flowers or shells.

Vegan Candles

Vegan alternatives are becoming increasingly popular due to the growing demand for cruelty-free products.

These vegan-friendly candles are usually made from vegetable-based waxes like rapeseed and soybean oil, giving them a natural appeal that appeals to environmentally conscious customers.

Luxury Candles

Luxury candles are often highly fragrant and made from premium materials like beeswax or soy wax.

These are usually more expensive than standard options, making them attractive for those looking for a high-quality product.

How To Make Candles

If you’re starting in the candle business, it’s essential to follow the proper steps for producing a quality product.

The following steps will guide you through the process of making candles.

Collect All The Necessary Materials

New business owners should focus on stocking quality supplies that produce excellent results.

A new candle business owner who can’t afford high-end materials may have to settle for cheaper alternatives to stay within budget limitations.

Choose A Mold For Your Candle

Candlemakers come in many shapes and sizes, from simple votive molds to intricate pillar designs.

Choose one that suits your creative vision while also considering the cost of production.

Measure And Melt The Wax For Your Candle Using A Double Boiler

Knowing how much wax to use is essential, as the amount affects both strength and burning time.

Using a double boiler helps to ensure that you don’t overheat the wax, potentially damaging any added fragrance oils or dyes.

Add Fragrance Oils, Dyes, And Other Additives

Various essential oils can add personalized scents to your candles, while dyes can give them unique colors.

Differentiating your candle business from competitors by adding unique elements is key to success.

Pour The Melted Wax Into The Mold

Carefully and slowly pour the wax into the mold, avoiding any splatter.

Place Wicks Into The Center Of The Candle Molds And Secure Them

Using a piece of clay or wax to prevent the wicks from moving around will help your candles maintain an excellent shape and burn evenly.

Let The Candles Cool Completely Before Removing Them From The Mold

This step is essential for your candles to hold their shape once you remove the molds.

Package Your Candles

Packaging can make all the difference when selling candles, so add that extra personal touch.

Using colorful labels, boxes, and more can make a big difference in one’s home decor.

Candle Scent Combinations

One of the best ways to differentiate your business and create unique products is to combine different scents into a single candle.

Here are some of the best combinations of fragrances to try.

Lavender and Rosemary

This classic combination provides a pleasant, herbaceous aroma that is calming and energizing.

Orange, Cinnamon, and Clove

This spicy trio is perfect for winter holidays or any time you want to evoke feelings of warmth and comfort.

Lemon and Eucalyptus

This zesty blend of citrus and herbal notes creates an invigorating scent that’s great for refreshing any space.

Cedarwood, Sandalwood, and Bergamot

A woody blend of earthy and citrus notes, this combination is perfect for anyone looking to add a touch of luxury to their home.

Jasmine and Vanilla

This sweet blend is an excellent choice for creating romantic moods or adding an air of sophistication to any setting.

How To Market Your Candle Business

Marketing is a crucial part of a business’s success, and there are several strategies you can use to promote your candle business.

Establish An Online Presence Through A Website

For beginners starting their candle company, creating a website is one of the best ways to show off your products, build a customer base, and cultivate sales.

A website can showcase your candle line and make it easier for customers to purchase your products directly.

Develop Relationships With Retailers And Wholesalers To Increase Your Distribution Channels

From joining the national candle association, networking with other businesses, or attending trade shows, building relationships with retailers and wholesalers can offer more opportunities to get your candles out into the world.

Utilize Affiliate Programs To Market Your Products To A Broader Audience

As you establish a brand and gain loyal customers, having an affiliate program gives people who love your candles the opportunity to share them with others.

Such a program can result in more sales and greater exposure for your business.

Where To Sell Candles

After your marketing and branding efforts, it’s time to think about the best places to sell your candles.

Here are some ideas.

Online Stores

Starting an e-commerce business can provide an excellent opportunity for selling your products online.

Building your own website can be a great way to reach a broader range of customers if you consider the shipping costs involved.

You can also consider platforms like Shopify, Etsy, and Amazon that can help you manage orders and process payments quickly.

These may be good options for you if you want to keep your startup costs low and increase your brand’s visibility.

Craft Markets And Festivals

Craft shows are a great place to have your product line up and show off your products.

As a startup, you might see the cost of setting up a booth at these events as an unneeded expense, but the exposure from the event can help you quickly build brand awareness and gain loyal customers.

Brick-And-Mortar Retail Stores

Approaching store owners and establishing partnerships with local retailers can benefit both parties.

It gives store owners access to unique products for their shelves while providing another avenue for selling your candles.

Wholesale Channels

The next step in growing your own business is to explore wholesale channels, such as wholesalers or distributors, that can provide you with access to larger markets.

By establishing relationships with these types of partners, you can maximize the reach of your product and open yourself up to a larger pool of potential customers.

Developing Customer Loyalty

Your brand identity is critical in creating an engaged and loyal customer base.

Having a unique story that resonates with customers, providing excellent customer service, and offering incentives such as discounts or referral programs are great ways to build long-lasting relationships with your customers.

Additionally, giving back to your community through charitable donations is another excellent way to build brand recognition and create positive associations around your company.

Furthermore, it helps show customers that you care about more than just making a profit.

All of these strategies can help you develop a solid customer base and increase your sales in the long run.

How To Start A Candle Business – FAQ

How Does Having My Own Website Help Create Candles That Stand Out?

Your website allows you to showcase your unique products and tell your story in a way that appeals to customers. It also makes it easier for customers to purchase from you directly, increasing your sales.

What Type Of Candle Makers Are There?

There are many different types of candle makers, such as container candles, votives, pillars, tapers, and tealights.

Each type has features that make it unique and appealing to customers.

Is My Business Name Important?

Your business name is essential as it helps build your brand identity.

You want to choose a name that resonates with customers and reflects your company’s values. It should also be easy for customers to remember and recognize.

Standing Out Can Be Difficult In A Mass Market Where Many Candle Makers Exist. What Are Some Ways To Differentiate Myself?

One way to stand out is by creating unique products with a distinct look and feel.

You should also focus on developing a solid brand identity and engaging with your customers through social media, blog posts, emails, and other marketing methods.

Additionally, offering incentives such as discounts or

Are Personal And Business Expenses Tax Deductible?

Only business-related expenses, such as supplies and inventory, are tax deductible.

Personal expenses, such as travel or meals, cannot be deducted – unless they are related to specific business activities or meetings.

Wrap Up.

Starting a candle business can be a great way to showcase your creativity and make some extra income. Whether you create one-of-a-kind pieces or mass-produce candles, there are several options for how and where to sell them.

While not all aspects will be apparent immediately, with some planning, research, and experimentation, you’ll be able to find the right combination of marketing and sales strategies to make your candle business successful.

Further reading on AdamEnfroy.com: The right ecommerce marketing strategies can help you reach a wider audience and grow your business.

Many business ideas with high-profit potential are attractive options for entrepreneurs looking to start their own businesses.

While there is no guarantee that any idea will lead to success, several low-cost options can help you get your business off the ground quickly and help mitigate risk.

If you want to know more, check out these low-cost business ideas with high-profit potential.