Have you ever thought of starting a candle business?
People love candles so much that this industry is estimated to fall into the category of billion-dollar businesses.
If you have a passion for candle-making and want to take it from a hobby to a fun and profitable business, now is a good time.
The candle-making business can be started with a small investment.
The following will discuss some steps to take for making your candle-making business dream come true. Let’s find out how to start a candle making business at home.
How is Your Business Unique?
As with most businesses today, there is a lot of competition. That means you need to have something that sets yours apart from the rest.
Things to consider:
- Catchy names
- Creative graphics
- Special scents
- Types of wax
- Unique containers
- Affordability
- Special packaging
Startup and Initial Costs
You only need a few things to get started in this business. Many people have started their candle business from their own kitchen using the following.
- Wax (gel, beeswax, soy, paraffin, etc.)
- Wicks
- Molds
- Dyes
- Essential oils (scent)
- Jars (or whatever containers you will use)
- Melting equipment (double boiler, or an industrial alternative)
- Packaging supplies
- Measuring tools
- Marketing solutions (website, business cards, ads (online and offline, social media and digital marketing)
At first, you may have some trouble estimating your initial costs, but you will get the hang of just what you need and how much in a short time.
Legal Side of Things
To make your hobby or passion into a profitable revenue stream involves dealing with a few legalities. Basically, you need to do these things to get the legal stuff out of the way.
- For a legal business entity (Sole Proprietorship, LLC, Partnership, etc.)
- Register to pay your taxes
- Obtain required licenses and permits (based on location)
Just make sure you set things up right, so you can make candles and sell them with peace of mind.
Finances and Banking
Even with the low investment of a candle business, you will need to separate your personal from your business finances.
Open a business banking account. This is the account where all things business will be handled. For instance, replenishing inventory, upgrading equipment, renting a space, etc.
You will fare better by keeping your funds separate. Use accounting software and look into business insurance to protect yourself.
Workspace Setup
You will want a workspace that is both efficient and safe. If you are working from your kitchen, be sure it’s a safe and efficient space. There may also be zoning laws in your area that could require a variety of compliance ideals to meet. This is mostly due to the fact that you will be working with heat and melting tasks.’
Keep these elements in mind:
- Well-lit workspace
- Space for “assembly line” process
- Room for all materials, equipment, and supplies
- Climate-controlled space for storing wax and candles
Also consider the need to update and upgrade your equipment.
Vendor Relations
While you may be able to get started with a candle-making kit, but if you plan to grow and make his your business and career, more supplies will be required than what you can find at the hobby store.
You’re going to need reliable and credible wholesale vendors from which to buy and deliver necessary supplies at lower, bulk pricing. You can then pass the savings on to your customers.
Remember, your candles will be only as good as the wax, dyes, scent, etc. you put in them. Choose a vendor that offers quality supplies for your business.
Make Candles
Start small by making fewer than 15 different candles, from basic to ornate. Pillar, floating, and votive for example in different jars. Don’t get overwhelmed or overthink this. You can always add more offerings as you go.
Start Selling and Build Your Brand
You’re not going to automatically have the most popular distributors on your side at this point, so you will be doing all the legwork yourself.
Local craft fairs/shows, and gift shops are good places to get started. Facebook Marketplace, Etsy, and eBay are also good starting places online. Be sure to share across social media outlets like Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, etc.
Use social media as well as offline advertising to build your brand.
Conclusion
As you grow, you will find more ways to enhance your revenues through specialized equipment, designs, ornamental candle molds, colors, scents, packaging, etc.
Being your own boss comes with accountability and responsibilities. Be sure to make quality candles that are unique to your brand, and provide solid and superior customer service to boost your credibility and reputation online and offline.
If candle-making is something you love or think you’ll love, today is a great time to get started with your new business. Now you know how to start a candle making business at home.
