8 Candle Business Tips for Aspiring Candlepreneurs

Thinking about starting a candle business? Amazing! But it’s not just about mixing wax and scents; it involves running an entire operation and building your brand from the ground up—a full-blown entrepreneurial venture. You'll need to manage supplies, understand your market and develop products that stand out. 

So, whether you're experimenting in your kitchen or plotting your market launch, this guide provides targeted candle business tips to help you understand some of the complexities of the industry and get your products noticed. 

Below you’ll find some quick tips on establishing your candle brand and making your mark in the competitive home fragrance market.

Candle business tips to help turn your passion to profit

Tip #1: Do research on the candle market 

Dip your toes into the market before you pour your first candle. The global candle industry is not just hot—it’s on fire, projected to reach over $5 billion by 2026. Today's consumers are all about enriching their homes with that perfect blend of aroma and ambiance. 

Handcrafted candles are particularly in vogue. They tell a story, evoke nostalgia or turn a simple bath into a spa-like retreat. Entering this market means carving out a niche that resonates with consumers looking for something more than just a store-bought candle. 

Whether it's through eco-friendly practices, aromatic therapeutic benefits or artistically designed pieces, providing something distinct can set your brand apart in a bustling market.

Tip #2: Tap into candle trends

But today's candle fanatics aren’t just hunting for any old candle to stick on their shelves. They want an experience. Some are all about that comforting sound from wood-wick candles (it’s like a mini fireplace in your living room). Others are getting excited about candles shaped like Ancient Greek statues. 

Get the drift? Knowing what the crowd loves and getting creative with it might be your golden ticket. So, if you’re looking for some inspo, check out some candle trends to ignite your creations.

Tip #3: Learn who is raving about candles

The candle-loving community is vast and varied across European countries, so where should you set your sights? A lot depends on your product specifics, but here are some VIPs you should consider:

• Millennials (ages 25-40): This age group is instrumental in driving the handmade and artisanal product trend. Their penchant for personalised experiences and authenticity makes them a prime target. They value unique products with a story behind them.
  
  
• Gen Z (ages 7-24): This generation is known for its eco-consciousness and desire for sustainable and ethically produced items. They're also highly influenced by online trends and social media, making them potential consumers of niche products like handmade candles.

• Yoga and meditation practitioners: For those engaged in practices of mindfulness, candles play a significant role in setting ambience.
  
  
• Spa and wellness centres: These establishments often use candles to enhance their calming environments and might look for unique, handmade options.
  
  
• Special occasions and gift buyers: Candles are popular gifts for occasions like birthdays, anniversaries, housewarmings, and holidays. Handmade candles, with their unique touch, can be especially appealing for those looking to give something special and thoughtful.
  
  
• Supporters of small and local businesses: With movements like 'Shop Local' gaining traction, a significant number of consumers prioritise buying from local artisans and crafters over mass-produced items.
  
  
• Trend followers and bloggers: Influencers, especially those in lifestyle and home decor niches, have the power to drive trends. If a few key influencers champion the value of handmade candles, their followers—who often number in the thousands to millions—become potential consumers.

Tip #4: Make sure your brand is eco-conscious

Did you hear? Green is the new gold these days. That means people are looking for brands that care about the planet as much as profits. This is where you can give your business a real glow-up. Consider sustainable materials like soy or coconut waxes – packaging that the Earth would high-five you for – and be super clear about where you source. With that in mind, you can add eco-conscious customers to your target audience.

Tip #5: Employ powerful branding tactics 

We won’t lie to you, there’s a whole ocean of candle brands – it’s pretty crowded out there. But instead of cosying up with existing brands, employ powerful candle branding tactics to make your products stand out. Tell a compelling story, show off your unique personality and let people know why you're the bee's knees all through the medium of savvy marketing strategies. 

Tip #6: Don’t overlook your packaging 

Think of your candle’s packaging as its first handshake with potential buyers. If it feels good, they’ll want more. Clever candle packaging sets the stage for customer experience. Striking designs grab attention, sustainable materials speak to eco-conscious shoppers and unique unboxings can turn a simple candle into a shareable moment. This isn't just wrapping – it's an important part of your brand's story. Make it count, because in a shelf full of competitors, the bold and the beautiful stand out.

Tip #7: Invest time in financial planning 

Now, before you dive headfirst, let's talk money. Starting any business, candles included, means understanding what you're in for, cash-wise. There’s the wax, the scents, the wicks and maybe even a cute little shop (virtual or brick-and-mortar, your pick!). 

While it might feel overwhelming to think about the spend upfront, with the right game plan, your handmade candles could be flying off the shelves in no time. With this in mind, we’d advise coming up with detailed costing sheets of your candle-making supplies and marketing efforts to record your outgoing expenses and, hopefully not long after, the financial rewards!

Tip #8: Prepare for the unexpected

Now for some real talk. Every business, candle-making included, has its hiccups. Think supply chain mix-ups, the maze that is online marketing, or just figuring out the best wax supplier. But remember, knowing what might come your way is like having a map through the maze. 

Being prepared means you’re already halfway to solving any challenge that pops up. Here are some of our top strategies you can adopt to avoid or soften the blow:

• Use project management software: Tools like Asana or Trello can help you organise your production schedules, keep track of inventory and manage orders seamlessly. This way, you can stay on top of your tasks and address issues before they become real problems, ensuring your business runs smoothly.

• Build relationships: Regularly communicate with your suppliers. Strong relationships can lead to better terms and priority during high-demand periods. FYI: At NI Candle Supplies, we’re always keen to chat about candles! 

• Continuous learning: Digital marketing is ever-evolving. Attend webinars, enrol in online courses or join forums related to e-commerce to keep up with the latest strategies. Or if it just isn’t your forte, consider hiring a digital marketing specialist.

• Stay updated: Industry news, trend forecasts and even online candle-making communities can offer valuable insights into upcoming shifts in the market.
  
  
• Emergency funds: Financial hiccups can hit any business, so we recommend keeping a rainy-day fund to cover unexpected expenses.
  
  
• Golden feedback: Regularly engage with your customers. Their feedback can alert you to potential issues before they become significant problems.

Ready to glow ahead?

Starting your own candle business might feel like a big leap, but every great adventure starts with that first step. Along the way, there'll be some wax spills and maybe a few wobbly wicks, but that's all part of the fun. If you’re still doubting the prospect, why not spend some time weighing up the pros and cons? 

And remember, we're right here with you—shoot us a message anytime, or engage with our candle community below for more candle business tips and insights.

This article was updated in May 2024.