People often wonder when they get good at making candles is how to make good money with their candle making craft. The answer is pretty simple -- start a small candle making business. The truth is, people love candles and candles are a consumable item. Once the candles are consumed, people will always buy more. Customers are always looking for a unique twist on the average candle, and you just have to bring some unique and exciting candles to the marketplace.
by PatrickMcTigue


People often wonder when they get good at making candles is how to make good money with their candle making craft. The answer is pretty simple -- start a small candle making business. The truth is, people love candles and candles are a consumable item. Once the candles are consumed, people will always buy more. Customers are always looking for a unique twist on the average candle, and you just have to bring some unique and exciting candles to the marketplace.

A critical point to remember is that your candle making craft must be something that stands out in the eye of the consumer. Yankee and Old Virginia Candle Companies own the market on the standard, ready made scented candle in a jar. Unless you have access to a factory, 50+ employees, and a research department, you probably aren't going to compete in this market. This doesn't mean you can't make a significant profit in your new candle business, only that you must be creative and provide unique and exciting creations.

A great example of this is a lady in Lynchburg, Virginia, which happens to be the corporate home of Old Virginia Candle Company. She makes enough money with her candle making craft that she regularly advertises on television and gets orders from all over the country. She has developed her own personal technique in which she makes standard large scented candles in a mold. Then while the wax is still workable, she shaves into the candle creating a unique curled wax effect along the candle's sides. This is the type of unique approach you should strive to have in your own candle making craft.

Another factor that you must deal with as a beginner is accepting a smaller profit per candle. You simply can not expect to be able to price yourself into the market with your candle making craft right off the bat. You will not be able to charge prices that rival the bigger more established companies. The key is to not go overboard and sell yourself short. This seems like a tough balancing act, but it's really not. Just like when you were coming up with the best wax and wicks to use, do your research. See what your small business competitors are doing and make sure you are in that range.

Finally, to make a profit with your candle making craft, you must determine where you are going to sell your candles. It's probably best to begin selling to friends and family first and let the word spread. Another option is a local farmer's market. Also, check out the local consignment shops in your area. The Internet is another good way, but keep a couple of things in mind. First, there are some free sites like Etsy where you can sell for free, but this will limit your exposure. If you pay for your own site, this will add cost to the candles in the form of web development and promotion. You must decide if it is worth it to do either. You can make a profit with your candles, just remember these tips and plan accordingly.

Finally, to make a profit with your candle making craft, you must figure out where you are going to sell your candles. It's probably best to begin selling to friends and family first and let your business grow by word of mouth. This is always the best way to get started. Another option is a booth at a local farmer's market. Also, check out what is available in the local consignment shops in your area. The Internet is another good way, but keep a couple of factories in mind. First, there are some free sites like Etsy where you can sell for free, but this type of site will only provide you limited exposure. If you pay for your own site, this will add cost to your candles in the form of web development and advertising.. You must decide if it is worth your while it to do either. You can most certainly make a profit with your candles, just remember these tips and plan accordingly. Once you have a solid business plan, you are well on your way to profitability.

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