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What is it like to own a candle business?
I'm interested in starting my own candle business. I'm looking for some advice on how to properly get started. I've been doing some research but I feel like I'm missing some information.
Thank you in advance!!!
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3 answers
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Gabriel’s Answer
PLEASE take this with a grain of salt. I share this with you because my wife makes crafts and sells them at fairs, etc. - but it is not her primary source of income.
If you are passionate about candles and nothing else in this world will make you feel complete - you have to do it. I get it.
The best advice I can give you...especially in this economy...figure out your end-game-goal. Are you trying to put Yankee and White Barn out of business? Are you trying to make something artesanal for a more local crowd?
I'm not saying you need to map your entire future out...but raw materials and manufacturing are going to be your greatest expenses.
My best advice...from dealing with small businesses in my neighborhood...talk to some local small-business (non-candle-based) owners. Buy them coffee or lunch. They will likely be sympathetic. That is the best dose of business-reality you will get...because they have done it. Not knocking colleges...just saying that...they have already done what you likely want to do.
You can do this!
If you are passionate about candles and nothing else in this world will make you feel complete - you have to do it. I get it.
The best advice I can give you...especially in this economy...figure out your end-game-goal. Are you trying to put Yankee and White Barn out of business? Are you trying to make something artesanal for a more local crowd?
I'm not saying you need to map your entire future out...but raw materials and manufacturing are going to be your greatest expenses.
My best advice...from dealing with small businesses in my neighborhood...talk to some local small-business (non-candle-based) owners. Buy them coffee or lunch. They will likely be sympathetic. That is the best dose of business-reality you will get...because they have done it. Not knocking colleges...just saying that...they have already done what you likely want to do.
You can do this!
Thank you Gabriel!
Kimberly
Updated
Marcelius Levites’s Answer
Honestly there's nothing more advice you can get. Have your product made and draw in customers. Have a get together with family and friends to test your products and create a website to sell your products.
Thanks for the advice.
Kimberly
Updated
Michele’s Answer
Hi Kimberly. We just came back from KY and what this one candle maker would do would be to recycle old bourbon bottles by cutting off the neck of them and filling them with the most wonderful candle scents and then reselling them and giving a portion of their proceeds to Disabled Veterans of America I believe. They sold them in the distilleries and also marketed them to the area campgrounds. Stay the course and follow your passion!
Thank you so much for the advice.
Kimberly