Candle Business Questions Answered: Your Guide to Success

Starting or growing a candle business can feel overwhelming, especially with so many questions needing answers. In this blog, we’ll dive into the most common questions asked by aspiring candle makers and experienced business owners alike. From sourcing vessels to ensuring candle quality, we’ve got you covered!

Finding the Right Vessels in Bulk

One of the first hurdles many candle makers face is finding the right vessels in bulk at a reasonable price. Shauna, a member of our community, asked how to navigate this challenge. The key is to do your research and shop around.

We purchase our vessels from reliable suppliers like Can Science, Mak, and Filmore. Filmore is particularly great for Amber jars, and we also get our matte black containers from them. However, be cautious with suppliers that might not have consistent stock. If they suddenly run out, it could disrupt your business operations.

For those just starting out, consider using plain glass containers. They are the most cost-effective option and you can enhance their appeal with attractive labels. Our Classics collection uses vessels that cost less than a dollar, proving that you don’t need high-end vessels to create a beautiful product.

Buying in bulk is crucial. For instance, we purchase our more expensive vessels, like those with wood accents, in large quantities to save on costs—up to 25% during sales. Always keep an eye out for discounts and sales from suppliers to maximize your savings.

Addressing Sinkholes Around the Wick

Marianne raised an important question about how to prevent sinking around the wick in candles. This is a common issue, especially when pouring soy wax like the 464 variety we use. It’s important to understand that sinkholes can occur as the wax cools and pulls away from the wick.

The best way to combat this is to use a heat gun. Even if your candles look perfect on the surface, always heat gun around the wick to about an eighth of an inch deep. This process helps to ensure that any potential sinkholes are filled as the candle burns.

Don’t worry too much if you notice a sinkhole; it’s not a major issue unless it’s right under the top layer. As the candle burns, it will melt and fill in any gaps. The heat gun is your best friend in achieving a smooth finish and preventing self-extinguishing candles!

Strategies for Long-Term Success

Jodie asked how to ensure success in the candle business over the years. The first step is to build an email list. Social media platforms are constantly changing their algorithms, making it harder to reach your audience. However, email marketing remains a stable and reliable way to connect with your customers.

Capture emails at the point of sale and use them to keep your customers informed about new products and promotions. Diversifying your revenue streams is also essential. Explore different avenues such as markets, wholesale, and even corporate events to ensure steady income.

We’ve found markets to be lucrative, but they require time and effort. As our business grew, we shifted focus to wholesale, especially during slower months. January through April is an excellent time to reach out to retailers for holiday stocking. Remember, retailers plan ahead, so you need to initiate contact well in advance!

In addition to wholesale, consider offering offsite candle-making events. These can be corporate team-building activities or private parties, and they offer great potential for revenue while also promoting your brand.

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Where to Start Your Candle Business

Raven’s question about where to begin is one that many aspiring entrepreneurs ponder. The first step is aligning yourself with a community or mentor who is actively doing what you want to achieve. This can save you time and frustration.

Many people underestimate the challenges of starting a candle business. It’s easy to think it’s just melting wax and pouring it into containers, but there’s a lot more that goes into it. You might find yourself overwhelmed with conflicting information from different sources. Therefore, it’s crucial to find a reliable mentor or community to guide you through the process.

Online resources, such as YouTube tutorials, can be incredibly helpful. However, avoid jumping from one source to another too quickly. Stick with a few trusted creators and engage with them to learn from their experiences. Joining candle-making groups on social media can also provide you with support and accountability.

Sourcing Trays for Candle Making

DaMeka asked about sourcing trays for candle-making parties. When it comes to trays, you don’t need to invest heavily in fancy serving platters. We often use simple porcelain plates to hold our supplies during events. They are functional and easy to clean.

For larger setups, consider searching for rectangular serving trays on platforms like Amazon or The Container Store. Just be cautious about the materials, as some may not withstand the oils used in candle making. Always test a small amount first to ensure they won’t degrade.

Additionally, if you plan to conduct candle-making parties at people’s homes, use a waterproof tablecloth to protect surfaces from any spills. It’s a practical way to ensure you leave a positive impression while also protecting the customer’s property.

Conclusion: Join the Community

As we wrap up these questions, I encourage you to join our community. It’s a free resource where you can ask questions and connect with fellow candle makers. Whether you’re just starting or looking to grow, there’s always something new to learn.

Remember, every successful candle business started with a single candle. Embrace the journey, learn from your mistakes, and don’t hesitate to reach out for help along the way!

For more resources, you can download our candle-making supplies and tool checklist or check out our top-rated candle-making course. Let’s make your candle business dreams a reality together!