business plan of candle making

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How to Start a Candle Business: A Step-by-Step Guide

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We all like our homes to smell nice and to feel cozy. What better way to make this happen than by lighting some candles. Not only are they an affordable indulgence, but they also make great gifts and literally brighten any room.

If you’re considering starting a business and are passionate about wicks, soy blends, and mastering the perfect scent, then starting a candle business may be the perfect fit for you. Keep reading to learn how to start a candle business.

How to start a candle business in 7 steps

Starting a candle business is a lot of work, but can also be very rewarding. Before you let your excitement take the lead, pause and consider following some of these steps first. To give your candle business the best shot at success, you’ll need to get all of your financial, legal, and marketing ducks in a row.

Step 1: Perfect your craft

When a candle is good, it can help you destress, add a decorative flair, or set the mood. But when a candle is bad, it can be a disaster. A candle can smell too sweet. Too floral. Too smoky. Or, the scent can be so weak it winds up smelling like nothing at all. Essentially, it’s easy to step too far in one direction and make a candle that no one wants to burn. Before you go through the process of starting a candle business, you’ll want to brush up on the basics of how to make a good candle and develop a few signature scents. You’ll need to master how to ensure a good burn time, how to make a scent that permeates a room, and how to create a scent that people will love.

You’ll also want to define what will make your candle line stand out. Will each candle be inspired by a different exotic location? Will you use really unique glassware to house your candles? Will you have witty names that make your candles perfect for gifting? A good scent and an affordable price point will get you far in the candle game, but you’ll also need to make sure there is a way for your brand to stand out in a very saturated market.

Step 2: Create a business plan

Making candles is a creative process. Not to mention fun. Which is why it may be hard to tear yourself away from your experimenting to write a business plan. But writing a business plan is a creative endeavor too. And a little bit analytical. So put both sides of your brain to work, because the process of creating a business plan will prove invaluable to you throughout the life of your business.

A good business plan will contain several sections that can help keep your business on the right path as well as show your value to any potential investors or lenders. Ideally, you’ll do this step before starting a business, but it’s never too late to whip one up. Having a business plan will make the process of growing your business so much easier and can help you introduce the important details of your candle business to others. If you’re nervous about creating a business plan from scratch, consider using a business plan template or business plan software that can help you through the process.

Choose a business name

If you haven’t already chosen your business name, doing so while you’re in the process of pulling together your business plan is a good idea. Try to come up with a catchy business name that will stay in customers’ minds while also describing what kind of business you run. Of course, you’ll want to double check that your chosen name is actually available before moving forward with it. Confirm your desired name’s availability with your secretary of state’s website to see if your chosen business name is currently in use. Doing a simple Google and trademark search can also be helpful. If your desired name is free and clear, make sure you reserve your domain name and social media handles before someone else grabs them.

Choose a business entity

Another benefit of writing a business plan is that it will encourage you to choose a legal structure for your business. Choosing the right business entity is very important and a decision that should not be taken lightly. A few common forms of business entities are sole proprietorship, general partnership, limited liability company (LLC), and corporation.

If you’re struggling to decide what type of business structure you should choose, consulting a business attorney or tax expert can help. The extra expense may save you a lot of stress down the line, as the type of business structure you choose will affect your taxes, risk level, and other important factors. After you’ve chosen your business entity, you will register your candle business with the necessary federal and state agencies.

Define your products and services

Are you planning on selling candles? How about essential oils or reed diffusers? Will you take custom candle orders? You’ll need to define exactly what types of products or services your business will offer. Ask yourself the following questions in order to better understand what your products and services will be.

What type of scent-based products will you sell?

What will you charge for them?

Where will you purchase your candle supplies?

How much will these supplies cost?

How much will production cost?

Now that you have a business plan, you can use it moving forward to help guide your candle business.

Step 3: Get the proper licenses, permits, and insurance

This may not be the most fun step in the road to starting a candle business, but it is an important one. When you start a business, you’ll have to ensure you’re obtaining the proper licenses, permits, and insurance required by your local and federal government. These requirements will vary based on your location, business type, and chosen business structure. Chances are, you’ll require multiple business licenses at the state, federal, and local level. If you need help getting started, the SBA is a great resource, as is your local chamber of commerce.

Does your business require employees to help it run? Then you’ll need to obtain your employer identification number (EIN), which is required for tax purposes. Even if you don’t plan on hiring soon, there are some pretty valuable benefits of getting an EIN you should think about.

Something else worth looking into is business insurance , especially if you’ve hired employees. In that case, you may need to carry workers compensation, unemployment, or disability insurance. General liability and commercial property insurance may also be necessary. You should check with a business lawyer to make sure you have the right coverage for your business—especially when you consider the fact that as an owner of a candle business, you’ll be working with flammable materials. Do your due diligence and research your local fire codes and speak with your insurance representative about your fire coverage needs.

Step 4: Decide where to sell your goods

Where are you planning to sell your candles? How about online, in a boutique, or at your local farmers market? You can always open your own storefront, but maybe you want to start small at first and sell your candles to local boutique owners. Consider all the options available to you and don’t be afraid to start small while you build brand loyalty and get customer feedback.

If you want to sell online, but aren’t ready to launch your own ecommerce website, you can always sell your candles on a digital marketplace like Amazon or Etsy . There are countless helpful ecommerce platforms you can choose from, so take your time investigating which is the best fit for your business.

Step 5: Find small business funding

It’s a cliché, but sometimes it takes money to make money, and starting a candle business is no exception. In order to pay for supplies, marketing, production, insurance, legal council, and more, you’ll may need some sort of business funding. Start by considering the following funding options.

Business lines of credit : A more flexible form of credit than a standard business loan, a business line of credit provides you with a set amount of money that you can choose to draw from only when you need it.

Business credit cards: Newer business owners may be better off with a business credit card , as they require less credit history than a loan. Generally, you can find a 0% intro APR credit card, which is like having an interest-free loan if you pay off your balance before the introductory offer is over and a variable APR sets in.

Equipment financing: If your business requires expensive equipment, then equipment financing may be your best option. Generally for this type of financing, a lender loans money specifically to purchase equipment. They then use this equipment as collateral for the loan.

Startup funding: A brand-new business owner should consider startup financing options such as SBA microloans or a business grant . Crowdfunding has also become a popular option for easy startup funding.

Once you obtain your funding or begin to rack up expenses or earn income, you should take steps to keep your business and personal finances separate from each other. Then, consider finding an accounting software program to manage your business’s financials.

Step 6: Find and manage candle supplies

At first, you may be able to just pop over to your local craft supply store to get some wax and scents for your candles. But once your business begins to grow, you’ll save a lot of money by buying supplies in bulk from a wholesale supplier. You’ll want to start sourcing affordable supplies straight away so you can test for quality and find the right supplier for you. Some candle making supplies you might need are:

Wax such as paraffin, gel, soy, beeswax, or another type

Containers for candles

Fragrances such as essential oils

Coloring agents

Shipping and packaging supplies

Before you place any large orders, you should plan out how much inventory you will need and how you will manage it. Not only will doing so make finding suppliers easier, but you can begin to form a reliable inventory system. You may want to consider using an inventory management app to organize the comings and goings of your candle making supplies.

Step 7: Start marketing your candles

Once you’ve chosen your business name and started to develop your brand, you can market your business. Word of mouth is ideal, but you can’t rely on it. This is why having a well thought out marketing plan will come in handy. You’ll want to start by thinking of what your candle’s selling points are. Do they last longer than others? Smell stronger? Are they made from more sustainable ingredients? Identify what your main selling point is and how you can best present that message to potential customers.

Social media is a free, fun, and easy place to start. You might want to identify which channels would be best for your business and begin to build a presence on them. Email marketing is also an affordable option worth considering. The best part about social media and email marketing is that your customers choose to sign up for your advertisements. You have a captive audience, so take advantage of that fact.

The bottom line

If you really want to take your candle business to the next level, the steps above can help you pair your passion for candles with a solid plan for execution. The end reward could be a candle business that offers profit and creative joy for years to come.

On a similar note...

Candle Making Business Plan Template

Candle making business plan.

You’ve come to the right place to create your Candle Making business plan.

We have helped over 1,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans and many have used them to start or grow their Candle Making businesses.

Below is a template to help you create each section of your Candle Making business plan.

Executive Summary

Business overview.

The Countryroad Candle Company is a startup candle manufacturing company located in Augusta, Georgia. The company is founded by Emily Reynolds, a creative and driven individual who wants to turn her favorite pastime into a thriving business. Emily has a background of seven years in marketing housewares to the retail sector and she has a keen eye for design, which brings her to the startup phase of her candle making company.

Countryroad Candle Company will provide a wide array of candles in scented, decorative and pure iterations of the concept Emily Reynolds is bringing to the company. Each candle will have unique properties, including a small candle within each large candle, which doubles the light and beauty of the decoratives on the candles. This unique feature has not been shared or adopted by anyone else, hence Emily has the drive to get this unique candle making product line into the market.

Product Offering

The following are the services that Countryroad Candle Company will provide:

• Small to large uniquely-designed candles, in sizes of 3 to 8 inches in diameter and in height up to 17-inches.
• A selection of carefully curated candle holders, glass bases, and other complementary items to highlight the candles.
• Candle accessories, including candle snuffers, long decorative matches, and scented bottled oils to add to the fragrance of the candles.
• 12-pack cartons for sale at retail; 6-pack boxes for sale to smaller shop or outlets.
• Single candle pricing for sale online, in addition to 12-pack cartons
• Special discounts for disabled or elderly individuals who will use candles for healing properties

Customer Focus

Countryroad Candle Company will target all consumers in the greater Atlanta area. They will target retail stores and store chains. They will target gift shops, flower shops and other related independent stores in the region of Atlanta. They will target event venues, party planners and event coordinators.

Management Team

Countryroad Candle Company will be owned and operated by Emily Reynolds. She has recruited Sarah Thompson, the former production manager of her last employer, a large candle making company called Glow & Co.

Emily Reynolds is a graduate of the University of Georgia, where she graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing. She previously was employed by Glow & Co., but decided to branch out and create unique candles that would offer new designs and new fragrances to the boutique candle offerings of the area. Emily’s stellar marketing efforts and courtesy with clients led her former employer to win the 2022 title of “Best Customer Service in Atlanta.”

Sarah Thompson has been creating and overseeing the manufacture of candles for over thirty years. She specializes in long-burn candles and produces the combination of ingredients that lead to fragrant, high-end candles with a beauty that cannot be surpassed. The new company offers her an opportunity to create distinctive “candle within a candle” design and manufacturing experience and she’s excited to begin the tasks ahead. She has the expertise and extensive background in candle-making to produce superior candles with the practicality of high burn time combined with stellar beauty.

Success Factors

Countryroad Candle Company will be able to achieve success by offering the following competitive advantages:

• Friendly, knowledgeable, and highly-qualified team at Countryroad Candle Company
• Extensive product line of unique candles, with properties that are highly-desirable.
• Curated candle accessory assortment prepared and vetted for retail sales
• Packaging in quantities that will support all retail customers, small to large
• Industry knowledge and contacts that are extensive and international
• Countryroad Candle Company will offer the best package pricing for the highest-quality candles offered. Discounts will also apply to disabled and elderly customers who use the candles for healing properties.

Financial Highlights

Countryroad Candle Company is seeking $200,000 in debt financing to launch its Countryroad Candle Company. The funding will be dedicated toward securing the office space and purchasing office equipment and supplies. Funding will also be dedicated toward three months of overhead costs to include payroll of the staff, rent, and marketing costs for the various marketing strategies to be employed. The breakout of the funding is below:

• Office space build-out: $20,000
• Office equipment, supplies, and materials: $10,000
• Three months of overhead expenses (payroll, rent, utilities): $150,000
• Marketing costs: $10,000
• Working capital: $10,000

The following graph outlines the financial projections for Countryroad Candle Company.

Company Overview

Who is countryroad candle company.

Countryroad Candle Company is a newly established candle design and manufacturing company in Atlanta, Georgia. Countryroad Candle Company will offer unique candles, designed with beauty and carrying delightful fragrances, to the retail markets of the Atlanta region. The candles will be a proprietary offering by Countryroad Candle Company and the production of the candles is a patented process. Countryroad Candle Company will provide a mix of carton and box packaging assortments so that customers can purchase in bulk or in smaller configurations to suit their retail outlets. Their full-service approach includes a comprehensive price structure and delivery options to suit every buyer.

  Countryroad Candle Company will be able to bring a new aspect of candle-making to the candle customers within the housewares and giftware industry sector, providing a superior product line and one that contains both practicality and beauty combined. The team of professionals are highly-qualified and the production manager is a seasoned veteran at candle-making and all aspects of packaging and shipping products. Countryroad Candle Company offers everything that other candle manufacturers cannot: a unique product line, beautiful decor on each candle, fragrances that complement each candle and packed cartons in a variety of sizes for all levels of retail.

Countryroad Candle Company History

Since incorporation, Countryroad Candle Company has achieved the following milestones:

• Registered Countryroad Candle Company, LLC to transact business in the state of Georgia.
• Has a contract in place at one of the Atlanta area buildings to set up its candle-making production line and office space within 10,000 square feet.
• Reached out to numerous former buyers and associates to announce the establishment of the new business and discuss advance orders.
• Began recruiting a staff of six and office personnel to work at Countryroad Candle Company.

Countryroad Candle Company Services

The following will be the services Countryroad Candle Company will provide:

Industry Analysis

• The candle manufacturing industry is expected to grow over the next five years to over $190 million.
• The growth will be driven by an increased number of consumers using candles for self-healing and stress-relieving properties.
• The growth of the demographic strata of Gen Z, Millennials, and other younger-aged groups who will use candles extensively in homes, offices and areas of relaxation.
• The growth of fragrances with known healing properties and their use in candles.
• The increased number of wedding and party planners looking for unique lighting.
• Costs will be reduced by lower-priced candles imported into the U.S.
• Costs will also be reduced by sales online, reducing the need for transport of goods.
• The industry sector of candle manufacturing is on the rise and outsourcing of materials, marketing strategies, procurement, etc. will lower the costs overall, as well.

Customer Analysis

Demographic profile of target market.

Countryroad Candle Company will target residents within the Atlanta, Georgia region. This includes outlying communities and targets in the general Georgia area. They will target consumers in age from 12 years to 99 years. They will target those individuals who use candles as part of self-healing exercises or as naturopathic wellness support. They will target event planners and party coordinators. They will extensively target retail buyers and retail chain buyers to purchase quantities of candles at reasonable prices.

Customer Segmentation

Countryroad Candle Company will primarily target the following customer profiles:

• Small to large retail buyers for gift stores, flower shops, large chains
• Event planners and wedding coordinators
• Disabled and elderly who use candles for wellness
• Spas and med spas; natural health clinics

Competitive Analysis

Direct and indirect competitors.

Countryroad Candle Company will face competition from other companies with similar business profiles. A description of each competitor company is below.

Karlan’s Gift Supply

Karlan’s Gift Supply is a large wholesale company that supplies retail stores with products made in local or regional manufacturing companies. This is an indirect competitor to Countryroad Candle Company, as Karlan’s Gift Supply does not carry candles or candle accessories. However, the wholesale company does carry a variety of related gift products and is well-known for advantageous pricing.

Bridget Karlan started Karlan’s Gift Supply twenty years ago and has grown the company into a 2M wholesale business. She is frugal in purchasing her wares and she is rigid in demanding prices to cover her targeted profit margins of 55% and up. She has very wisely created a powerhouse wholesale supply company.

Glow & Co.

Glow & Co. is the former employer of Emily Reynolds and Sarah Thompson. As a direct competitor, Glow & Co. sells candle assortments and individual candles into the retail gift and specialty markets throughout the southern region of the U.S.

Glow & Co. is a ten-year-old company founded by Nick Parsons, the son of a candlemaker father who engaged his family of fifteen in the business with him. The father passed the company on to his son ten years ago and, during the ensuing time, the son changed the name of the company and expanded it exponentially by selling candles of all kinds in several configurations and pack sizes. All current offerings are imported from Asia and carry low price points as a result. There are no unique designs or fragrances in the current product line.

Hanson’s Tabletop Company

Hanson’s Tabletop Company is a high-end design company that sells multiple gift and houseware products into retail. The company does not manufacture candles, but acquires candles and all other products via importing. The company holds a design office in the large Atlanta Gift Market in downtown Atlanta and sells curated product lines to national chains in addition to local retailers who want to place small orders.

Hanson’s Tabletop Company sells a variety of candles and candle accessories. The company owners, Teri and Craig Walters, are enthusiastic about the trend-forward designs in candle manufacturing and rarely purchase standard candles in case packs. They purpose one-of-a-kind candles and hope their suppliers can fill any voids when designs become popular.

Competitive Advantage

Countryroad Candle Company will be able to offer the following advantages over their competition:

Marketing Plan

Brand & value proposition.

Countryroad Candle Company will offer the unique value proposition to its clientele:

• Highly-qualified team of skilled employees who are able to provide a unique product line that is both decorative and fragrant to be sold into the retail market.
• The team of employees will also offer a variety of packaging sizes and pricing that adjusts with quantity sizes.
• Discounts for disabled and elderly customers who use candles for self-healthing or wellness.
• Reasonable pricing for retail clients that enables everyone in any sized retail business to purchase on a regular basis with profitable outcomes.

Promotions Strategy

The promotions strategy for Countryroad Candle Company is as follows:

Word of Mouth/Referrals

Countryroad Candle Company has built up an extensive list of client contacts over the years by providing exceptional service and expertise to their former clients. With the announcement of the new company launching soon, these clients were approached and have agreed to purchase retail candle supplies from Countryroad Candle Company. The wide range of packaging plus the unique properties of the candles has encouraged buyers to make initial orders early.

Professional Associations and Networking

There are several professional associations which Emily Reynolds and Sarah Thompson have already joined. Their networking efforts will intensify with this new company and they will offer special packages for first-time buyers.

Print Advertising

Direct mail efforts will be employed in the two weeks prior to the launch. Every buyer will receive a promotional package announcing the launch of Countryroad Candle Company and will be offered special discounts for purchases made in the first month of the company.

Website/SEO Marketing

Countryroad Candle Company will utilize their website as an informational outlet and as a place for smaller retail establishments to order. The website will be well organized, informative, and list all their products and services that Countryroad Candle Company provides. The website will also list their contact information and list their available candles in stock or on hand. Their website presence will contain SEO marketing tactics; anytime someone types in the Google or Bing search engine “candle company selling to retail” or “candle company near me”, Countryroad Candle Company will be listed at the top of the search results.

The pricing of Countryroad Candle Company will be moderate and on par with competitors so customers feel they receive excellent value when purchasing their services.

Operations Plan

The following will be the operations plan for Countryroad Candle Company. Operation Functions:

• Emily Reynolds will be the Owner and President of the company. She will oversee all staff and manage new client relations. She has spent the last year recruiting the following staff:
• Sarah Thompson will be the Production Manager of the company. She will curate, plan and oversee operations of the candle-making process at the company and will work with Emily Reynolds to effectively add decorative and fragrance elements to each candle design.
• Tad Newsom will be the Production Facilities and Maintenance Manager, overseeing the maintenance and any needed repairs of the facility.
• Shelia Abramson will be the Shipping Manager. As such, she will oversee the packing and shipping process as cartons and packages are prepared for shipment to retail.

Milestones:

Countryroad Candle Company will have the following milestones completed in the next six months.

• 5/1/202X – Finalize contract to lease manufacturing and office space
• 5/15/202X – Finalize personnel and staff employment contracts for the Countryroad Candle Company
• 6/1/202X – Finalize buyer orders for Countryroad Candle Company
• 6/15/202X – Begin networking at industry events
• 6/22/202X – Begin moving into Countryroad Candle Company facility and office
• 7/1/202X – Countryroad Candle Company opens its doors for business

Financial Plan

Key revenue & costs.

The revenue drivers for Countryroad Candle Company are the wholesale prices they will charge to the buyers for their products and services.

The cost drivers will be the overhead costs required in order to staff Countryroad Candle Company. The expenses will be the payroll cost, rent, utilities, office supplies, and marketing materials.

Funding Requirements and Use of Funds

Countryroad Candle Company is seeking $200,000 in debt financing to launch its candle-making business. The funding will be dedicated toward securing the manufacturing facility and office space and purchasing office equipment and supplies. Funding will also be dedicated toward three months of overhead costs to include payroll of the staff, rent, and marketing costs for the marketing strategies and association memberships. The breakout of the funding is below:

Key Assumptions

The following outlines the key assumptions required in order to achieve the revenue and cost numbers in the financials and in order to pay off the startup business loan.

• Number of Purchase Orders Per Month: 56
• Average Sales Revenue per Month: $53,000
• Office Lease per Year: $100,000

Financial Projections

Income statement, balance sheet, cash flow statement, candle making business plan faqs, what is a candle making business plan.

A candle making business plan is a plan to start and/or grow your candle making business. Among other things, it outlines your business concept, identifies your target customers, presents your marketing plan and details your financial projections.

You can easily complete your Candle Making business plan using our Candle Making Business Plan Template here .

What are the Main Types of Candle Making Businesses? 

There are a number of different kinds of candle making businesses , some examples include: Scented Candles, Specialty Wax Candles, and Novelty Candles.

How Do You Get Funding for Your Candle Making Business Plan?

Candle Making businesses are often funded through small business loans. Personal savings, credit card financing and angel investors are also popular forms of funding.

What are the Steps To Start a Candle Making Business?

Starting a candle making business can be an exciting endeavor. Having a clear roadmap of the steps to start a business will help you stay focused on your goals and get started faster.

1. Develop A Candle Making Business Plan - The first step in starting a business is to create a detailed candle making business plan that outlines all aspects of the venture. This should include potential market size and target customers, the services or products you will offer, pricing strategies and a detailed financial forecast. 

2. Choose Your Legal Structure - It's important to select an appropriate legal entity for your candle making business. This could be a limited liability company (LLC), corporation, partnership, or sole proprietorship. Each type has its own benefits and drawbacks so it’s important to do research and choose wisely so that your candle making business is in compliance with local laws.

3. Register Your Candle Making Business - Once you have chosen a legal structure, the next step is to register your candle making business with the government or state where you’re operating from. This includes obtaining licenses and permits as required by federal, state, and local laws.

4. Identify Financing Options - It’s likely that you’ll need some capital to start your candle making business, so take some time to identify what financing options are available such as bank loans, investor funding, grants, or crowdfunding platforms.

5. Choose a Location - Whether you plan on operating out of a physical location or not, you should always have an idea of where you’ll be based should it become necessary in the future as well as what kind of space would be suitable for your operations.

6. Hire Employees - There are several ways to find qualified employees including job boards like LinkedIn or Indeed as well as hiring agencies if needed – depending on what type of employees you need it might also be more effective to reach out directly through networking events.

7. Acquire Necessary Candle Making Equipment & Supplies - In order to start your candle making business, you'll need to purchase all of the necessary equipment and supplies to run a successful operation.

8. Market & Promote Your Business - Once you have all the necessary pieces in place, it’s time to start promoting and marketing your candle making business. This includes creating a website, utilizing social media platforms like Facebook or Twitter, and having an effective Search Engine Optimization (SEO) strategy. You should also consider traditional marketing techniques such as radio or print advertising. 

Learn more about how to start a successful candle making business:

• How to Start a Candle Making Business

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Starting your own candle making business

Are you thinking about starting a candle making business? The idea can seem daunting, but it’s a worthwhile endeavor. We began as a small family business, but we’ve grown since our formative years. We’ve learned valuable lessons along the way, but let's start with the most important: The most successful businesses begin because someone is passionate about something, and they want to share what they love with others.

In this guide, we'll help you decide if a candle making business is right for you, and we'll go over the steps to get started.

Candle making business: a blueprint for success

If you’ve been thinking about starting a candle making business, use this guide as a blueprint for the first steps. If you’re still on the fence about whether a candle business is right for you, consider some of the reasons candle business owners love entrepreneurial life:

• Have the freedom to do work you actually enjoy: Spending the majority of your time doing work that you don’t really care about is exhausting. Doing work you enjoy is energizing, rewarding, and more meaningful than feeling like you’re stuck in a job you don’t love. 
• Build and invest in something you own: Similar to buying a home instead of renting, investing in something you own helps to ensure that you get to reap the benefits of the work you’re spending time on every day. Working for someone else can feel a little like paying towards someone else's mortgage. 
• Determine your own schedule and day-to-day activities: If you want to book an appointment or need a day off, the only person you have to consult is yourself. Being your own boss means having ownership of your time. If you’re tired of your work schedule dictating how you spend your time, then owning your own business is likely something you’d enjoy. 
• Showcase your creativity and passions: Candle makers are creatives, but sometimes it’s hard to find an outlet for creative expression. Starting a candle making business means that you’ll have an opportunity to show off and monetize your creativity in the form of candles, wax melts, marketing, and creating content.

Handmade crafts, like candles, are some of the fastest-growing small businesses in the country. According to the National Candle Association, candle sales in the U.S. are estimated at over $3 billion per year. Here are a few more reasons why candles are a fantastic business opportunity:

• A thriving, high-demand market: Did you know 7 out of 10 U.S. households use candles? People love quality handmade products and supporting locally owned businesses. Uniquely branded candles are some of the most popular home decor items on the market, and are always popular gifts. 
• Start your business from your home: You don’t need a lot of equipment or space to hit the ground running, just basic supplies, tools, and a workspace. Most candle business owners start out in their kitchen! 
• High return on investment: What might cost you $5 can be sold for $20 or more. You can market your candles through gift stores, craft malls, and farmers markets, online through outlets like Etsy, or on your own website.
• Ample free resources available: When you launch a candle business, you’ve joined a community of fellow crafters and entrepreneurs where you can share resources and knowledge. We hope we’re a go-to resource for candle makers starting out, but if we don’t fit your needs there are plenty of other free resources available!

Candle business feature story: Bright Black

Tiffany and Dariel, the founders of Bright Black, create candles with a purpose.

Candle business inspiration story: Frères Branchiaux Candle Company

Brothers Collin, Austin, and Ryan Gill are the dedicated young entrepreneurs behind Frères Branchiaux Candle Company.

Planning for success in 8 steps

No matter the size of your enterprise, creating a business plan is essential. It helps you think about the future, establish the foundation of your brand, and build a framework for success. In this section, we’ll highlight 8 steps to build a practical and functional plan.

Keep it short and simple, and don’t stress about getting all the details together perfectly. Getting started can be the hardest part, but you can always come back to it later. Your objectives and business structure are likely to change and adapt over time, especially in the early months.

Take some time to familiarize yourself with these 8 steps, then check out our two downloadable candle business planning worksheets.

• Candle business checklist
• Candle business plan template

1. Develop your "pitch"

Think of this as your elevator pitch. Developing a strong, concise pitch helps to hone your mission and connect with customers. To get started, define your “who” and “what” in one to two short sentences. The “who” describes the core focus of your business, and the “what” describes the value you bring to customers. An example: “Good Boy Candle Co. makes unique scented candles with unusual, memorable names targeted to dog lovers.” 

2. Define your target market

Deciding where your business fits in the broader candle marketplace is an important step. Consider developing your candle line around one of these three target markets:

• Mass-market: Typically affordable candles are found in many retail stores. These candles often use economical containers and packaging and feature traditional scents like pine and vanilla. Price range: $8 to $15
• Mid-market: Candles with broad appeal are commonly found in outlets like Target, Macy’s, or even locally owned boutiques and gift shops. You can expect candles that have higher quality packaging, unique scent combinations (such as Green Tea and Lemongrass or Sea Salt and Orchid), and place a higher value on brand story and image. Price range: $16 to $34
• High-end or “prestige”: Good examples are luxury stores that command a premium price like Nordstrom, Saks Fifth Avenue, or upscale boutiques. Candles in the high-end market are typically prestige-level products that place a premium on the packaging, fragrance, and the story behind the brand. Price range: $35+

Your target market is the group of consumers who are most likely to buy your products. They are the customers you envision browsing your social media, website, or walking into a store and purchasing your product. Start by thinking about their age, location, interests, and the price they’d likely pay for a candle. Knowing your target market allows you to cater your branding, messaging, and pricing to that specific group, instead of trying to please every possible customer.

It’s important to start with a target in mind, but be willing to pivot and adapt over time. Successful businesses constantly adjust to better fit their market.

3. Find your niche

Now that you know where your candles fit in the marketplace, so it’s time to identify your brand’s individual “niche”—what makes your candles unique and separates them from the competition. Here are a few common ways we’ve seen candle makers find the perfect niche:

• Unique scent combinations
• Special packaging
• Clever, humorous, or charming names for your candles
• Charitable support for a good cause

In the end, your goal should be to sell candles so distinctive and unique that customers can’t get them anywhere else.

4. Create a clever brand name and identity

Brand identity includes the visual elements of your brand, like your logo, color scheme, design style, and business name. This will act as your first impression and distinguish you from other brands.

To establish your brand identity, you’ll need a business name. When brainstorming names, focus on what makes your brand unique, what you’re passionate about, and the experience your candles will offer the end user. Do they inspire creativity? Remind them of their favorite vacation spot? Maybe they support a cause or organization. After mulling this over, ask trusted friends or family members for their opinion of your brand name. Talking it over can help jumpstart or solidify your ideas! Remember to focus on being personal and authentic.

Once you’ve landed on something catchy and memorable, double-check that a website domain is available and run a trademark search. You’re not required to register the trademark right away, but you’ll want to have the option available as your business grows.

After you’ve decided on a name, focus on choosing a color scheme and designing a logo. Canva is a great, free online graphic design tool to get started with. Once you’re happy with your logo, then you can start thinking about your  candle labels .

5. Set a basic startup budget

We suggest creating a budget for your first two months in business. Estimate the cost of supplies, equipment, and overhead; and don’t forget to pay yourself for your time and effort as a business owner!

Here’s a downloadable template to help out:

• Candle business budget template

Our “How to Price Your Candles” article is a great resource to help with budgeting, so start there if you’re feeling overwhelmed! 

6. Develop an initial product line and prices

Start out with a small and manageable product line. Think about which candles are the most popular with your friends and family, and if they fit your target market. Then, determine how much each item costs to produce (in supplies and time), and what a reasonable price might be. Don’t be afraid to price your candles based on your time and effort. We’ve seen many candle entrepreneurs price their candles anywhere from $8 up to $40 (or more), depending on their target market.

Check out Cassi's live for help with creating a unified product line. 

7. Decide where to sell

Everyone’s ideal market is unique. Consider where your target market is likely to shop. Here are four markets to consider initially:

• Local craft shows, gift shops, and farmer's markets
• Online marketplaces like Etsy
• Your own website (we recommend Shopify as a great resource)
• Wholesale with established retailers

It can be nerve-wracking, but letting your personal network know that you’re now selling candles can be really helpful early on. Your family, friends, and co-workers can provide invaluable feedback on your product line and can be some of your best brand ambassadors.

8. Incorporate, get insurance, and explore permits and licensure

This process varies based on your location and individual business needs, but some general first steps include the following: 

• Apply for a resale permit to become tax exempt
• Contact an attorney, accountant, and insurance professional for guidance on incorporating and liability insurance. 
• Explore state and local permit and licensure requirements for small businesses.  There are many options for business structures, including sole proprietorships, general partnerships, limited liability companies (LLCs), S Corporations, and C Corporations.

Here’s a helpful IRS checklist for starting your own business and an article from Etsy on business structures popular with crafters.

None of these materials are offered, nor should be construed, as legal advice.

It’s true that candle making businesses are relatively simple to start, but we wouldn’t encourage anyone to start a business based only on the desire to make a profit. Be wary of companies promoting kits to get rich quick or turn the first candles you make into extra spending money. It sounds great, but unfortunately, it’s not very practical. Selling candles that you haven’t thoroughly tested is a recipe for disappointment. 

Whether you use this as a blueprint for getting started or a tool to help you decide if starting a business is right for you, we’ll be here to help through every step of the process. From testing your candles to starting your business to scaling for growth, we’re candle makers who love to help other candle makers.

The takeaways

Here’s a quick recap:

• Candle making is one of the best small businesses you can start. It has low startup costs, doesn’t require much equipment, and can be done right from home.
• Before you launch a business, hone your craft and get comfortable with the candle making process.
• Always plan ahead. Create a simple business plan that covers your products, market segment, and startup budget.
• You don’t need to get everything right initially. Experiment and see what works best for you. It’s part of the process of being an entrepreneur. Start small and grow from there.

Remember, we're here to help.

We love helping entrepreneurs launch and grow their businesses. Got a question or want to share some feedback? We're here to help. Reach out to our Support Team , or connect with us on  Facebook , Instagram , or  Twitter .

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Candle Making Business Plan Template

Whether you want to start your own candle business or expand an existing one, you need a business plan. the following candle business plan template lets you know which elements you need to include in a successful candle making business plan., fill the form to download business plan templates.

To ensure your candle business success in this highly competitive market, you need a properly structured candle business plan. With over 12 years of experience, we have helped over 5,000 entrepreneurs create business plans to start and grow their candle making businesses. Using the following candle business plan template, you can put together an effective business plan.

Things to Know Before Writing a Candle Making Business Plan

Candle-making is heavily influenced by consumer spending power. Scented and unscented candles are produced in this industry. The candle has almost entirely lost its function as a source of light, but it has re-emerged as a popular home decor item.

As a result, they are highly discretionary purchases that compete with other home decor products and air fresheners. In the coming year, the industry is expected to enjoy continued growth in disposable income, consumer expenditures, and trade conditions.

According to IBISWorld, revenue growth over the five years to 2025 is expected to be 2.9% annually, reaching $1.9 billion.

Among the major products and services in this industry are

• Votive candles
• Pillar candles
• Decorative candles in jars or containers
• Tumbler candles
• Other types of candles

Key Success Factors for the Candle Making Business

Despite the challenges of the Candle Making industry, we have identified 4 factors that can help you boost profitability, efficiency, and ultimately success.

• The ability to modify product offerings based on market conditions: Candle industry operators need to consistently offer new waxes, wicks, fragrances, and colorants to meet the changing preferences of consumers.
• Economies of scale: Economies of scale permit companies to minimize marginal costs, thereby making them more profitable.
• Creating premium goods: Customers in this industry are often willing to purchase premium products if they perceive them as being quality.
• Knowledge of the market: Gaining market share is very difficult in this highly competitive industry without marketing and brand awareness. These factors, however, are less influential in niche and ultra-niche markets.

Need a Professional Business Plan Writer for Your Candle Making Business?

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What is a Candle Business Plan?

A candle making business plan is a road-map for starting and growing your candle making business. Your business plan outlines your business concept, identifies your target customers, presents your marketing strategy, and details your financial projections.

Any bank or investor you approach will require a candle making business plan, so putting one together will be critical to securing funding.

In short, writing a business plan can help you succeed if you’re thinking of starting a candle making business or pitching to investors or venture capitalists.

Why You Need a Candle Making Business Plan

Candle making business plans can be used to gain interest from potential investors or to secure loans from banks. They are also helpful to you as the owner. A candle business plan allows you to thoroughly analyze every aspect of your potential business.

A solid, detailed plan gives you a clear path to follow, forces you to examine the viability of a candle business idea, and may help you better understand your company’s finances and competition.

Candle making business owners who have a business plan grow 36% faster than those who don’t, and 75% of fast-growing businesses have one.

A candle business plan is a living document that should be updated annually as your company grows and changes.

Free: Business Plan Examples

Do you need help creating a business plan? Check out these six free, proven business plan examples from different industries to help you write your own.

Funding Sources for Candle Making Business

No matter how large or how small your candle making business is, you should think about your financing options. Starting a candle business is no exception to the rule that it takes money to make money. You may require business funding to pay for supplies, marketing, production, insurance, legal counsel, and other expenses. 

Consider the following funding options first:

Business lines of credit

A business line of credit is a more flexible form of credit than a traditional business loan because it gives you a set amount of money that you can draw from only when you need it.

Business credit cards

For newer business owners, a business credit card may be a better option than a loan because they require less credit history. In general, you can find a credit card with a 0% intro APR, which works out to an interest-free loan if you pay off your balance before the introductory period ends and the variable APR kicks in.

Finance for equipment

Equipment financing may be your best option if your business requires expensive equipment. A lender typically lends money specifically for the purchase of equipment in this type of financing. The equipment is then used as collateral for the loan.

Startup financing

A new business owner should consider SBA microloans or a business grant as options for startup financing. Crowdfunding has also become a popular method of obtaining quick startup capital.

When you get your funding, start accruing expenses, or start earning money, you should take steps to keep your business and personal finances separate. Then look for an accounting software program to help you manage your company’s finances.

Looking to Build Credit for Your Candle Making Business?

Build your business credit quickly with an easy approval net 30 account from Wise Business Plans. Or check out the top 10 net 30 vendors to find the best one for you to help build your business credit .

How to Write a Candle Making Business Plan

To write a candle business plan, you don’t need to be an expert. Our step-by-step guide will show you how to write a candle making business plan, or you can just download our proven sample business plan pdf  to get a better idea.

Candle Business Plan PDF and Word

Download our candle making business plan in PDF and Word here.

Executive Summary

The executive summary is the most important part of the document since it outlines the whole business plan. Despite the fact that it appears first in the plan, write the executive summary last so you may condense key concepts from the other nine parts.

It’s a part that catches the investor’s eye and provides key information about your company’s overview and upcoming short- and long-term goals.

Tell them what kind of candle making business you have and what stage you’re in; for example, are you a startup, do you have a candle making business that you want to expand, or do you have a lot of candle making businesses?

Finally, an executive summary should provide investors with a preview of what they may expect from the rest of your document.

• Provide a high-level overview of the candle making industry
• The name, location, and mission of your candle making company
• A description of your candle making business, including management, advisors, and a brief history
• Discuss the type of candle making business you are operating, Give an overview of your target customers, and how your company differs from competitors in the industry
• Create a marketing plan that describes your company’s marketing strategies, sales, and partnership plans.
• And give an overview of your financial plan

Check out these executive summary examples to help you write a perfect one for your candle making business plan.

Free: Executive Summary Examples

An executive summary is the most important part of your business plan, and it need not be challenging to write. This is why we have put together some awesome free Executive Summary examples for you.

Company Analysis

The company analysis follows the executive summary as the second section of a candle business plan. Your company overview will be short and clear, similar to the executive summary.

Even if they just have a few minutes, your reader has to understand what your company does and who your customers are.

The following sections will be included in your business plan’s Company Analysis:

• Company summary: Your company analysis will describe the type of candle making business you are running and its future goals.  The type of candle making business you might be focused on (Scented candles, Decorative Candles, Pillar candles, Dinner candles, Votive candles, Tea lights and Specialty Wax Candles, etc)
• Company history: When and why did you start your candle making business?
• What milestones have you achieved so far? Your milestones could include served 100th customer, new fleet purchase, etc.
• Legal structure and ownership: Do you have S-Corp status? Is it an LLC ? A sole proprietorship ? Describe your legal structure.
• Mission statement: An overview of your candle making company’s guiding principles. Learn how to write a perfect mission statement .

Industry Analysis

The candle making business plan’s research section will most likely be the most time-consuming. Here, you will elaborate on how you will fit into the existing candle making market. Since your research findings should serve as a sound confirmation of the conclusions you have outlined thus far, they will demonstrate your understanding of the industry and market.

Industry analysis can be presented as a 8-step process when written as part of a company’s business plan.

• Give a quick overview of the candle making industry. Define the candle making business in terms of size (in dollars), historical background, service region, and products.
• Examine previous trends and growth patterns in the candle making industry.
• Identify the market’s major competitors.
• Age, gender, and general lifestyle of the targeted market
• Determine the factors that have an impact on the candle making industry. These might include government regulatory rules and other businesses’ competitive activities.
• Using research data, the industry forecast expected growth over the next five to ten years. Predictions should be made for both the long and short term.
• Describe how your candle making business intends to position itself in the industry. Concentrate on how your candle business can benefit from opportunities highlighted in the industry.

Customer Analysis

The customer analysis section is an important part of any candle business plan since it evaluates the consumer segments that your company serves. It identifies target customers, determines what those customers want, and then explains how the your candle products will meet those requirements.

Customers can be categorized into the following segments:

• Spa beauty salons
• Religious houses

Departmental Stores, Wholesalers, Churches, Spa Beauty Salons, Home Furnishing Stores, Religious groups, hotels and restaurants, families, couples, party planners, homeowners, etc.

Customer analysis may be divided into two parts: Psycho-social profiles  and D emographic profiles

With regards to demographics, include information about: When moving residential, the ages, genders, locations, and income levels of your customers. When targeting businesses, describe what kind of business, size, and location your target customers are.

The psychological profiles of your target clients reveal their wants and needs. The better you understand and identify these demands, the better your chances of attracting and retaining customers will be.

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Competitor Analysis

It is necessary to do a competitor analysis. Because you may use their data to define your goals, marketing plans, tactics, new product lines, pricing, and more. Use competitor analysis to:

• Identify the strength and weakness of your candle making business competitors.
• Search for opportunities to distinguish your candle making business from competitors.

The first step is to determine who your direct and indirect competitors are.

The direct competitor consists of other candle making businesses that offer essentially the same candle products to the same people as you do.

Your indirect competitors are other options that customers have to purchase from you that aren’t direct competitors.

Among indirect competitors are big-box stores, craft stores, home decor stores, and general stores etc. You should also mention the competitors.

Once you’ve identified the competitors, concentrate on the direct, head-to-head competitors, since they are the most threatening to your candle making business— but keep an eye on the indirect competitors as well, just in case.

Provide an overview of each direct competitor’s business and detail their strengths and weaknesses.

You will be able to position yourself competitively in the market if you perform proper competitors research. Perform a SWOT Analysis to learn your competitors’ strengths, weaknesses, and competitive advantages in the following areas:

• Prices – Are they offer cheaper candle products or more costly than you and other competitors, what value do buyers get for that price?
• Quality – Are they offer premium candle products, the perceived worth in the eyes of the customers
• Customer service – How they respond to their consumers, whether they treat them poorly or well, and the degrees of satisfaction customers show
• Reputation — The sum of everything mentioned above: their credibility, how loved the brand is, and the loyalty of their customers

The final section of your competitive analysis should include a list of your areas of competitive advantage. for example: Are you going to offer premium candle products? Will you have unique or specialty products? Will you offer better pricing or will you offer greater customer support?

Consider how you will outperform your competitors and include them in this portion of your candle making business plan.

Free: SWOT Analysis Examples

Take advantage of our free SWOT analysis examples. Make your business future-proof by identifying your strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats using this free SWOT Analysis Template.

Marketing Plan

Creating a marketing plan for a candle making business involves identifying the target demographic and finding candle products that suit their preferences.

As part of your marketing plan for a candle making business, you should include:

Pricing and Product Strategy

Your candle making business must offer stylish and unique candle  products that are different from those of your competitors. Research what your competitors offer and how they price their candle products. Unique candle products identifies your candle making business as the place to go for unique candle products and differentiates it from others.

Placing and Promotions

This refers to the location of your candle-making business. Explain how the location will impact your success. Is your candle business located in a busy retail district, shopping mall, shopping center, etc? Discuss how your location may be perfect for your customers.

Promoting your candle making business is the final part of your marketing plan. In this step, you document how you will drive customers to purchase your candles. A few marketing methods you could consider are:

•  Introduce candle-making business to religious houses, spas, and other businesses
• Advertise your candle-making business in relevant magazines, local newspapers, radio, and television stations.
• Make sure your business is listed in local and online directories
• Utilize your website and social media platforms to promote our products and services
• Direct marketing
• Encourage loyal customers to help us by making referrals
• Distributing business cards and handbills
• Creating a billboard and placing it in a strategic location.

Are they more durable than others? Smell better? Are they made with more environmentally friendly materials? Determine your main selling point and the best way to communicate it to potential customers.

Pro Tips: Learn how to write a marketing plan in business plan to create a winning candle making business plan.

Operations Plan

While the previous sections described your goals, your operational plan in a business plan discusses how you will achieve them.

An operations plan is helpful for investors, but it’s also helpful for you and employees because it pushes you to think about tactics and deadlines.

Your operations plan should be divided into two individual parts, as seen below.

All of the tasks involved in running your candle business, such as tracking inventory, marketing your business, researching new scent combinations or designing new novelty options, pouring candles for inventory, and preparing for upcoming orders, are included in daily short-term processes .

Long-term goals are milestones you hope to reach. they might be growing your business, such as introducing new items or retail outlets, meeting particular sales milestones, and meeting other essential business-oriented goals like recruiting more staff, opening additional locations, and so on.

Management Team

The management team section in a business plan ‘ outlines your management team, staff, resources, and how your business ownership is structured.

This part may be easily organized by dividing it into the following points:

Ownership Structure

Internal Management Team

External Management Resources

Human Resources

This section outlines your candle making business’s legal structure. If your company is a sole proprietorship , it may simply be one phrase. It might be longer if your company is a partnership or a corporation . You should make it a point to clarify who owns what part of the business.

This section should not only outline who is on your management team but also how each person’s skill set and experiences will contribute to the growth of your candle making business. Ideally, you and/or your team members have direct expertise in the candle making business. If this is the case, highlight your experience and skills.

Think of these external management resources as your internal management team’s backup. Consider forming an advisory board if your team is lacking expertise and experience with candle making business.

An advisory board would consist of 3 to 7 people who would serve as mentors to your candle making company. They would assist in answering queries and providing strategic direction.

If necessary, search for advisory board members with expertise running candle making business.

Describe all of your company’s external professional advisers, such as accountants, bankers, attorneys, IT experts, business consultants, and/or business coaches. 

The final topic to consider in the management area of your candle making business plan is your human resource needs.

Financial Plan

As part of your financial plan, you should present a 5-year financial statement broken down monthly or quarterly for the first year, and then annually. Financial statements include your income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow statement.

Income Statement

A profit and loss statement is more commonly called an income statement. It shows your revenue and subtracts your expenses to determine whether you were profitable or not.

As you develop your income statement, you need to develop assumptions. For example, will you serve 20 clients per day or 50? Will sales increase by 3% or 15% per year? As you can imagine, your assumptions have a significant impact on your financial forecast. Do your best to verify your assumptions by conducting research.

Free: Income Statement Template

Create a financial statement for your business by downloading our free income statement templates.

Balance Sheet

While balance sheets include much information, to simplify them to the key items you need to know about, balance sheets show your assets and liabilities.

The balance sheet shows your candle making business’s net value at a specific point in time. It categorizes all of your company’s financial data into three categories:

• Assets: Tangible goods with the monetary worth that the company owns.
• Liabilities: Debt owing to a company’s creditor.
• Equity: The net difference when the total liabilities are subtracted from the total assets.

The equation that expresses the relationship between these financial data elements is Assets = Liabilities + Equity.

Create a pro forma balance sheet for your candle making business plan that highlights the information in the income statement and cash flow projections. A balance sheet is normally prepared once a year by a company.

Balance sheets indicate your assets and liabilities, and while they contain a lot of information, they are simplified to highlight the most important things you need to know.

For example, spending $500,000 to build out your candle making business will not result in instant revenues. Rather, it is an asset that should help you earn money for many years to come.

Similarly, if a bank sends you a check for $200,000, you do not have to pay it back right now. Rather, that is a liability that you will repay over time.

Cash Flow Statement:

Your cash flow statement will help you determine how much money you need to start or grow your candle making business. In developing your Income Statement and Balance Sheets be sure to include several of the key costs needed in starting or growing a candle making business:

• Fees for registering a candle making business
•  Acquisition of POS machines and candle-making equipment
• Expenses for marketing promotion for at least six months
• Operating expenses for the first six months (employee salaries, bills)
• Taxes and licenses costs
• Business insurance
• Payroll or salaries paid to staff
• Facility rent and security deposits
• Construction / remodeling
• Start-up inventory cost (wax, wicks, fragrances, packaging materials)

Read Later: How to create a financial plan in a business plan .

Free: Balance Sheet Template

Create a financial statement for your business by downloading our free balance sheet templates.

List any additional material you cannot include elsewhere, such as resumes from key employees, licenses, equipment leases, permits, patents, receipts, bank statements, contracts, and personal and business credit histories.

Attach your full financial projections along with any supporting documents that make your plan more compelling in the appendix.

Pro Tip: Find out what to include in a business plan appendix when writing a candle making business plan.  

Summary of the Candle Making Business Plan

A candle business plan is a worthwhile investment. As long as you follow the template above, you will become an expert in no time. By following the template, you will understand the candle making business, your competition, and your customers. The plan will help you understand the steps necessary to launch and grow your candle making business.

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Wouldn’t it be nice if your business plan could be completed faster and easier?

With wise business plans Business Plan Template , you can finish your candle making business plan in just 6 hours or less with a 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee!

Also, you can download our 300+ free business plan templates covering a wide range of industries.

OR, we can create your candle making business plan for you

Since 2010, Wise business plans’ MBA professional business plan writers has developed business plans for thousands of companies that have experienced tremendous success.

Download Our Candle Making Business Plan Template

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How to start a candle business in 2023: an 8-step guide

This post was last updated on February 9, 2023.

You’ve probably heard the rumors.

The candle industry is thriving. Last year alone, the global candle industry hit $6.8 billion—and it's currently on track to reach $9.9 billion in annual revenue by 2028, according to a report by Vantage Market Research .

Whether you’re looking to take a personal hobby to the next level or dive head-first into a new business venture, you’ve come to the right place. This step-by-step guide for how to start a candle business will outline everything you need to know.

Why should you start a candle business?

There are a number of reasons why a candle business makes for a good eCommerce business idea . To name a few:

Low startup costs - Candle-making doesn’t require a lot of tools or equipment to start. You could essentially run to your local craft store with little startup capital and get started today (though later you might want to upgrade to premium materials). This isn’t generally the case when it comes to how much it costs to start a business .

Easy to learn - There are tons of free online resources, recipes, and tutorials to help you understand the craft of candle-making (including this handy resource hub by the National Candle Association ). You can experiment with fragrances, containers, waxes, and wicks at your leisure and customize your candles however you’d like.

Better-than-average profit margins - What may cost you just a few dollars to make can typically be sold at a 25% to 50% markup , making operating expenses relatively affordable.

How to start a candle business in 8 steps

Master the craft of candle-making

Define your brand

Estimate your startup costs

Write a business plan

Make your business official

Create your startup inventory

Create your online store

Develop your marketing strategy

01. Master the craft of candle-making

The first logical step is to get familiar with the process of creating a candle. One of our favorite types comes from the Armatage Candle Company , which encourages new business owners to heed the "84 Candle Rule"—that is, create 84 candles and give most of them away.

The 84 Candle Rule gives you ample time to get familiar with the candle-making process, test various formulas, and collect feedback from friends and family.

Moreover, as you create more and more candles, you’ll learn to:

Graduate from a candle-making kit. To scale production, you’ll eventually need to invest in more professional equipment, like a 4-lb pour pot or a Presto Pot, that can support a higher volume than a kit.

Master the craft. Rather than splitting your time between learning how to create candles and run a business , you can focus on perfecting (and confirming your interest) in candle-making first.

Test various aspects of your candles. With each batch you make, you can test aspects such as smell, safety, burn time, and more until you develop a formula that you like.

Find suppliers. As you increase production, you’ll need to learn how and where to purchase supplies, whether locally or online—and can afford the time to shop around.

Make a variety of candles. Making 84 candles gives you plenty of room to explore various wax types, dyes, fragrances, and candle types (e.g., pillar candles, container candles, wax melts, etc.) that you can offer as part of your catalog.

02. Define your brand

Before presenting your candles to the market, you must figure out the who, what, and why behind your brand. Ask yourself:

Why are you starting a business ? - What is the story behind your brand, and the overall vision that keeps you motivated?

What is your target market - Are you looking to sell higher-end candles to be sold at luxury boutiques and stores? Or, are you looking to appeal to the masses and create candles that feature more economical packaging and containers?

Who is your ideal customer? - Perhaps you’re looking to sell high-end candles for working men and women aged 20 to 35 who want to spruce up their home offices. Or, perhaps your niche consists of avid campers aged 35 through 60 looking for a better-smelling, bug-repelling candle.

What makes your candles different? - Are your candles non-toxic? Are your scents extra delicious? Do you support a cause? It's important to establish your unique selling proposition (USP) in order to differentiate yourself from competitors.

Once you’ve answered these questions, you can enjoy an easier time figuring out how to bring your vision to life. Between deciding the types of candles you want to offer and how to brand your online store , a clear brand identity can help you to get things off the ground faster.

At this point, make sure to tackle these basic steps:

Decide on a business name - A strong, memorable name is invaluable. Take the time to think of a name that represents your products or brand mission, while ensuring that it’s able to grow with your brand. If you need some inspiration, try the Wix Business Name Generator for free.

Create a logo - Design a logo that you can proudly sport on your product packaging, website, and marketing materials. The Wix Logo Maker can get your creative juices flowing, or find a professional designer on the Wix Marketplace .

Design your labels - Work with your designer to create labels for your candles that are reflective of your brand’s personality. Remember to observe candle label requirements and include essential information like your candle scent, product weight, and your company information.

03. Estimate your startup costs

When it comes to learning how to start a business , there are typically two types of startup costs that you’ll have to be aware of:

Production/manufacturing costs - These include the cost of manufacturing and packaging your products. Factor in equipment like your containers, waxes, wicks, fragrance oils, thermometers, and more.

Business/operating costs - These include any software subscriptions, shipping costs, small business insurance, and other bills you’ll have to pay to keep your business operations running smoothly.

Take the time to list out what items you’ll need to create your first 100 or so candles. At this stage, you’ll also want to get familiar with costs you should expect, both now and in the future.

For instance, you’ll need to budget money for any marketing or advertising that you plan to do around your products. You’ll also need to factor in taxes, plus recurring fees for any website software you want to use or partners (like 3PLs) that you want to team up with to scale and simplify operations.

04. Write a business plan

A business plan helps you plan out all aspects of your business and set yourself up for sustainable growth.

When developing your plan, it’s important to take your time and walk through the various opportunities and challenges confronting your business. Pinpoint your competitors, your differentiators, your distribution channels, and the resources at your disposal (among other things).

Most business plans will include the following sections:

Executive summary

Company name, description, and domain

Ecommerce market analysis

Products you’re selling and why

Operations plan

Marketing and advertising plan

Financial plan

Learn more about creating a strong eCommerce business plan .

05. Make your business official

It's time to turn your business into a legal business entity and take care of other business-essential steps. Don't worry. This part is a lot less scary than it sounds.

Register with your state

It is important to take where you live into account. Learning how to start a business in Massachusetts is very different from learning how to start a business in California , for example. Register your business name through your state and local governments. The easiest way to find where to register is by googling "register a business in [insert your state]."

The search results will contain several links for companies offering to register your business for you (for a fee). However, you can avoid the service fee by registering directly through your state's website. You’ll typically have to pay a small filing fee, which varies by state.

Get a federal tax ID

File for a Federal Tax ID (or EIN) number , which is required to open a business bank account, obtain a business loan, hire employees, and more. Fortunately, the application process is free and only takes a few minutes.

Apply for business licenses and permits

Once you have your EIN, you can complete the last step in making your business legal: apply for a business license . A business license includes your seller's permit and allows you to collect state sales tax on your transactions.

Perform another internet search to find the appropriate website for your state (i.e., google "register for a business license in [insert your state]"). Complete the application steps outlined by your state. Note that some states only require a general business license while others have additional local or county-based requirements.

Apply for insurance

Unfortunately, the reality is that candles are a fire hazard, and accidents can happen. Therefore, applying for insurance is one of the most critical steps in creating your business. Insurance not only protects your business, but it protects you and your family as well.

At a minimum, you'll want an insurance policy that provides general liability coverage. General liability is the most straightforward and covers third-party property damage or injury claims.

There are a lot of online resources about small business insurance. Do some research, consult a professional, and find a small business insurance company that provides the coverage you need and fits your budget.

Get a business bank account

For taxes and bookkeeping, it’s a good idea to keep your business income and expenses separate from your personal finances.

Each bank or credit union has different fees, transaction limits, and balance minimums for business accounts. So take some time to shop around for a local or online bank that will work for you.

Note: to open a business account, most financial institutions require a copy of your business formation documents (obtained when you registered your business), licenses/permits, and either your EIN or your social security number.

06. Create your startup inventory

Build your first products to list for sale. Start with a fragrance lineup that best fits your business and your purpose, and then every couple of months, launch a new fragrance and get feedback from your buyers.

This can help to keep your customers engaged and excited about new fragrances or product lines.

Professional candle makers, Black Tie Barn , recommends launching with six to eight fragrances—one from each of the following categories:

Something unique to your business

One more scent from your favorite category

07. Create your online store

Here comes the fun part. Build a business website where you can collect orders for your candles.

At this stage, it’s crucial to pick a reliable eCommerce platform. A platform like Wix’s eCommerce website builder offers a wide range of features and capabilities, including built-in catalog management, inventory management, and marketing tools that will be useful in the future.

All Wix websites are also built with SEO, reliability, security, and performance in mind. Meaning, you don’t have to worry about your site crashing when there’s a surge in traffic. And you can rest assured that your site is mobile-friendly and backed by the best security measures.

Read More: Proof that Wix is good for eCommerce

Thanks to these capabilities, you can focus most of your attention on designing the best, user-friendly site experience.

First, pick a layout design that best suits your brand. Most website builders provide several pre-made templates to help get you started. For example, Wix eCommerce includes more than 500 professionally designed online store templates , which can be further customized.

Build out your pages and pay special attention to the following best practices:

Use high-quality product photos - Offer a range of studio and lifestyle shots, and photos that show your candles at various angles. Heed these product photography tips in order to take pictures that are both compelling and informative.

Include detailed product descriptions - For each candle, clearly state the available size(s), fragrance, approximate burn times, and appropriate warnings or usage tips. The more detail you can include, the better for mitigating returns due to “item not as described.”

Make sure your products are easy to find - Ensure that your site is easy to navigate. As a general rule of thumb, all of your products should be accessible within three clicks. Leverage breadcrumbs, menus, and features like “related products” to encourage product discovery on your site.

Offer multiple payment options - When connecting a payment provider to your store, keep in mind that some customers may want to pay with a credit card while others may prefer PayPal or buy-now-pay-later services like Affirm. Reduce friction at checkout by offering a variety of payment options. Wix Payments can make this possible on any Wix store—or you can choose from 50+ other payment options.

08. Develop your marketing strategy

You've done a lot of work up to this point. Now it's time to create an eCommerce marketing strategy and figure out how to spread the word about your store. As a Wix merchant, you can automatically access tools for business email marketing, social media marketing, blogging, and more.

Social media is a great place to start promoting your product, though you’ll want to avoid taking the spray-and-pray approach. Engage with social channels one or two at a time (there’s no need to create accounts everywhere just for the heck of it). Experiment with various types of posts—like videos and livestreams—and observe how people respond.

Pro tip : When talking about your product online, avoid subjective buzzwords like “amazing” or “best.” Instead, focus on your purpose and your story, and aim to demonstrate how your products are superior.

Other marketing tactics worth trying:

Create a newsletter to regularly engage with customers and recommend products

Start a blog as part of a larger SEO strategy, and to attract organic traffic to your site

Run ad campaigns that retarget your site visitors and/or help you get in front of new audiences

Incentivize customers to refer a friend to your website by offering special rewards

Collect user-generated content and social proof to display on your site

Run contests and giveaways to generate interest in your products

Participate in craft shows or other local events where you can demonstrate your products in person

Time to launch

So, you've laid the groundwork for your business, stocked up on supplies (plus equipment), built an amazing eCommerce website, and created your initial inventory. Now it’s time to put it all together and launch your candle business.

Remember to never stop being curious, even after you’ve opened the (virtual) doors of your business. Analyze your business regularly. Talk to your customers. Optimize and pivot as necessary.

Ready to start your new candle-making business? Create your online store with Wix eCommerce today.

Looking to start a candle business in a specific state

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How to start a candle business FAQ

What are some of the challenges of starting a candle business.

There are a few challenges that you may face when starting a candle business. These include:

Competition: The candle industry is very competitive, so you'll need to find a way to make your candles stand out from the competition.

Costs: Starting a candle business can be expensive, especially if you plan on making your own candles. You'll need to factor in the cost of supplies, packaging, marketing, and shipping.

Time: It takes time to build a successful candle business. Don't expect to become an overnight success.

What are some tips for starting a successful candle business?

Here are a few tips for starting a successful candle business:

Do your research. Before you start making candles, it's important to do your research and learn as much as you can about the candle industry. This includes learning about the different types of candles, the different waxes and oils that can be used, and the different candle making techniques.

Develop a unique selling proposition. What makes your candles different from the candles that are already on the market? What can you offer that your competitors can't?

Focus on quality. The quality of your candles is essential to your success. Make sure that your candles are well-made and smell amazing.

Market your candles effectively. Once you have made your candles, you need to get the word out. There are many different ways to market your candles, so experiment until you find a method that works best for you.

Be patient and persistent. It takes time to build a successful candle business. Don't get discouraged if you don't see results immediately. Just keep making great candles and marketing them effectively, and you will eventually succeed.

Allison Lee

Editor, Wix eCommerce

Allison is the editor for the Wix eCommerce blog, with several years of experience reporting on eCommerce news, strategies, and founder stories.

• Sell Online

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How to write your Candle Making Business Plan

Starting your own candle making business doesn’t have to be complicated. There are helpful ways that you can plan for all the best—and worst—parts of your business before you even open up shop. To do so, all you have to do is write your own business plan. But where do you even start?

How to write your candle making business plan:

• Outline your operations, or how you’re going to run your business. 

Outline any legal information, like how you’re going to insure your business. 

Describe your staffing and your management structure..

• Create a budget for both short term and long term.
• Describe where you will be conducting business, whether at home or in a physical storefront. 
• Outline your marketing strategy.
• Write your mission statement and set goals. 

Your business plan is the backbone of your business. By creating your business plan at the start of your business creation, you will not only have a road map to initial success, but you will have a way forward through any issues you may have throughout the operations of your business. Read on to find out what needs to be in each section of your business plan. 

Table of Contents

Outline your operations, or how you’re going to run your business. 

As you start your business, the most important factor you need to consider is how you are going to run your business. This may seem vague, but as you start to answer questions, you will get a deeper understanding of the industry and your business overall. This is the part of your business plan you will refer to when you need to make hard decisions in the future, so be as thorough as you can in creating this section. 

Some questions you should ask yourself include:

• What should I name my business? In this case, if you are operating under a name that isn’t your personal name, you may have to register under a “doing business as” business, depending on your location. Registering under your own name may force you to register your business differently. Make sure your business name is unique, not just for brand recognition, but because you need to register it with the government.
• What kind of business should I have? You have options, like the “doing business as” option, a partnership with another person, or creating a limited liability company. In most cases, a limited liability company is your best option, but consider speaking to a lawyer or attorney to solidify this choice. 

Even if you are just starting out as a small business online or Etsy, you should consider insuring your business. While if you are a limited liability company, you will have some protection, you should also make sure you have the appropriate insurance on the location where you will be creating your candles. Candles are technically a fire hazard, so making sure you are safe will also help you in the long run. 

If you are working out of your home, contact your existing home insurance provider. If you are renting or purchasing a location, your provider for that location will have information about what you need to do before you start creating candles.

In some cases, you will also need business licenses before you start selling online. Consider contacting your local government to find out what you need before you start. 

Even if you are opening the business by yourself, writing down the management structure is key if you ever want to expand. Questions you should be asking yourself include:

Am I going to run my business, or is someone else part of all major decisions?

This comes down to your business structure. If you’re in a partnership with someone else, make sure you outline each of your responsibilities here. When it is just you, use this section to outline what you do to manage your business, so if you decide to hire new people down the road, you have a structure to do so. 

If i hire employees, who do they answer to.

Especially if you are working with multiple owners, you need to determine the management hierarchy.

  If I hire employees, what benefits should I provide? This may also feel like something far down the road, but you will need to offer benefits to your employees if you decide to hire on. While this doesn’t have to be set in stone, getting it down in writing will help in the long run. 

Create a budget for both short term and long term

Your business can’t even begin without creating a budget.

Questions you should ask yourself as you write out a budget include:

1: How much money do I need to run my business month by month? For a business out of your home, you will need inventory, a place to sell your inventory, and marketing. Don’t forget to set aside a salary for yourself.

2: How much profit do I need to break even? 

3: How much profit do I need to expand?

4: How much will I charge per candle? 

These questions are most likely answered after determining what inventory you will need and breaking down the costs by individual candle. When you have done that, it is much easier to determine your budget and find out just how much capital you need to start your business. 

Describe where you will be conducting business, whether at home or in a physical storefront

While most candle making companies that are selling handmade items online are making their candles in their home, it does not always have to be the case. In this section, outline where your business will be. If you have to move into another physical location, outline what you need in that location and what you’re willing to pay. It will help guide your decisions as you look for a space.

Outline your marketing strategy

In your budget, you should include costs for marketing, whether that is online, through social media, or another outlet. You can’t sell your items without people knowing about them, so create a marketing strategy in your business plan. 

Questions you can ask yourself include:

• Where will I market my items? If you want to sell on Etsy, you can easily set up a shop there. If you’re looking strictly at selling off your own website. There are ways to include a shop on your own proprietary website, like using Shopify. 
• When on social media, how often should I post? This is extremely important in our social media age—post too little, no one remembers them, or post too much, and you will get ignored. Find a happy medium in posting every other day or a certain time during the day. 
• What demographic am I trying to reach, and where are they looking the most? Outlining your demographic is key in knowing where to sell your items. If your candles are geared more towards the Boomer generation, you’re not going to find enough marketing to keep you afloat on TikTok. 
• What should my brand look like? Decide on your logo, fonts, colors, etc. and make sure you stay consistent among all your social media and your website. Customers want to see something that looks professional and cohesive. Decide what you’re doing before you even open your store, so you can have brand recognition from the start. 

Write your mission statement and set goals

While you may think you don’t need a mission statement or philosophy for a candle making company, you might be surprised. Truly thinking about why you want to start this business can solidify what you’re doing and when you share it, you can bring in more customers just by your idealistic approach. People don’t just want companies anymore—they want to shop with real people. 

In this section, you can also start to set goals for yourself. Find out what you really want to do this for and outline the ways you are going to get there. Whether it’s profit or because you found a niche in your community you wanted to fill, it doesn’t matter your motives as long as you set goals to get there. 

Don’t be afraid to add more to your business plan! The more information you have, the better—if a problem arises down the line from when you start your business, you will have your plan to refer to in order to make better business decisions. 

What Do Consumers Love Most About Candles

Related Questions

I want to start a homemade candle making business at home. How much money do I need?

If you want to start your business at home, you will need about $1,500 for a point-of-sale system, a way to display your candles online, marketing, and inventory. 

Is it safe to make candles in my home?

Yes, making candles at home is perfectly safe if you take the necessary precautions. Make sure your wax does not get too hot as it melts, and use a thermometer if necessary. Keep your work area clean, setting down newspaper or wax paper for easy clean up. 

Looking to start your own candle making business, check out my startup documents here

Please note that the contents of this blog are for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. Any action taken based on the information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk. Additionally, all images used in this blog are generated under the CC0 license of Creative Commons , which means they are free to use for any purpose without attribution.

Meet Shawn Chun: Entrepreneur and Candle Business Fan.

I’m a happy individual who happens to be an entrepreneur. I have owned several types of businesses in my life from a coffee shop to an import and export business to an online review business plus a few more and now I create online candle business resources for those interested in starting new ventures. It’s demanding work but I love it. I do it for those passionate about their business and their goals. That’s why when I meet a candle business owner at a craft fair, farmers market, retail location or anywhere else I see myself. I know how hard the struggle is to obtain and retain clients, finding good employees all while trying to stay competitive. That’s why I created Candle Business Boss: I want to help candle business owners like you build a thriving business that brings you endless joy and supports your ideal lifestyle.

How to Start a Candle Making Business

  On This Page:

Steps to Starting a Candle Business

How big is the candle manufacturing industry, what are the key segments of the candle manufacturing industry, what external factors affect the candle manufacturing industry, who are the key competitors in the candle manufacturing industry, what are the key customer segments in the candle manufacturing market, what are the typical startup costs for a new candle making business, is a candle making business profitable, what are the keys to launching a new candle making business, how to start a candle making business faqs, helpful videos, additional resources, other helpful business plan articles & templates.

When you think about starting a new business, the focus is usually on making money. However, there are many other benefits to running your own business, from keeping up with the latest trends and innovating yourself to being your own boss. One lucrative yet overlooked industry is candle-making.

In this article, we will share with you how to make your candle business a success.

Importantly, a critical step in starting a candle making business is to complete your business plan. To help you out, you should download Growthink’s Ultimate Business Plan Template here .

Download our Ultimate Business Plan Template here

1) Determine your niche.

There are many ways to go about creating your own candle business. The first thing you need to do is decide what your specific niche will be. Do you want to focus on making candles for an event? Or how about customizing candles for the home? Do you want to sell candles for a particular type of holiday such as Christmas or Valentine’s Day? You can even create multiple niches and focus on giving customers what they want.

2) Name and register your business.

You will need an official business name and you will have to register your business with your state and the federal government. You can pick a name that is related to candles and/or has something to do with your intended market (e.g., Glitter and Sprinkles if you’re selling at craft fairs, Secret Garden for weddings).

3) Determine your business structure.

You have a few options when it comes to setting up your candle business.

You could sell as a sole proprietor, meaning you are responsible for all debts and actions of the company.

A partnership is where two or more people decide to pool resources together with each party being responsible for their actions.

Other common business structures include a limited liability company (LLC) and a corporation. When you choose your business structure, make sure to review any paperwork.

The best option for you depends on your personal preference and the size/type of business you want to start.

4) Create your candle making business plan .

Create a business plan that includes your budget, materials list (including costs), and marketing strategy. You will need to decide what kind of candles you want to make, how much you will charge for them, and how many hours you are willing to spend per week making the initial product line.

To help you get started, you can download our candle making business plan sample pdf .

5) Determine how you’re going to finance your candle-making business.

Figure out what kind of capital is necessary and how you are going to get it. Your best bet may be a line of credit from the bank, business credit cards, or getting a small business loan.

6) Open a business bank account.

This is the official account you will use for your business. It helps to separate your personal and business expenses, but it can be confusing at first since money may still come from different sources. For this reason, you must be organized when it comes to keeping track of income and expenses.

Finish Your Business Plan Today!

7) set up bookkeeping software for your candle business..

You are going to need some method of bookkeeping that allows you to keep track of your income, expenses, and taxes. You can use a simple Excel spreadsheet if necessary but purchasing accounting software will make the process much easier. When you set it up, don’t forget to set up separate accounts for all of your different kinds of expenses, income, and taxes.

8) Purchase insurance.

As with any kind of business, it is advised that you get insurance before getting started. This way, if something happens to your equipment, you are not left footing the bill. Also, talk to your insurance agent about covering liabilities that may arise from customers who are hurt while visiting your candle-making lab or store.

9) Find the right equipment.

This will be largely dependent on what type of candle-making business you want to start. A few suggestions are: melting pots, stirring spoons, measuring cups and spoons, molds (silicone or wooden), and thermometers.

You can find most of these items at a local craft store or online candle-making suppliers.

10) Source your supplies.

You will need to find out where to buy wax (soy wax is best), wicks, dye, and fragrance. There are pre-made kits you can buy with everything you need to make candles. Otherwise, you can buy the supplies separately if you are more familiar with the specific supplies that you want to use in your candles.

11) Set up a “candle lab.”

To make wax candles, you will need to devote some space for melting wax, mixing colors, pouring into molds, and cooling. Once you have all your materials and licensing, it is time to start making candles! Here are some tips:

• always work in a well-ventilated area
• work with one color of wax at a time
• melt the wax to between 130-140 degrees Fahrenheit
• let the dye dissolve completely in the hot wax before stirring (otherwise, your colors will be muddled)
• use good quality fragrances
• wear clothes that cover your skin, closed-toed shoes, and a hair net if you have long hair

If you are just starting, you can use your kitchen or basement. If the work becomes too consuming, then an entire room may be necessary.

12) Test your product and chemistry knowledge.

Before you begin to produce large quantities of candles, make a small batch and test them for scent throw (how well it smells), hot and cold scent throw (making candles is all about chemistry), cooling effect (if you used dye, your candles may heat up and melt the dye which will look bad), wax melt pool (how big it is), how long it burns, etc.

13) Create a marketing plan.

Research your target market and determine how to reach them. You can start by hosting small events in your home with friends and family for feedback, then slowly expand from there. Gain more exposure by signing up for a booth at local trade shows and craft fairs where you can sell your candles.

If you want to sell and ship your candles across the country, you can also begin building your own website with the help of a friend or family member who has some web development experience or choose an easy drag and drop e-commerce platform to help you get started.

14) Enjoy the sweet smell of success of your own candle business.

Once you have mastered the art of making candles, you can begin selling candles locally and online using marketplaces like Etsy or build your own website to attract more potential customers.

With hard work and dedication, your business should soon be booming.

The candle manufacturing industry has shown quite an increase in popularity over the last couple of years. The market size now exceeds $2 billion and is projected to grow to $6.6 billion in the next 5 years.

Candle manufacturing is a very fragmented business with a majority of it being small and medium-sized companies. There are only a few large manufacturers who hold a significant market share.

The largest segment in the industry is container candles, accounting for 58.7% of the market. The second biggest segment is votive candles, accounting for 21.7% of the market. Other segments include pillars, tapers, novelty candles, and others.

The following external factors also play a role in the candle manufacturing industry:

Disposable Income – Key influencer of the industry. As disposable income increases, so does consumer spending on candles.

Consumer Preferences – Shifts in consumer preferences have a large impact on this industry as it is heavily driven by aesthetics. With new fashions and trends emerging regularly, an additional challenge for candle manufacturers is to keep up with consumers’ tastes and preferences.

Production & Materials Cost – Key influencer of the industry. Changes in resin and wax prices will affect the cost of producing candles.

Environmental Regulations – The environmental impact of burning candles is becoming a major issue for this industry, with consumers increasingly concerned about pollution and its long-term effects. Rising awareness could lead to regulation in this area and introduce an obstacle to candle manufacturing companies’ growth prospects.

The candle manufacturing industry is fairly fragmented with several small to mid-size companies competing for a share of the market. The following are some of the key competitors in this industry:

• Private Label – Candles are frequently sold under the brand names of retailers or distributors.
• SC Johnson and Sons – Manufacturer of Glade candle products along with a wide range of other products.
• The Yankee Candle Co. Inc. – The company manufactures and retails candles, holders, related accessories and room sprays through its candle wholesale division.
• MVP Group International Inc. – The company designs and manufactures various private label and branded candles, candle accessories, home fragrance products, and decorative accessory gift products.
• Newell Brands – The candle making company produces the Duraflame brand of candles.

The key customer segments in this market include:

• Home furnishing stores – These are retailers who sell candles, candle holders and other home furnishing products.
• Mass merchandisers – Retailers who operate large retail outlets where they sell a general line of products and whose main target market is the price-conscious consumer.
• Small specialty retail stores – These are retailers who sell a limited line of products and whose stores may be arranged similarly to those of home furnishing retail outlets.
• Wholesalers – These are intermediaries who purchase products from the manufacturer to resell them to retailers.
• Exports – Export sales make up a significant percentage of annual candle sales and is expected to grow in the future.
• Direct sales – Candle sales are made directly to the consumer by manufacturers and producers.
• Online sales – Candle sales are made through their own ecommerce site and other online marketplaces.

The typical startup costs for a new candle business can range anywhere from $10,000 to $80,000. New candle businesses will require the following initial investments:

• Raw Materials – Raw materials needed to produce candles may include wax, glass containers, scents, wicks, and other related products.
• Production Equipment – Production equipment may include molds, melting pots, and filling machines.
• Marketing Expenses – Marketing expenses may include costs related to promotional items, industry publications, and related products used for marketing purposes.
• Advertising – Costs of advertising for a new candle business will depend on the type of media used but are expected to be upwards of $1,000 per month.
• Office Supplies – Office supplies needed by a new candle company might include stationery, business cards, labels, and other related products.
• Legal Fees – Costs of legal fees may be incurred to file all necessary legal documents.
• Business Licenses and Permits – Costs of licenses and permits will depend on the location of the new company but are expected to be under $1,000.
• Packaging and Shipping – Packaging and shipping costs will vary depending on the type of products sold but are expected to be upwards of $1,000 per month.

As your business grows, you may find there are some additional costs of obtaining a larger space:

• Renting a Commercial Space – The rent for a commercial space will depend on the location of the business and could cost between $1,000 to $3,000 per month.
• Employee Costs – The employee costs for a new candle-making business will depend on the type of workers hired but are expected to be upwards of $1,000 per month.
• Utility Costs – Utility costs for a new candle-making business may include electricity, gas, and water.
• Business Insurance Costs – Insurance for a new candle company may include general liability insurance, commercial property insurance, and vehicle insurance.

Like most businesses, one of the keys to running an effective candle making company is generating positive cash flow on a regular basis. A successful candle business should be profitable enough to support your family and also allow you to invest back into it so that you can grow the business over time.

If you’re looking to start a candle business, there are a few key things you need to know. Here are the most important:

1. Make a business plan.

This will help you map out your goals and strategies for your business. A candle-making business plan should cover a variety of areas, including candle manufacturing, market analysis, key competitors, marketing plan, financial plan, and more.

2. Find customers.

Before you start making candles, find out how much demand there is for the products or services that you will offer. If you can’t find enough customers, then your business won’t succeed.

3. Get funding from the bank or investors.

In most cases, you will need to secure a loan from a bank or obtain significant financial backing from an investor to successfully start a candle business. In some instances, you might also receive low-interest loans or grants from the federal government if your candle business is located in an economically disadvantaged area and/or offers products that benefit society as a whole.

4. Market your candle-making business.

Make sure people learn about your new candle-making company. Create your website, market on social media platforms like Facebook & Twitter, sell through online retail stores such as Amazon & eBay, and do whatever it takes to get the word out there that you’ve started a new candle-making company.

5. Never stop improving.

In the beginning stages of running a candle-making company, you should never stop learning about how companies make money or new marketing strategies that can help grow your customer base. One of the most common mistakes made by small businesses is not staying up-to-date with industry trends and new developments within their field.

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How much does it cost to start a candle-making business?

Several costs will be associated with starting a new candle-making business, including production equipment, raw materials, and employee wages. However, many of these expenses can be offset by working with suppliers and manufacturers that offer discounts on the resources needed to produce candles or other related products for sale.

What are the market opportunities of the candle-making industry?

While there is some risk due to the industry's sensitivity to consumer tastes and preferences, this market presents several opportunities for new entrants or companies that can provide unique products at reasonable prices:

Increasing Awareness About Scented Candles - The candle manufacturing industry has been receiving a lot of attention from the media lately, giving many people the opportunity to know more about how scented candles can affect their lives. Candles have been shown to lift consumer moods and reduce stress levels, which could represent future growth opportunities for this industry.

Expansion in the Casual Segment - While candles have been traditionally associated with holidays and events, more companies are beginning to recognize candles' usefulness in everyday life. This presents room for growth, especially when it comes to casual candles, which seem to be mostly overlooked by consumers at present.

International Potential - Market opportunities exist in countries that have a high demand for candles and where candle manufacturing companies can benefit from affluent consumers with high disposable income.

How Can You Market Your Own Candle Business?

Using social media marketing websites is a great way to market your candle business. Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram are just a few social media sites that you can use to tell people about your products. Post pictures of the candles you have made, and offer coupons or giveaways for future candle customers.

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How to Start a Candle Making Business

Written by: Carolyn Young

Carolyn Young is a business writer who focuses on entrepreneurial concepts and the business formation. She has over 25 years of experience in business roles, and has authored several entrepreneurship textbooks.

Edited by: David Lepeska

David has been writing and learning about business, finance and globalization for a quarter-century, starting with a small New York consulting firm in the 1990s.

Updated on September 25, 2023

Investment range

$1,040 - $1,680

Revenue potential

$60,000 - $180,000 p.a.

Time to build

0 - 3 months

Profit potential

$30,000 - $72,000 p.a.

Industry trend

• Decide if the Business Is Right for You
• Hone Your Idea
• Brainstorm a Candle Business Name
• Create a Candle Making Business Plan
• Register Your Business
• Register for Taxes
• Fund your Business
• Apply for Candle Making Business Licenses and Permits
• Open a Business Bank Account
• Get Business Insurance
• Prepare to Launch
• Build Your Team
• Run a Candle Business - Start Making Money!

Candle Business FAQs

If you have a passion for candles, their design, scent,  and feel, then starting a candle-making business could be in the cards for you. Candles can add a bit of romance or give a room a more natural glow — and they make for great gifts at an affordable price. Homemade candles, in particular, feel like they’ve been crafted from the warmth of the heart.

But of course, starting your candle business will take preparation and work. With this step-by-step guide, we provide all the information you need to develop and launch your business while avoiding common missteps.

Looking to register your business? A limited liability company (LLC) is the best legal structure for new businesses because it is fast and simple.

Form your business immediately using ZenBusiness LLC formation service or hire one of the Best LLC Services .

Step 1: Decide if the Business Is Right for You

Pros and cons.

Every business has its pros and cons, and it’s a good idea to weigh these factors to decide if starting a candle business is a good fit.

• Flexible – Set your own schedule and work when you want.
• Rewarding work – Chasing your passion, expressing your creativity in candles.
• Simple business model – Make and sell candles — not complicated.
• Minimal startup costs – Few materials needed; sell online.
• Good money & scalability – With low costs, profits can be strong; grow as you wish.
• Heavy competition – Due to the low barriers to entry, there are many custom candle makers out there that you will have to compete against.
• May need a supplier – In order to effectively grow your business, you may need to pair with a supplier, which will decrease your autonomy.
• Repetitive work with no safety net – You’ll receive no salary for your candle-making; earnings will rely on you churning out candles.
• Difficult to build customer trust and loyalty – With no face-to-face interactions, your candle website may have a hard time building a loyal customer base.

Candle industry trends

Increased demand for home decor products has helped expand and broaden the candle-making market in recent years. Today’s custom-made marketplace offers innovative scents, multiple colors, organic ingredients, and a wide variety of shapes and sizes. One inventive maker even sells a candle shaped like a hand, with wicks on the end of each finger! The price? A cool $65.(( https://www.uncommongoods.com/product/light-my-fingers-candle ))

These days, pumpkin candles do well in the fall, peppermint in winter, and citrus in the summer. The candle industry has grown alongside the spa and yoga studio market .

Industry size and growth

• Industry size and past growth – Candle manufacturing in the US, valued at $1.7 billion, is starting to recover from the pandemic slump.(( https://www.ibisworld.com/industry-statistics/market-size/candle-manufacturing-united-states/ )) 
• Growth forecast – As of 2021, business intelligence advisory Verified Market Research expects the global candle industry to grow 8% annually through 2028.(( https://www.verifiedmarketresearch.com/product/candle-market/ )) 
• Number of businesses – There are 456 candle manufacturing businesses in the US.(( https://www.ibisworld.com/industry-statistics/number-of-businesses/candle-manufacturing-united-states/ ))
• Number of people employed – The industry employs almost 5,000 people.(( https://www.ibisworld.com/industry-statistics/employment/candle-manufacturing-united-states/ ))

Trends and challenges

Trends in the candle industry include:

• Increasing consumer preference for personalized candles
• Great interest in wooden wicks
• Rapid growth of ecommerce

Challenges in the candle industry include:

• Labor shortage
• Environmental concerns

What kind of people work in a candle business?

• Gender – 65% of candle makers in the US are female, while 35% are male.(( https://www.zippia.com/candle-maker-jobs/demographics/#gender-statistics ))
• Average level of education – 44% of candle makers have a high school diploma.(( https://www.zippia.com/candle-maker-jobs/demographics/#degree-level-types ))
• Average age – The average age of a candle maker is 44 years old.(( https://www.zippia.com/candle-maker-jobs/demographics/#age-statistics ))

How much does it cost to start a candle business?

The startup costs for a candle business depend almost entirely on your starting inventory, which is the largest cost. In general, to get you started in a modest capacity, startup costs will range from about $1,000 to nearly $1,700.

You will need several different items to launch your candle business, including special equipment you’ll need to purchase. Websites like Candle Science , Candles and Supplies , and CandleWic offer a comprehensive selection of candle-making equipment. Here is a list to get you started:

• Aluminum melting pitcher
• Aluminum pouring pot
• Glass thermometer
• Wick bars and holders
• Molds, wax, wicks
• Fragrance materials
• Measuring cup(s)
• Clothespins

How much can you earn from a candle business?

Candles can be made for a relatively low cost and sold at a high margin, from 30% all the way to 75% in net margin. The total potential earnings for a candle business depend on your level of production. For example, if you’re selling candles at $10 each and they cost you $5 to make, then you make $5 for each sale and your gross profit margin is 50%. 

In your first year or two, you could work from home and sell 500 candles a month, bringing in $60,000 in annual revenue. This would mean $30,000 in profit, assuming that 50% margin. As your brand gains recognition, sales could climb to 1,500 candles a month. At this stage, you’d rent a storefront and hire staff, reducing your profit margin to around 40%. With annual revenue of $180,000, you’d make a tidy profit of $72,000.

Candleers, a candle-making advisory, estimates that the average candle maker earns $50,000 per year , with the bottom 10% making less than $25,000 and the top 10% checking in at more than $100,000. Simply put, annual earnings will depend on how many candles you are selling and at what price point you are selling them.

Ultimately, your candle business’ earnings will be heavily dependent on the cost of inventory and the cost of making the candles. Your per candle price should be determined by your costs and how much you hope to earn from each sale. Candle-making has relatively low fixed costs, so this ratio will be among the most important aspects of your business.

To find the right price, research the prices of your closest competition.

What barriers to entry are there?

• Knowledge of candle-making – Basic barrier for any candle maker. While not the most difficult process in the world, learning candle-making requires time and focus.
• Access to top suppliers – The most successful candle makers typically secure relationships with top suppliers such as Amazon, Etsy, Shopify, and others.
• Designs must be up-to-date – Candle makers need to keep up with the latest customer desires for new scents, shapes, and styles.
• More than a full-time job – A candle maker’s earnings depend on the amount of time and energy they are willing to devote to the work.

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Step 2: hone your idea.

Now that you know what’s involved in starting a candle business, it’s a good idea to hone your concept in preparation to enter a competitive market. 

Market research will give you the upper hand, even if you’re already positive that you have a perfect product or service. Conducting market research is important, because it can help you understand your customers better, who your competitors are, and your business landscape.

Why? Identify an opportunity

The first thing an aspiring candle business owner should do is assess their skills and knowledge about candles in relation to the larger market. You can find good opportunities with some simple research into the most popular candles and their makers. Try to answer questions like: What are the most popular candle websites and what are their bestselling products? Which price points are most appealing? At which cost could you produce the same candles, and what materials would you need to do so?

Your business brand will be determined as a result of your research and the market opportunity you choose to target with your candle creations. You might go in for wildly shaped or exotically scented niche-market candles, or go for a mass market product. The choice is entirely up to you!

What? Determine your products or services

Make a list of all of the candles you might like to make. Some of the popular candle types, each appealing to different segments of buyers, include but are not limited to:

• Scented and aromatherapy candles
• Twisted and other sculpted candles
• Decorative and other artistic candles
• Vegan candles
• Soy candles
• Odor-eliminating candles
• Bug repellant candles
• Long-lasting candles

Each candle could require different ingredients and a different process of creation. You should consider which type of candles you’d like to define your brand. This will determine your material needs, production schedule, and marketing.

How much should you charge for your candles?

Most homemade candles you’ll find online are priced in the $15 to $30 range. Specialty candles that provide a special scent or artistic design will of course be more expensive than straightforward candles of traditional shape and size.

You should price your candles based on your costs and your profit expectations informed by market norms. It’s best to do a good deal of market research before settling on your price points.

Once you know your costs, you can use this Step By Step profit margin calculator to determine your mark-up and final price points. Remember, the prices you use at launch should be subject to change if warranted by the market.

Who? Identify your target market

Different candle types will be popular for different market segments, and at different times of the year. As noted above, citrus and fruit-scented candles will be popular in the warmer months, while mint-scented candles will do better in winter.

Women tend to be bigger candle buyers than men, and homeowners buy more than renters.

Spas and yoga centers, restaurants, retailers, and other small businesses that rely on candles to create a certain ambiance will also be in your target market.

Depending on the type of candle you produce, some will meet the desires of a specific customer – such as eco-friendly, vegan candles, or highly decorative candles. And keep in mind, the more original and exotic your niche, the more you may be able to charge!

Where? Choose your business premises

In the early stages, you may want to run your business from home to keep costs low. But as your business grows, you’ll likely need to hire workers for various roles and may need to rent out a storefront. You can find commercial space to rent in your area on sites such as Cra igslist , Crexi , and Instant Offices .

When choosing a commercial space, you may want to follow these rules of thumb:

• Central location accessible via public transport
• Ventilated and spacious, with good natural light
• Flexible lease that can be extended as your business grows
• Ready-to-use space with no major renovations or repairs needed

Step 3: Brainstorm a Candle Business Name

Your business name is your business identity, so choose one that encapsulates your objectives, services, and mission in just a few words. You probably want a name that’s short and easy to remember, since much of your business, and your initial business in particular, will come from word-of-mouth referrals.

Here are some ideas for brainstorming your business name:

• Short, unique, and catchy names tend to stand out
• Names that are easy to say and spell tend to do better
• The name should be relevant to your product or service offerings
• Ask around — family, friends, colleagues, social media — for suggestions
• Including keywords in the name, such as “candle” or “wax”, boosts SEO
• Choose a name that allows for expansion: “Bright Flame Candles” rather than “Aromatherapy Candles”
• Avoid location-based names that might hinder future expansion
• Use online tools like the Step by Step business name generator . Just type in a few keywords and hit “generate” and you’ll have dozens of suggestions at your fingertips.

Once you’ve got a list of potential names, visit the website of the US Patent and Trademark Office to make sure they are available for registration and check the availability of related domain names using our Domain Name Search tool. Using “.com” or “.org” sharply increases credibility, so it’s best to focus on these. 

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Finally, make your choice among the names that pass this screening and go ahead with domain registration and social media account creation. Your business name is one of the key differentiators that sets your business apart. Once you pick your company name, and start with the branding, it is hard to change the business name. Therefore, it’s important to carefully consider your choice before you start a business entity.

Step 4: Create a Candle Making Business Plan

Every business needs a plan, a rough outline that helps guide a startup through the launch process while maintaining focus on key goals. A business plan is also crucial for helping potential partners and investors understand your company and vision:

• Executive Summary: Brief overview of the entire business plan; should be written after the plan is complete.
• Business Overview: Overview of the company, vision, mission, ownership, and corporate goals.
• Product and Services: Describe your shop’s services in detail.
• Market Analysis: Assess market trends such as variations in demand and prospects for growth, and do a SWOT analysis .
• Competitive Analysis: Analyze main competitors, assess their strengths and weaknesses, and create a list of the advantages of your services.
• Sales and Marketing: Examine your companies’ unique selling propositions (USPs) and develop sales, marketing, and promotional strategies.
• Management Team: Overview of management team, detailing their roles and professional background, along with a corporate hierarchy.
• Operations Plan: Your company’s operational plan includes procurement, office location, key assets and equipment, and other logistical details.
• Financial Plan: Three years of financial planning, including startup costs, break-even analysis, profit and loss estimates, cash flow, and balance sheet.

If you’ve never created a business plan, it can be an intimidating task. You might consider hiring a business plan specialist to create a top-notch business plan for you.

Step 5: Register Your Business

Registering your business is an absolutely crucial step — a prerequisite to paying taxes, raising capital, opening a bank account, and other guideposts on the road to getting a business up and running.

Plus, registration is exciting because it makes the entire process official. Once it’s done, you have your own business!

Choose where to register your company

Your business location is important because it can affect taxes, legal requirements, and revenue. Most people will register their business in the state where they live, but if you are planning to expand, you might consider looking elsewhere, as some states could offer real advantages when it comes to candle making. 

If you’re willing to move, you could really maximize your business! Keep in mind, it’s relatively easy to transfer your business to another state. 

Choose your business structure

Business entities come in several varieties, each with its pros and cons. The legal structure you choose for your candle business will shape your taxes, personal liability, and business registration requirements, so choose wisely.

Here are the main options:

• Sole Proprietorship – The most common structure for small businesses makes no legal distinction between company and owner. All income goes to the owner, who’s also liable for any debts, losses, or liabilities incurred by the business. The owner pays taxes on business income on his or her personal tax return.
• General Partnership – Similar to a sole proprietorship, but for two or more people. Again, owners keep the profits and are liable for losses. The partners pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.
• Limited Liability Company (LLC) – Combines the characteristics of corporations with those of sole proprietorships or partnerships. Again, the owners are not personally liable for debts.
• C Corp – Under this structure, the business is a distinct legal entity and the owner or owners are not personally liable for its debts. Owners take profits through shareholder dividends, rather than directly. The corporation pays taxes, and owners pay taxes on their dividends, which is sometimes referred to as double taxation.
• S Corp – An S-Corporation refers to the tax classification of the business but is not a business entity. An S-Corp can be either a corporation or an LLC , which just need to elect to be an S-Corp for tax status. In an S-Corp, income is passed through directly to shareholders, who pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.

We recommend that new business owners choose LLC as it offers liability protection and pass-through taxation while being simpler to form than a corporation. You can form an LLC in as little as five minutes using an online LLC formation service. They will check that your business name is available before filing, submit your articles of organization , and answer any questions you might have.

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Step 6: Register for Taxes

The final step before you’re able to pay taxes is getting an Employer Identification Number , or EIN. You can file for your EIN online or by mail or fax: visit the IRS website to learn more. Keep in mind, if you’ve chosen to be a sole proprietorship you can simply use your social security number as your EIN.

Once you have your EIN, you’ll need to choose your tax year. Financially speaking, your business will operate on a calendar year (January–December), or a fiscal year, a 12-month period that can start in any month. This will determine your tax cycle, while your business structure will determine which taxes you’ll pay.

The IRS website also offers a tax-payers checklist , and taxes can be filed online.

It is important to consult an accountant or other professional to help you with your taxes to ensure you are completing them correctly.

Step 7: Fund your Business

Securing financing is your next step and there are plenty of ways to raise capital:

• Bank loans: This is the most common method but getting approved requires a rock-solid business plan and strong credit history.
• SBA-guaranteed loans: The Small Business Administration can act as guarantor, helping gain that elusive bank approval via an SBA-guaranteed loan .
• Government grants: A handful of financial assistance programs help fund entrepreneurs. Visit Grants.gov to learn which might work for you.
• Friends and Family: Reach out to friends and family to provide a business loan or investment in your concept. It’s a good idea to have legal advice when doing so because SEC regulations apply.
• Crowdfunding: Websites like Kickstarter and Indiegogo offer an increasingly popular low-risk option, in which donors fund your vision. Entrepreneurial crowdfunding sites like Fundable and WeFunder enable multiple investors to fund your business.
• Personal: Self-fund your business via your savings or the sale of property or other assets.

Bank and SBA loans are probably the best options, other than friends and family, for funding a candle business. You might also try crowdfunding if you have an innovative concept. 

Step 8: Apply for Candle Making Business Licenses and Permits

Starting a candle business requires obtaining a number of licenses and permits from local, state, and federal governments.

Federal regulations, licenses, and permits associated with starting your business include doing business as (DBA), health licenses and permits from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration ( OSHA ), trademarks, copyrights, patents, and other intellectual properties, as well as industry-specific licenses and permits. 

You may also need state-level and local county or city-based licenses and permits. The license requirements and how to obtain them vary, so check the websites of your state, city, and county governments or contact the appropriate person to learn more. 

You could also check this SBA guide for your state’s requirements, but we recommend using MyCorporation’s Business License Compliance Package . They will research the exact forms you need for your business and state and provide them to ensure you’re fully compliant.

This is not a step to be taken lightly, as failing to comply with legal requirements can result in hefty penalties.

If you feel overwhelmed by this step or don’t know how to begin, it might be a good idea to hire a professional to help you check all the legal boxes.

Step 9: Open a Business Bank Account

Before you start making money, you’ll need a place to keep it, and that requires opening a bank account .

Keeping your business finances separate from your personal account makes it easy to file taxes and track your company’s income, so it’s worth doing even if you’re running your candle  business as a sole proprietorship. Opening a business bank account is quite simple, and similar to opening a personal one. Most major banks offer accounts tailored for businesses — just inquire at your preferred bank to learn about their rates and features.

Banks vary in terms of offerings, so it’s a good idea to examine your options and select the best plan for you. Once you choose your bank, bring in your EIN (or Social Security Number if you decide on a sole proprietorship), articles of incorporation, and other legal documents and open your new account. 

Step 10: Get Business Insurance

Business insurance is an area that often gets overlooked yet it can be vital to your success as an entrepreneur. Insurance protects you from unexpected events that can have a devastating impact on your business.

Here are some types of insurance to consider:

• General liability: The most comprehensive type of insurance, acting as a catch-all for many business elements that require coverage. If you get just one kind of insurance, this is it. It even protects against bodily injury and property damage.
• Business Property: Provides coverage for your equipment and supplies.
• Equipment Breakdown Insurance: Covers the cost of replacing or repairing equipment that has broken due to mechanical issues.
• Worker’s compensation: Provides compensation to employees injured on the job.
• Property: Covers your physical space, whether it is a cart, storefront, or office.
• Commercial auto: Protection for your company-owned vehicle.
• Professional liability: Protects against claims from a client who says they suffered a loss due to an error or omission in your work.
• Business owner’s policy (BOP): This is an insurance plan that acts as an all-in-one insurance policy, a combination of the above insurance types.

Step 11: Prepare to Launch

As opening day nears, prepare for launch by reviewing and improving some key elements of your business. 

Essential software and tools

Being an entrepreneur often means wearing many hats, from marketing to sales to accounting, which can be overwhelming. Fortunately, many websites and digital tools are available to help simplify many business tasks.  

You may want to use industry-specific software, such as Craftybase to track material and product stock, log expenses, and update pricing. You can also use NetSuite Commerce to manage your online and in-store transactions.

• Popular web-based accounting programs for smaller businesses include Quickbooks , Freshbooks , and Xero . 
• If you’re unfamiliar with basic accounting, you may want to hire a professional, especially as you begin. The consequences for filing incorrect tax documents can be harsh, so accuracy is crucial.

Develop your website

Website development is crucial because your site is your online presence and needs to convince prospective clients of your expertise and professionalism.

You can create your own website using services like WordPress , Wix , or Squarespace . This route is very affordable, but figuring out how to build a website can be time-consuming. If you lack tech-savvy, you can hire a web designer or developer to create a custom website for your business.

They are unlikely to find your website, however, unless you follow Search Engine Optimization ( SEO ) practices. These are steps that help pages rank higher in the results of top search engines like Google. 

Some of your business will come from the casual passerby or online visitors, but you should still invest in digital marketing! Getting the word out is especially important for new businesses, as it’ll boost customer and brand awareness. 

Once your website is up and running, link it to your social media accounts and vice versa. Social media is a great tool for promoting your business because you can create engaging posts that advertise your products: 

• Facebook: Great platform for paid advertising, allows you to target specific demographics, like men under age 50 in the Cleveland area. 
• Instagram: Same benefits as Facebook but with different target audiences.
• Website: SEO will help your website appear closer to the top in relevant search results, a crucial element for increasing sales. Make sure that you optimize calls to action on your website. Experiment with text, color, size, and position of calls to action such as “Buy Now”. This can sharply increase purchases.
• Google and Yelp: For businesses that rely on local clientele, getting listed on Yelp and Google My Business can be crucial to generating awareness and customers.

Kickstart Marketing

Take advantage of your website, social media presence, and real-life activities to increase awareness of your offerings and build your brand. Some suggestions include:

• Competitions and giveaways – Generate interest by offering prizes for customers who complete a certain action, such as half off on the fifth purchase.
• Signage – Put up eye-catching signage at your store and website. 
• Flyering – Distribute flyers in your neighborhood and at industry events.
• In-Person Sales – Offer your candles at local markets and trade shows. 
• Post a video – Post a video about your candles. Use humor and maybe it will go viral!
• Limited edition – Offer a one-time version of a special scented candle.
• Seek out referrals – Offer incentives to generate customer referrals to new clients. 
• Paid ads on social media – Choose sites that will reach your target market and do targeted ads.
• Testimonials – Share customer testimonials about how they love your candles.
• Create infographics – Post infographics and include them in your content.

Focus on USPs

Unique selling propositions, or USPs, are the characteristics of a product or service that sets it apart from the competition. Customers today are inundated with buying options, so you’ll have a real advantage if they are able to quickly grasp how your candle business meets their needs or wishes. It’s wise to do all you can to ensure your USPs stand out on your website and in your marketing and promotional materials, stimulating buyer desire. 

Global pizza chain Domino’s is renowned for its USP: “Hot pizza in 30 minutes or less, guaranteed.” Signature USPs for your candle business could be:

• Regional or seasonal scents
• Twisted and unusual designs
• Aromatherapy candles
• Eco-friendly and vegan candles
• Visually satisfying online store with a customizable selection
• Lifestyle and decor recommendations with every candle order
• Branded Pinterest posts detailing candle ideas
• Reusable candles

You may not like to network or use personal connections for business gain. But your personal and professional networks likely offer considerable untapped business potential. Maybe that Facebook friend you met in college is now running a candle business, or a LinkedIn contact of yours is connected to dozens of potential clients. Maybe your cousin or neighbor has been making candles for years and can offer invaluable insight and industry connections. 

The possibilities are endless, so it’s a good idea to review your personal and professional networks and reach out to those with possible links to or interest in candles. You’ll probably generate new customers or find companies with which you could establish a partnership. Online businesses might also consider affiliate marketing as a way to build relationships with potential partners and boost business.

Step 12: Build Your Team

You may not need any employees if you are starting out small from a home-based office. But as your business grows, you will likely need workers to fill various job roles. The potential employees for a candle business include:

• Candle Maker
• Label Maker
• Packer and Shipper
• Marketing Strategist
• IT Specialist for your website 

At some point, you may need to hire all of these positions or simply a few, depending on the size and needs of your business. You might also hire multiple workers for a single role or a single worker for multiple roles, again depending on need. 

Free-of-charge methods to recruit employees include posting ads on popular platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, or Jobs.com. You might also consider a premium recruitment option, such as advertising on Indeed , Glassdoor , or ZipRecruiter . Further, if you have the resources, you could consider hiring a recruitment agency to help you find talent. 

Step 13: Run a Candle Business – Start Making Money!

Scented candles are widely thought to melt stress, induce or improve sleep, provide therapeutic care, and more. That’s why candle making is a nearly $2 billion market in the US and remains one of the top business ideas globally. Now that you have all the information you need to start a candle business, it’s time to take the first step in your entrepreneurial journey. 

If you do proper research to better understand what your target market needs and craft a brilliant marketing strategy, you can light your way to success and start making a great profit!

Generally, a candle should be used within 12-15 months of buying it. For best results, while not in use they should be stored in a cool, dry place. Once in use, a typical homemade candle should burn strong for about as many hours as inches of length. For example, a 4-inch candle will burn for about 4 hours. Different materials and wicks will result in different candle burn durations.

Since candles can be fragile, it is best to package them in durable boxes and fill the interior with tissue paper or bubble wrap to cushion them during transit. For certain candles and climates, you may want to include frozen gel packets within the box to prevent any melting. See this guide from Paper Mart for some more tips and tricks on candle shipping.

Yes, scented and unscented candles – using the appropriate materials – are safe for use. Both synthesized and natural scents have been widely tested and deemed safe. Wicks and wax sold by candle makers and suppliers are also safe, as they must be approved by the relevant regulatory agencies. For more info on candle safety, consult this comprehensive FAQ from the National Candle Association.

No, insurance is not required to sell candles in the US. However, many candle makers buy liability insurance to help shield against any potential legal action. Ultimately, candles deal with fire, so there always liability concerns for sellers. The Armatage Candle Company provides a useful guide on candle maker insurance.

Candle making can be a profitable business, but success depends on various factors such as market demand, product quality, pricing, marketing, and effective business management. If you sell online, you’ll have to spend some money on digital marketing to get traffic to your site.

Starting and running a candle business can have its challenges, including sourcing quality materials, developing unique scents and designs, managing inventory and production, marketing and competition, and maintaining consistent quality.

Some popular candle categories include scented candles, soy candles, natural or organic candles, decorative or artisanal candles, and seasonal or themed candles. 

Yes, essential oils can be used in candle making. They are commonly used to add fragrance to candles and provide a natural scent experience. However, it’s important to use essential oils that are suitable for candle making and follow proper guidelines for their safe and effective use. The recommended usage rate for essential oils in candles is typically around 5-10% of the total wax weight.

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Candle Making Business Plan Template & Guidebook

Starting a candle making business is a great way to turn your creative passion into a rewarding business venture. Having a comprehensive business plan is key to successfully launching and growing your business. This article will guide you through the process of creating a business plan with the help of the #1 Candle Making Business Plan Template & Guidebook.

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• How to Start a Profitable Candle Making Business [11+ Steps]
• 10+ Best & Profitable Candle Making Business Ideas [2023]

How to Write a Candle Making Business Plan in 7 Steps:

1. describe the purpose of your candle making business..

The first step to writing your business plan is to describe the purpose of your candle making business. This includes describing why you are starting this type of business, and what problems it will solve for customers. This is a quick way to get your mind thinking about the customers’ problems. It also helps you identify what makes your business different from others in its industry.

It also helps to include a vision statement so that readers can understand what type of company you want to build.

Here is an example of a purpose mission statement for a candle making business:

Our mission at (Name of Candle Making Business) is to create luxurious and beautiful handcrafted candles that bring light, warmth, and joy to our customers. We strive to infuse our creations with the highest quality materials, in order to provide a luxury candle experience that surpasses expectations.

2. Products & Services Offered by Your Candle Making Business.

The next step is to outline your products and services for your candle making business. 

When you think about the products and services that you offer, it's helpful to ask yourself the following questions:

• What is my business?
• What are the products and/or services that I offer?
• Why am I offering these particular products and/or services?
• How do I differentiate myself from competitors with similar offerings?
• How will I market my products and services?

You may want to do a comparison of your business plan against those of other competitors in the area, or even with online reviews. This way, you can find out what people like about them and what they don’t like, so that you can either improve upon their offerings or avoid doing so altogether.

3. Build a Creative Marketing Stratgey.

If you don't have a marketing plan for your candle making business, it's time to write one. Your marketing plan should be part of your business plan and be a roadmap to your goals. 

A good marketing plan for your candle making business includes the following elements:

Target market

• Who is your target market?
• What do these customers have in common?
• How many of them are there?
• How can you best reach them with your message or product?

Customer base 

• Who are your current customers? 
• Where did they come from (i.e., referrals)?
• How can their experience with your candle making business help make them repeat customers, consumers, visitors, subscribers, or advocates for other people in their network or industry who might also benefit from using this service, product, or brand?

Product or service description

• How does it work, what features does it have, and what are its benefits?
• Can anyone use this product or service regardless of age or gender?
• Can anyone visually see themselves using this product or service?
• How will they feel when they do so? If so, how long will the feeling last after purchasing (or trying) the product/service for the first time?

Competitive analysis

• Which companies are competing with yours today (and why)? 
• Which ones may enter into competition with yours tomorrow if they find out about it now through word-of-mouth advertising; social media networks; friends' recommendations; etc.)
• What specific advantages does each competitor offer over yours currently?

Marketing channels

• Which marketing channel do you intend to leverage to attract new customers?
• What is your estimated marketing budget needed?
• What is the projected cost to acquire a new customer?
• How many of your customers do you instead will return?

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4. Write Your Operational Plan.

Next, you'll need to build your operational plan. This section describes the type of business you'll be running, and includes the steps involved in your operations. 

In it, you should list:

• The equipment and facilities needed
• Who will be involved in the business (employees, contractors)
• Financial requirements for each step
• Milestones & KPIs
• Location of your business
• Zoning & permits required for the business

What equipment, supplies, or permits are needed to run a candle making business?

• Candle Making Supplies: Wax, wicks, dyes, fragrances, molds, and other ingredients
• Equipment: Melting pots, thermometers, pouring jugs and stirring tool
• Permits: Depending on the local regulations in your area you may need to apply for a business license or register with the local municipality.

5. Management & Organization of Your Candle Making Business.

The second part of your candle making business plan is to develop a management and organization section.

This section will cover all of the following:

• How many employees you need in order to run your candle making business. This should include the roles they will play (for example, one person may be responsible for managing administrative duties while another might be in charge of customer service).
• The structure of your management team. The higher-ups like yourself should be able to delegate tasks through lower-level managers who are directly responsible for their given department (inventory and sales, etc.).
• How you’re going to make sure that everyone on board is doing their job well. You’ll want check-ins with employees regularly so they have time to ask questions or voice concerns if needed; this also gives you time to offer support where necessary while staying informed on how things are going within individual departments too!

6. Candle Making Business Startup Expenses & Captial Needed.

This section should be broken down by month and year. If you are still in the planning stage of your business, it may be helpful to estimate how much money will be needed each month until you reach profitability.

Typically, expenses for your business can be broken into a few basic categories:

Startup Costs

Startup costs are typically the first expenses you will incur when beginning an enterprise. These include legal fees, accounting expenses, and other costs associated with getting your business off the ground. The amount of money needed to start a candle making business varies based on many different variables, but below are a few different types of startup costs for a candle making business.

Running & Operating Costs

Running costs refer to ongoing expenses related directly with operating your business over time like electricity bills or salaries paid out each month. These types of expenses will vary greatly depending on multiple variables such as location, team size, utility costs, etc.

Marketing & Sales Expenses

You should include any costs associated with marketing and sales, such as advertising and promotions, website design or maintenance. Also, consider any additional expenses that may be incurred if you decide to launch a new product or service line. For example, if your candle making business has an existing website that needs an upgrade in order to sell more products or services, then this should be listed here.

7. Financial Plan & Projections

A financial plan is an important part of any business plan, as it outlines how the business will generate revenue and profit, and how it will use that profit to grow and sustain itself. To devise a financial plan for your candle making business, you will need to consider a number of factors, including your start-up costs, operating costs, projected revenue, and expenses. 

Here are some steps you can follow to devise a financial plan for your candle making business plan:

• Determine your start-up costs: This will include the cost of purchasing or leasing the space where you will operate your business, as well as the cost of buying or leasing any equipment or supplies that you need to start the business.
• Estimate your operating costs: Operating costs will include utilities, such as electricity, gas, and water, as well as labor costs for employees, if any, and the cost of purchasing any materials or supplies that you will need to run your business.
• Project your revenue: To project your revenue, you will need to consider the number of customers you expect to have and the average amount they will spend on each visit. You can use this information to estimate how much money you will make from selling your products or services.
• Estimate your expenses: In addition to your operating costs, you will need to consider other expenses, such as insurance, marketing, and maintenance. You will also need to set aside money for taxes and other fees.
• Create a budget: Once you have estimated your start-up costs, operating costs, revenue, and expenses, you can use this information to create a budget for your business. This will help you to see how much money you will need to start the business, and how much profit you can expect to make.
• Develop a plan for using your profit: Finally, you will need to decide how you will use your profit to grow and sustain your business. This might include investing in new equipment, expanding the business, or saving for a rainy day.

Frequently Asked Questions About Candle Making Business Plans:

Why do you need a business plan for a candle making business.

A business plan is an essential document for anyone launching a new business or looking to expand an existing one. It serves as a roadmap to ensure that all aspects of the business are clearly laid out before beginning operations. A business plan for a candle making business should include details about the target market, product lines, competitive advantages, potential risks and growth potential. The plan should also contain financial projections and a pricing strategy to help guide the development of the business.

Who should you ask for help with your candle making business plan?

You should ask for help from a professional business consultant or a Small Business Administration (SBA) representative. They will be able to provide you with the resources and guidance necessary to create an effective business plan. Additionally, you could look into online business planning tools, including Business Plan Pro and LivePlan, which can help guide you through the process of creating your plan.

Can you write a candle making business plan yourself?

Writing a business plan for a candle making business can be complex, especially when factoring in the details. It is possible to write a business plan yourself, but there are many helpful resources available that can provide guidance. An effective business plan should include industry analysis, market research, product description and pricing, management and operations plans, financial plans, and marketing plans. Consulting with professional business advisors or online services can help provide the necessary structure and skills to write an effective business plan.

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I'm Nick, co-founder of newfoundr.com, dedicated to helping aspiring entrepreneurs succeed. As a small business owner with over five years of experience, I have garnered valuable knowledge and insights across a diverse range of industries. My passion for entrepreneurship drives me to share my expertise with aspiring entrepreneurs, empowering them to turn their business dreams into reality.

Through meticulous research and firsthand experience, I uncover the essential steps, software, tools, and costs associated with launching and maintaining a successful business. By demystifying the complexities of entrepreneurship, I provide the guidance and support needed for others to embark on their journey with confidence.

From assessing market viability and formulating business plans to selecting the right technology and navigating the financial landscape, I am dedicated to helping fellow entrepreneurs overcome challenges and unlock their full potential. As a steadfast advocate for small business success, my mission is to pave the way for a new generation of innovative and driven entrepreneurs who are ready to make their mark on the world.

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Candle Making Business Plan Template

AUG.29, 2018

Do you want to start candle making business?

Are you planning to start candle business ? What many people do not know is candles still remain popular even today despite the fact they were primarily introduced for illumination purposes. Candles have been there for centuries and used in different civilizations and cultures. Even with the introduction of electricity, the role of candles has been redefined and they still continue to be an important item in any home or business. In the U.S. 7 out of 10 households use candles meaning the market is still excellent. Uniquely branded candles are the most popular home décor items which are on very high demand. Fortunately, candle making is not a capital intensive business and with a good business plan, you can be successful.

Executive Summary

2.1 the business.

The candle-making businesses will be registered under the name Wax Glow Candle and will be situated in Houston, Texas. The business will be owned by Susan Cook who is an experienced chandler. This business plan outlines how to start a candle business step by step to help anyone interested in venturing into candle making.

2.2 Management Team

Prior to starting candle business , Susan Cook worked as a professional Chandler and boasts of 20 years’ experience in the candle-making industry. She is extensively knowledgeable having worked for large and reputable organizations in the course of her career.

2.3 Customer Focus

Susan has worked in the candle and scent industry for long and therefore, has an in-depth understanding of customer patterns and segments. Given her long career in the business, she is aware of the changing customer trends and which market segments are in need of unique candle brands. She’s also aware that customers are primarily looking for uniquely branded homemade candles.

2.4 Business Target

Susan Cook knows where she needs to concentrate her efforts in order to maximize the revenue for her candle making businesses . Her intention is to proactively reach out to all segments in need of unique candle products. Her target is to be the best and most reputable candle making business in Houston as she knows she has knowledge her competitors might not be having.

Company Summary

3.1 company owners.

Susan Cook is an experienced chandler with extensive skills and experience in candle making. Before thinking of starting a candle company , she worked for big brands across the United States such as Proctor & Gamble as well as SC Johnson & Sons among others. She took a major role in making key decisions for the various departments she worked for quickly rising to top managerial level because of her commitment and professional skills. After working for twenty years, she decided it was time to venture into entrepreneurship.

3.2 Aim of Starting the Business

Even though candles have been there for centuries, they are still relevant to date meaning there is still rising demand from both households as well as businesses. Having been in the business with a clear understanding of how candles continue immensely influence the modern society, Susan Cook began to plan how to start a candle company that would effectively address the needs of today’s society.

3.3 How the Business will be Started

Wax Glow Candle will begin operations after a comprehensive market research has been completed by the relevant experts. In order to be successful, Susan knows her knowledge and experience will be a great asset that will be instrumental in making strategic decisions that will spur business growth. She has also worked closely with a team of financial experts to formulate a detailed financial analysis for the business.

Services for Customers

Wax Glow Candle plans to offer a wide variety of products and service in order to increase its competitiveness and get a larger market share. Susan knows the secret to start a candle business and have it succeed is to embrace creativity and offer clients a unique range of products. Given her experience and studying market trends, Wax Glow Candle is in a perfect position to capitalize on its strengths to achieve its business goals and increase revenue. The following products will be offered by Wax Glow Candle.

• Signature Scented candles with various fragrances such as strawberry, vanilla, cinnamon and mulberry among others
• Candle holders which come in a beautiful and vast array of types and designs
• Luminaries that are available in different sizes and colors
• Various types of Melting oils

Marketing Analysis of Candle Making Business

Despite candles being around for numerous centuries, they still play a vital role in today’s society. Aside from illumination, the era of scented candles and fragrances has ushered in a new perspective and the market it constantly looking for unique and creatively made candles for use in homes, businesses and special occasions. In this business plan for candle making , Wax Glow Candle has done an extensive market analysis and identified untapped opportunities to harness in order to grow business revenue.

5.1 Market Segment

For Wax Glow Candle to realize its dreams, the candle making businesses has identified the appropriate customer markets to advertise its products and services. Any candle making business plan sample should clearly outline who potential customers are and how the business intends to establish connections.

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5.1.1. Households

Houston is a large city with over a million households which is a key market for Wax Glow Candle. The first customers for candles are households and residential establishments who use them for various purposes. Even though candles in the home are rarely used for illumination, many homes still buy candles for various purposes such as decoration. Scented candles have become a leading product for households and Wax Glow Candle has an opportunity to put in place creative marketing strategies to reach a wide population segment. When starting your own candle business , the domestic market is a key segment that cannot be ignored considering most of the products from Wax Glow Candle are tailored for domestic use.

5.1.2 Gift Shops

Nowadays, many people consider unique candles as an awesome gift item which can be presented on various occasions. In most gift shops, you will find various types of unique candles and associated accessories which are sold primarily as gift items. Houston has a large number of gift shops and it’s important for Wax Glow Candle to find ways of forming partnerships with local gift shops with an aim of stocking their products in gift shops. Because they have direct access customers, gift shops can be of great benefit and help the candle making businesses to reach its revenue targets.

5.1.3 Hotels and Restaurants

The hospitality industry is a key use of candles which are placed in various sections of hotels and restaurants. Exclusive restaurants and hotels love using candles on their dining tables and bathrooms to create a relaxing and elegant environment. Hospitality based businesses are always in need of good quality and unique candles to be utilized for various purposes.

5.1.4 Beauty and Massage Parlors

Candles are a common feature in massage and beauty parlors who invest heavily in various kinds of candles in their establishments. Houston and its surrounding has many massage parlors which are great customer prospects for Wax Glow Candle. With the right strategies put in place, candle making businesses profitable ventures include approaching business that require different types of candle related products.

5.2 Business Target

Wax Glow Candle plans to establish itself in Houston which is a major American city with plenty of opportunities that can be explored. Wax Glow Candle hopes to realize an annual sales growth of between 25%-30% in the first three years of operation.

5.3 Product Pricing

How to start a candle making business requires an extensive market research in order to find out pricing structures of competitors. This is done with an aim of coming up with a creative pricing strategy that will attract customers.

Wax Glow Candle intends to come up with an effective marketing strategy to enable the candle making business reach out to all its intended customer targets. If you want to start a candle making businesses , there must be a good plan in place that will help you reach out to as many prospective clients as possible.

6.1 Competitive Analysis

Wax Glow Candle has carried out an extensive market research in order to identify the most effective marketing strategies that will see the business expand its market share, compete effectively and realize its revenue targets.

6.2 Sales Strategy

For Wax Glow Candle to effectively reach out to the market, this business plan for candle making  to implement the strategies below to advertise its range of products.

• Send introductory letters to businesses and stakeholders to create awareness about the candle making businesses
• Organize an opening party and invite guests from target markets to advertise the business. During the opening, offer visitors free samples of products to allow them have a feel of the quality
• Attend exhibitions and trade shows which are awesome platforms for advertising the candle making businesses
• Market the business on social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Advertise the business online using Google Ads.
• Advertise Wax Glow Candle on local directory listings
• Create a simple search engine optimized website to boost the online presence of the candle making businesses for purposes of gaining higher online rankings
• Advertise Wax Glow Candle on local broadcast and print channels such as newspapers, TV and radio

6.3 Sales Forecast

How to start a candle business should entail a comprehensive sales forecast that will spell out the roadmap for Wax Glow Candle.

Personnel Plan

If you’re planning on starting a candle making businesses , the first thing to think about is to find a team of qualified staff who will assist in running the business. Susan Cook intends to hire a competent team of staff to work in various departments. A personnel plan has been formulated to come up with the best strategy for business of hiring qualified and experienced staff.

7.1 Personnel Plan

To help the candle making business realize business success, the following team of staff will be employed to work in Wax Glow Candle. Susan Cook who is the owner of the candle making businesses will be the Chief Executive Officer in charge of the entire business. She will be assisted by the following team of staff.

• 1 Assistant Manager
• 2 Sales and Marketing Executives
• 1 Customer Service Executive
• 2 Chandlers
• 1 Accountant

Successful applicants will undergo comprehensive training a few weeks before the business officially opens its doors to the public.

Financial Plan

Wax Glow Candle has come up with a detailed financial plan which is critical for starting a candle business . To ensure candle making business profit is a reality, it is critical to analyze and document various financial parameters before opening a business. Susan Cook intends to raise money for her business using her personal savings. Additionally, she plans to bring on board 2 investors and a bank loan for business plan to finance the budget deficit. candle making businesses  profit margin will be determined depending on how the business will excel.

Below is a comprehensive financial analysis for Wax Glow Candle.

8.1 Important Assumptions

The financial forecast for Wax Glow Candle is based on the assumptions below.

8.2 Brake-even Analysis

Wax Glow Candle brake-even analysis is shown in the graph below.

8.3 Projected Profit and Loss

8.3.1 monthly profit.

8.3.2 Yearly Profit

8.3.3 Monthly Gross Margin

8.3.4 Yearly Gross Margin

8.4 Projected Cash Flow

Below is a summary of Wax Glow Candle Pro forma cash flow, subtotal cash received, subtotal cash spent, subtotal cash from operations and subtotal cash spent on operations.

Download Candle Making Business Plan Sample in pdf

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Candle Making Business Plan

Growing demand, low startup costs, high margins, and a diverse market make candle-making a great business choice, especially for those who enjoy DIY projects and artistic expression. However, starting a business with proper planning can ensure your business is safe.

Are you looking to start writing a business plan for your candle making business? Creating a business plan is essential to starting, growing, and securing funding for your business. So we have prepared a candle making business plan template to help you start writing yours.

How to Write a Candle Making Business Plan?

Writing a candle making business plan is a crucial step toward the success of your business. Here are the key steps to consider when writing a business plan:

1. Executive Summary

An executive summary is the first section of the business plan intended to provide an overview of the whole business plan. Generally, it is written after the entire business plan is ready. Here are some components to add to your summary:

Start with a brief introduction:

Market opportunity:, describe your product:, management team:, financial highlights:, call to action:.

Ensure you keep your executive summary concise and clear, use simple language, and avoid jargon.

2. Business Overview

Depending on your business details, you’ll need different elements in your business overview. Still, there are some foundational elements like business name, legal structure, location, history, and mission statement that every business overview should include:

About the business:

Provide all the basic information about your business in this section like:

• The name and type of your candle business: mention whether you are a homemade candle manufacturer, factory-produced manufacturer, organic candle-making business, or any other candle manufacturing business.
• Company structure of your candle business, whether it is a sole proprietorship, partnership firm, or something else.
• Location of your business and why you selected that place.

Mission statement:

Business history:, future goals:.

This section should provide an in-depth understanding of your candle making business. Also, the business overview section should be engaging and precise.

3. Market Analysis

Market analysis provides a clear understanding of the market in which your candle making business will run along with the target market, competitors, and growth opportunities. Your market analysis should contain the following essential components:

Target market:

Market size and growth potential:, competitive analysis:, market trends:, regulatory environment:.

Some additional tips for writing the market analysis section of your business plan:

• Use various sources to gather data, including industry reports, market research studies, and surveys.
• Be specific and provide detailed information wherever possible.
• Include charts and graphs to help illustrate your key points.
• Keep your target audience in mind while writing the business plan.

4. Products And Services

The product and services section of a candle manufacturing business plan should describe the specific products that will be offered to customers. To write this section should include the following:

List the products:

• Create a list of the type of candles your candle business will offer, including scented, decorative, taper, pillar, soy, etc.
• Shipping and delivery: Explain how your business will handle the shipping of your products and if you will charge any additional fee for these services.

Emphasize product quality:

Overall, a business plan’s product and services section should be detailed, informative, and customer-focused. By providing a clear and compelling description of your offerings, you can help potential investors and readers understand the value of your business.

5. Sales And Marketing Strategies

Writing the sales and marketing strategies section means a list of strategies you will use to attract and retain your clients. Here are some key elements to include in your sales & marketing plan:

Develop your unique selling proposition (USP):

Determine your pricing strategy:, marketing strategies:, sales strategies:, customer retention:.

Overall, your business plan’s sales and marketing strategies section should outline your plans to attract and retain customers and generate revenue. Be specific, realistic, and data-driven in your approach, and be prepared to adjust your strategies based on feedback and results.

6. Operations Plan

When writing the operations plan section, it’s important to consider the various aspects of your business processes and procedures involved in operating a business. Here are the components to include in an operations plan:

Hiring plan:

Operational process:, equipment and raw materials:.

By including these key elements in your operations plan section, you can create a comprehensive plan that outlines how you will run your candle making business.

7. Management Team

The management team section provides an overview of the individuals responsible for running the candle making business. This section should provide a detailed description of the experience and qualifications of each manager, as well as their responsibilities and roles.

Key managers:

Organizational structure:, compensation plan:, board of advisors:.

Describe your company’s key personnel and highlight why your business has the fittest team.

8. Financial Plan

When writing the financial plan section of a business plan , it’s important to provide a comprehensive overview of your financial projections for the first few years of your business.

Profit & loss statement:

Cash flow statement:, balance sheet:, break-even point:, financing needs:.

Remember to be realistic with your financial projections and provide supporting evidence for your estimates.

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9. Appendix

When writing the appendix section, you should include any additional information that supports the main content of your plan. This may include financial statements, market research data, legal documents, and other relevant information.

• Include a table of contents for the appendix section to make it easy for readers to find specific information.
• Include financial statements such as income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements. These should be up-to-date and show your financial projections for at least the first three years of your business.
• Provide market research data, such as statistics on the size of the candle making industry, consumer demographics, and trends in the industry.
• Include any legal documents such as permits, licenses, and contracts.
• Provide any additional documentation related to your business plans, such as marketing materials, product brochures, and operational procedures.
• Use clear headings and labels for each section of the appendix so that readers can easily find the information they need.

Remember, the appendix section of your candle making business should only include relevant and essential information supporting your plan’s main content.

This candle making business plan sample will provide an idea for writing a successful candle making plan, including all the essential components of your business.

After this, if you still need clarification about writing an investment-ready candle making business plan to impress your audience, download our candle making business plan pdf.

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Frequently asked questions, why do you need a candle making business plan.

A business plan is an essential tool for anyone looking to start or run a successful candle making company. It helps to get clarity in your business, secures funding, and identifies potential challenges while starting and growing your candle making business.

Overall, a well-written plan can help you make informed decisions, which can contribute to the long-term success of your candle making business.

How to get funding for your candle making business?

There are several ways to get funding for your candle-making business, but self-funding is one of the most efficient and speedy funding options. Other options for funding are:

• Bank loan – You may apply for a loan in government or private banks.
• Small Business Administration (SBA) loan – SBA loans and schemes are available at affordable interest rates, so check the eligibility criteria before applying for it.
• Crowdfunding – The process of supporting a project or business by getting a lot of people to invest in your candle making business, usually online.
• Angel investors – Getting funds from angel investors is one of the most sought options for startups.
• Venture capital – Venture capitalists will invest in your business in exchange for a percentage of shares, so this funding option is also viable.

Apart from all these options, there are small business grants available, check for the same in your location and you can apply for it.

Where to find business plan writers for your candle making business?

There are many business plan writers available, but no one knows your business and idea better than you, so we recommend you write your candle manufacturing business plan and outline your vision as you have in your mind.

What is the easiest way to write your candle making business plan?

A lot of research is necessary for writing a business plan, but you can write your plan most efficiently with the help of any candle making business plan example and edit it as per your need. You can also quickly finish your plan in just a few hours or less with the help of our business plan software.

Business Planning Guide & Resources

We have plenty of  free business planning resources  available to help you with your planning. You can download our resources to learn all about business planning.

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Candle Making Business Plan Template Sample Pages

Thank you for viewing our candle making business plan template sample pages. This candle making business plan was written specifically for the candle industry and contains a full table of contents, example text, red instructional text, and references. Use this business plan template as a basis/foundation to create your own business plan upon.

Please scroll down below to view sample pages of the exact candle making business plan template you will be receiving.

Or Click here to learn more about this business plan template.

To learn more about this candle making business plan template click here.

•   Candle Business Plan Template(Microsoft Word)  –  $47.00
•   +Add Excel Worksheet (Recommended)  –  $35.00
•   +Add Funding Package Pitch Deck PowerPoint + 4 funding eBooks  –  $55.00
•   +Add Raising Capital Documents Bundle. 115 documents  –  $85.00

Add these other Do-It-Yourself items as needed: (Financial worksheet in Excel is highly recommended)  

Candle Making Financial Worksheet in Microsoft Excel an add-on option . (highly recommended) to calculate your finances. Investors love numbers and this excel worksheet will allow you to enter financial data specific to your business to produce proforma financial statements for use in your business plan. These Excel worksheets (Set-up, Start-up, Sales, Headcount, Inventory, Operating Expenses, Capital Budget, Equity & Debt, and Amortization Schedule) contain instructions, questions for you to answer, and boxes (cells) for data entry. Cells in which you are to answer questions or enter data are yellow. Purple cells contain formulas that will be calculated automatically.

Candle Making Funding Package an add-on option . (A must have if actively seeking investment) Includes a Microsoft PowerPoint slideshow template “Pitch Deck” to show lenders and investors your concept at a glance. It includes 12 slide candle making images with instructional text for you to insert your specific business information into.

This funding package also includes the Funding eBook bundle to educate you on your funding options and how to best present your business concept. These 4 eBooks guide you through individual interventions, second-party arrangements, corporate funding options, government interventions, managing business cash-flow, quick start funding overview, exit strategy, common mistakes to avoid when pitching your concept and much more.

Candle Making Business Startup and Raising Capital Documents Bundle an add-on option . 115 documents. (Investors want to know you are prepared. Show them you are with these professional business documents.) This 3 pack of business documents covering business assessment, startup and raising capital topics includes documents such as: Business Plan Guidelines, Strategic Planning Checklist, Trend Analysis Checklist, Executive Summary Template, Market Study Outline, Business Analysis Worksheet, Board of Directors Documents, Confidentiality Agreements, General Administration, Basic Financial Checklist and much more 115 documents in total.

Click here to view more details of this candle making business plan template.

Thank you once again for viewing our candle making Business Plan Template Sample Pages. This template should best be used as a basis to create your own professional business plan with.

Unlike other on or offline business plan “software” that just inserts your information into a generic template this candle making business plan template was written specifically from the ground up for the candle industry.

Candle Making Business Plan Template [Updated 2023]

Candle Making Home Business Plan Template

If you want to start a Candle Making business or expand your current Candle business, you need a business plan.

The following Candle Making business plan template gives you the key elements to include in a winning candle making company business plan.

You can download our business plan template (including a full, customizable financial model) to your computer here.

Sample Candle Business Plan Template

Below are links to each of the key sections of a business plan for candle making businesses:

I. Executive Summary – The Executive Summary provides a brief overview of your candle company.

II. Company Overview – The company analysis includes a detailed overview of your business including your legal structure and product & service offering.

III. Industry Analysis – This section will include market research that provide insights into market trends and the candle making industry.

IV. Customer Analysis – The customer analysis provides an overview of your target market.

V. Competitive Analysis – The competitive analysis will identify your main competitors and highlight your competitive advantage.

VI. Marketing Plan – This section includes your sales and marketing strategies, promotional strategies and advertising tactics.

VII. Operations Plan – The Operations Plan will include information on your business systems and processes.

VIII. Management Team – The management team section includes your team’s backgrounds, qualifications, and responsibilities.

IX. Financial Plan – The financial plan includes financial projections, a cash flow statement, profit and loss statement and balance sheet.

You can download our candle business plan template (including a full, customizable financial model) to your computer here.

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Candle Making Business Plan Home I. Executive Summary II. Company Overview III. Industry Analysis IV. Customer Analysis V. Competitive Analysis VI. Marketing Plan VII. Operations Plan VIII. Management Team IX. Financial Plan

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How to Start a Profitable Candle Making Business

Do you want to start a candle-making business and earn profits? Find in this article a step-by-step guide on starting a successful candle-making business with a low budget.

A small-scale candle manufacturing business can be a great way for entrepreneurs for earning extra money or even a full-time income. To start a candle making business, there are a few things you should consider to make your venture successful.

Here are the 10 Steps to Start Candle Making Business

1. learn how to make candles.

Firstly, learn how to make a perfect candle by taking an online class or in-person from experts as well as visiting the National Candle Association’s website: www.candles.org. You need to ensure that the candle burns from start to finish with a pleasant, strong scent. Also, ensure that the candle burns evenly with no residue left on the sides of the jar.

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2. Procure Licenses and Permits 

In starting a candle making business you will need legitimate business documentation depending on where you want to start the business. Talk to lawyers, and accountants to learn what permits you need to take while starting and running a candle-making business.

3. Choose a Business Structure

Choosing a proper business structure under which you are going to run your business of candle making. Different states provide varied options for forming a company.

For example, if you are in the United States, forming a sole proprietorship will cost you less but forming an LLC will provide you with certain benefits at some extra cost.

After receiving the necessary documents open a business bank account. Talk to insurance people and buy one which you find most appropriate.

Furthermore, create a catchy name for your candle business.

4. Choose What Products you are Going to Sell?

As with any business, the success of a candle manufacturing business also depends on finding and focusing on a niche. The candle is a product that caters to a variety of purposes and types by its nature. Broadly you need to determine the purpose of a normal candle or creative scented candle as a decor item.

Do some market research before starting a candle business. For the normal white color candle, you will need to determine size and shape. For a creative scented candle, you will need to determine what types of colors, designs, and shapes you will be making.

You need to decide what type of candle you want to sell i.e. soy, votive, hurricane, tea light, wickless, gel, jar, pillar, novelty, or scented candles.

5. Create a Candle Making Business Plan 

Write a business pl an with details of information about your niche and target audience, marketing, and public relations plans. Include a detailed analysis of competing candle segments, and three years expense budget with profit projections of your candle-making business.

If you are planning to start a candle making business at home or on a small scale, and not looking for funding, a simple single-page business plan will do. You just need to explore some basic aspects. They are the following:

• Target Market
• Startup & Recurring Costs
• Pricing plan
• How do you plan to sell your candle products?

6. Create the Right Setup 

Set up a work area of your own for making and shipping the candles and also you will need a computer for managing orders. Create a logo and printing materials like letterhead, business cards, catalogs, and brochures of your candle-making company.

You must ensure that each candle you sell has an appropriate warning label on it or you can give each customer written instructions on candle care and use. A low-cost, home-based candle business requires discipline, time management, and organizational skills. Fix the pricing of your candles carefully and competitively with ensuring a profit.

7. Raw Materials for Candle Business 

Find reliable vendors of raw materials like wax, color, fragrance, and crafts supplies. Fragrance trends are important as it is often seasonal. Adding fragrance and experimenting with color and artistic detail on the candles will definitely increase consumer demand for the product and the result is you are in more profit. Concentrate on other ornamentation-related items like bowls, jars, etc.

We list down some of the basic items you need to procure for making candles:

• Paraffin, gel, soy, beeswax, or other wax
• Jars, tins, and other containers according to the items you are making
• Fragrance Oils
• Coloring agents
• Packaging supplies

8. Find Places to Sell Your Candles

Contact nearby wholesalers and retailers and introduce your candle items. Craft fairs, home decor stores, gift stores, and grocery stores are potential customers of candles.

If you want to sell online, create an online store to showcase and sell your items. There are also marketplaces like Amazon, eBay, Etsy, etc where you can register as a seller and sell your candle products.

9. Bookkeeping

As a starter, it is very important to process the record of all financial transactions on a daily basis. Here lies the importance of proper bookkeeping. It will help you in analyzing the financial health of your candle-making business. Selecting proper accounting software is much needed if you are serious about business.

10. Promotion of Candle Making Business

You can start selling candles by renting a table at a craft show in your area, placing the candles in a retail location with a consignment agreement, or establishing a wholesale account with the retailers. Hotels, restaurants, and spas are the big audience for decorative scented candles.

Market yourself more than your candles by being professional and knowledgeable. Check all the products carefully before it goes to market. Create a business website of your own. Register your business with B2B portals to get online leads. update your website frequently with new products and specifications.

If you want to learn more about making and selling candles from home, take a look at  candleMaking4u   which covers all aspects of running a successful candle-making business.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is candle making business profitable.

The global candle market accounted for US$ 8,426.31 Mn in 2018. Industry experts predict the industry to grow to US$ 13,031.03 Mn. It is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.5% from 2019 to 2027.

If you plan properly with a good marketing strategy, candle-making indeed can be a highly profitable business.

What is the Cost of Candle Making Business?

The cost of making candles is not much. On average, an investment of around $50,000 is good enough to start a candle business.

What is the Profit Margin?

The profit margin is also better than a lot of other consumer products. One can easily make a profit percentage of more than 30% by selling candles.

To achieve break even it will take a minimum period of 4 months and the expected gross profit is 35 to 45 percent.

Candle-making business can be initiated with a small start budget from home. People purchase candles not only for religious purposes but also to scent and decorate their homes and business places. The popularity and consumer demand for scented and decorative candles create a tremendous business opportunity for innovative start-up entrepreneurs. Join a candle makers association and stay up-to-date on industry trends and connect with potential consumers. Promote your candle business online by making a promotional blog or website.

About the Author: 99businessideas.com led by Rupak Chakrabarty is committed to helping beginners, entrepreneurs, and small business owners in starting, managing, and growing their businesses.

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Candle Making Business Plan: How to Start, Requirements, Manufacturing Process, Cost, and Profit

Table of contents, requirements to start a candle-making business, legal requirements for selling homemade candles, raw material requirement for candle-making business, the candle-making process, candle-making business plan, cost/investment required for starting a candle business, candle-making business profit, the marketing plan, the financial plan, the operational plan.

Are you thinking about starting a candle-making business? If so, you’ll need to put together a business plan. This will help you to give the steps you need to take to get your candle-making business off the ground. This information will give you an overview of what you should include in your candle-making business plan. We’ll cover everything from your business model and product line to your target market and marketing strategy. By the end of this post, you will have all the information you need to start your candle-making business plan.

Candle making business plan

To start a candle-making business, you will need supplies and materials. First, you will need wax. You can choose to use paraffin wax, soy wax, beeswax, or a blend of these waxes. Then, you will need wicks. You can purchase pre-tabbed wicks or tab your wicks using a wick tabber. Wick tabbers can be found online or at some craft stores. Once you have your wax and wicks, you will need something to melt the wax in and pour it into your candle molds. An electric melting pot is recommended as it is less dangerous than using a double boiler on the stovetop.

You will also need some fragrance oil to add scent to your candles. Candle fragrance oil can be purchased online or at some craft stores. The fragrance oil amount you use will depend on the wax you are using and the strength of scent you want your candles to have. A general rule is to use about 1 ounce of fragrance oil per pound of wax, but this may change depending on the wax type and fragrance oil you use.

In addition to the supplies and materials listed above, you will also need some essential equipment for your candle-making business. This includes a scale for measuring ingredients, a pouring pitcher, stirring sticks, mold Release spray (optional), a thermometer, molds (silicone molds are best), labels, and packaging materials. 

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You need to know a few legal requirements when selling homemade candles. Firstly, all businesses in the US must have a federal tax ID number, which can be obtained from the IRS website. Secondly, if you’re selling candles that are scented or made with essential oils, you’ll need to include a list of components on the label. Lastly, it’s always best to check with the local city or county government to see if there are additional candle sales regulations.

To set up a candle-making business, you will need various raw materials. These include wax, wicks, fragrance oils, dyes, and containers. Wax is the base material for candles and comes in various types, including paraffin, beeswax, soy wax, and palm wax. Each type of wax has its properties that will affect the finished candle. For example, beeswax is more expensive than paraffin but has a natural honey scent that some customers prefer.

Wicks are made from cotton or other natural fibers and help draw the molten wax into the flame. The size and type of wick will depend on the wax you are using and the size and shape of your candle. Fragrance oils are used to add scent to candles and can be synthetic or natural. Synthetic fragrance oils are less expensive but sometimes have a chemical smell that some people do not like.

Natural fragrance oils are more expensive but tend to be a more pleasant smell. Dyes can add color to candles but are unnecessary if you use clear or white waxes. If you choose dyes, use ones specifically made for candles, as some dyes can clog wicks or cause other problems. Containers can be glass, metal, ceramic, or any other material that can hold molten wax without melting. 

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Making candles is a pretty straightforward process. All you need is a heat source, wax, molds, and wicks. Firstly, you’ll need to melt the wax. This can be done in a crockpot or a double boiler on low heat. Once the wax is melted and then add any desired fragrance or color, then pour the wax carefully into the molds. Allow the candles to cool completely before removing them from the molds. Finally, trim the wicks and enjoy your new candles!

If you’re thinking about starting a candle-making business, you need to consider some points. For starters, you’ll need to create a business plan outlining your start-up costs, target market, and marketing strategy. To get started, check out our blog post on creating a business plan for your candle-making business. This will give you a good foundation to work from as you start developing your plan.

Once you have your candle-making business plan in place, it’s time to start thinking about the supplies you’ll need to get started. You’ll need wax, wicks, fragrance oils, and colorants for candles. You can find these supplies at craft stores or online retailers specializing in candle-making supplies. Now that you have your supplies and business plan, it’s time to start marketing your candles.

There are different ways to do this, but some of the most effective include setting up an online store or selling at local craft fairs and markets. If you’re selling online, take good-quality photos of your candles and write enticing product descriptions. Consider creating eye-catching displays for craft fairs and markets that attract customers to your booth. And don’t forget about social media! Promote your candles on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to reach even more potential customers.

The cost of starting a candle business can vary depending on the candle type you want to make and sell. For example, if you want to make soy candles, you must invest in soy wax, wicks, and fragrance oils. The equipment needed to make soy candles includes a double boiler, thermometer, mold, and jars. You will also need a pouring pot and measuring cups if you pour your candles. The average cost of starting a soy candle business is between $200 and $600.

If you are interested in making beeswax candles, you must invest in beeswax, wicks, and essential oils. The equipment needed to make beeswax candles includes a double boiler, thermometer, mold, and jars. You will also need a pouring pot and measuring cups if you pour your candles. The average cost of starting a beeswax candle business is between $300 and $700.

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Keep some points in mind when making a profit in the candle-making business. Firstly, it is important to understand your costs well. This includes the cost of materials, labor, and overhead. If you have a good handle on your costs, you can price your candles accordingly and make a profit. Another important factor in making a profit in the candle-making business is to sell in volume. The more candles you sell, the more money you will make.

Therefore, it is important to focus on marketing and promotion to get your candles into the hands of as many people as possible. Finally, it is also important to offer various candles to appeal to a wide range of customers. By offering a variety of sizes, scents, and designs, you can maximize your chances of making a sale and earning a profit.

A candle-making business’s marketing plan should include various strategies to reach potential customers. Traditional advertising methods such as print, radio, and television can be used to promote the business. In addition, online marketing tactics like search engine optimization (SEO), social media marketing, and email marketing can be employed to reach a wider audience.

It is essential to consider the target market when developing a marketing plan for a candle-making business. Who is the ideal customer? What are their needs and desires? What are their buying habits? Once the target market is identified, the marketing strategy can be tailored to appeal to that audience.

There are many creative ways to market a candle-making business. For example, hosting a booth at a local craft fair or setting up an e-commerce website are excellent ways to reach potential customers. Offering discounts or free shipping on orders can also help to encourage sales. Whatever marketing strategies are used, it is important to track results so that changes can be made if necessary.

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As with any business, a candle-making business requires a detailed financial plan. This plan should include your start-up costs, operating expenses, and income projections. Start-up costs will include things like the cost of supplies, equipment, and any fees associated with registering your business. Operating expenses will include materials, packaging, shipping, and other ongoing costs associated with running your business.

Income projections should consider the retail price of your candles, the wholesale price if you plan to sell to retailers, and the number of candles you expect to sell each month. Creating a detailed financial plan is essential to the success of any business. By creating a comprehensive plan, you can ensure that your candle-making business has the best chance for success.

The operational plan for a candle-making business will include several key elements. Firstly, it is essential to have a clear idea of the scale of the operation and the type of candles you will be making. For example, if you only intend to make a small number of candles for personal use, you will not need the same equipment and raw materials as someone looking to start a large-scale production line.

Once you understand the size and scope of your operation, you will need to source the necessary supplies. This includes the raw materials for making the candles and any packaging and labeling requirements. It is important to get good quality supplies, as this will impact the final product.

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Once you have all the necessary supplies, you will need to develop a production process. This should be designed to maximize efficiency and quality control. For example, if you are making different types of candles, it may be helpful to set up separate production lines for each type. Ultimately, your operational plan should be designed to ensure that your candle-making business can run smoothly and profitably.

Starting a candle-making business can greatly tap into a growing industry while expressing your creativity. But before you get started in this business, it’s important to have a clear plan. Use our tips and templates to create a candle-making business plan to help you get organized and start on the right foot.

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Candle Making Business Plan- How To Start Your Own Profitable Startup

Candles that have been in existence since decades were earlier used as a source of lightning in India. But now with many more efficient lighting sources being invented, candles are used just as a decorative item. Candles are used in various forms in our country and the demand has been ever-increasing.

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Now that the uses of candles are increasing, the market potential has also been very significant. Apart from being used as a decor item in homes, scented candles are also equally famous for giving home the desired aroma.

Candle Making business undoubtedly holds a lot of potentials to become a high earning source of income. This low investment business plan can be pursued without any professional skills. Even housewives who are seeking for home-based business opportunities can give this a thought because Candle making a business plan makes a great part-time business.

Candles come in different shapes, sizes, aromas, and colors, and the procedure of making each of them is pretty easy. Following is the detailed business plan about the planning and execution of candle making business and how you can earn big profits from it.

Market Potential

The market potential of any product-based business plan relies mostly on the demand of the product in the market. And if we talk about candles, then the market provides a lot of scope for earning and expansion in business. The demand for candles is increasing because of its varied uses on different occasions.

Candles are also not a season depended product which means that the demand is present throughout the year. It is one of the business plans that can be started with low investment capital and a home-based commercial unit. A lot of entrepreneurs are stepping into candle business because they provide affordable capital investment as well as have a high-profit margin.

The small scale business of candle making will not require you to own any machinery. The raw materials that are used for making candles are easily available plus they are very cheap. So that’s why within minimal investment you can high amount of revenue through the Candle Making Business plan.

Raw Materials

As one would assume, the main component of the candle making process is wax, but there are also other ingredients that are used in candle making. The procedure is really easy and the raw materials required are very limited. You may refer to the following list of raw materials for candle making:

Wax is the main ingredient that is involved in the candle making process. It constitutes the most among all the parts. Wax contributes 60% in candle making. It is basically an organic compound that comes in its natural form. To name, the wax is of following types:

• Paraffin Wax- It is the white-colored wax that is produced from petroleum or oil shell.
• Beeswax- Beeswax is the natural wax that is collected as a by-product of honey bees.
• Carnauba Candles- Another name of Carnauba wax is brazil wax which is collected from Palm trees
• Bayberry Wax- Bayberry wax is the form that is derived from fruits.

2. Stearic Acid

Stearic Acid is basically saturated fatty acid which is used in the process of candle making. It contributes about 40% of the raw materials that are used for making candles. They are melted in high temperature then poured for carrying out the process.

Wicks are braided strands of cotton that helps in accommodating the lighting in candles.

4. Aroma and Colors

As we all know candles come in different aromas and colors that have various purposes. Different aromas are used in candle making such as lavender, strawberry, chocolate, cookies, vanilla, etc. Also, they come in different colors, pink, red, blue, yellow, orange, etc.

Molds are the ones that are responsible for giving candles the desired shape. The standard candle is a long cylindrical one, but now we see the variety of shapes in candles such as spiral ones, square, circular, floating candles that comes in the shape of a thick coin, etc.

Candle Making Machines

Like candles, the machines that make candles also have different types. Candle making machines are manual, semi-automatic and fully automatic. They vary on the basis of the amount of work that we have to put in the process.

1. Manual Candle Making Machines

Manual Machines are basically handy machines that need manpower to operate. This type of machine work by molding the raw materials in order to form a candle. The production rate of manual candle making machines is 300 to 1800 per hour.

2. Semi-Automatic Candle Making Machines

Semi-Automatic Candle Making Machines are more advanced than the former one, also it provides more efficient results. It needs less manpower as the major part is done by the machine itself. It is also faster and more accurate. It also provides instant cooling with the help of the water supply.

3. Fully Automatic Candle Making Machines

Fully Automatic Candle Making Machines are the most advanced ones and provides the finest results. These machines provide results very faster with a rate of 240 pieces per minute. As well as the water supply is there for providing instant cooling.

It also provides you with the option of making designer candles as it has various molds of different shapes and sizes.

Permissions and License

A Candle Making business plan could be a small scale plan as well as a large scale. The small scale business plan could be initiated from your home and for that, you will just need to obtain a trade license of India. To initiate the procedure of getting a Trade License , visit the official government website of India by clicking here .

In other cases, if you are planning to start the business on a large scale basis, you need to obtain the following licenses:

• Business Registration – For registering your business, you need to visit the Ministry of Corporate Affairs’ official website. Click on this link for visiting the online website.
• Trade License- Trade License is mandatory in both the cases, click here for visiting the official website.
• GST Registration – GST is the service tax of India and you need to register for it. Click on this link for visiting the official website.
• Trade Mark Registration – Trade Mark Registration is important to protect your brand name, click here to apply for Trade Mark Registration.

Potential Clients

Candle Making a business plan is one of the trending business plans in India right now. Its excessive demand has made this product based industry really popular. Now once your business is set up, you need to find potential clients. Your potential clients are the ones who are interested in your business and have a chance of being your customer. You can take your product to the following:

1. Boutiques

You can target boutiques for your potential clients as boutiques are mostly visited by women, and women are a big fan of some good candles. Therefore boutiques make a good platform for promoting your business.

2. Gifts and Craft Shops

Gifts and craft shops are also very good platforms where you can take your business. Candles are a great product that can be sold in these shops as candles make a very good gift option. In order to take your business to these shops, you need to have an extraordinary approach to designing.

3. Local Shops

Local shops are frequently visited by the customers and they are basically approached by all the necessities of the residents. So by selling your product to local shops, you will make your business more approachable to the customers.

4. Online Selling

Nowadays Online platforms play a great role in making any business successful. In today’s time, people are more available on the internet than in real life. That is why promoting your business on online platforms will make a winning idea.

You could create a website dedicated solely to your business where you can take orders, list your products, and deliver them too. Apart from this you could also take help from Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter and create business accounts for the promotion of your business.

Candle making business plan is undoubtedly a very good plan that holds a lot of potentials to become a great source of earning. This also requires very low capital investment and you can also run it as a side business.

Candle making business plan is great especially for housewives who are seeking opportunities to be financially independent. This does not require the presence of any professional skills. The above gives steps are the complete guide on how to start your own candle making a business plan.

If you have any queries you can always ask them in the comment section.

Sample Candle Making Business Plan Template

Do you need help starting a candle company? If YES, here is a sample candle-making business plan template.

Candle-making is big business. This is because people buy candle products for a variety of reasons. If you have considered becoming a participant in this industry, this candle-making business plan sample will be of immense benefit.

By using this sample, you get the best guidance possible on how to write a working plan for your candle business.

It strips away the non-essentials and goes straight to the point.

CANDLE PRODUCTION BUSINESS PLAN SAMPLE

Starting up any business would require an idea, if you have carefully decided on venturing into the candle-making business, you should understand to an extent what starting up a candle business entails.

Here is a sample business plan for starting a candle manufacturing business.

Research on the Business

Starting up a candle-making business requires a basic understanding of candles and candle-making. Firstly, you should decide what type of candles you will be making and the wax to be used.

When deciding the type of candle business to start , it is advisable to start with the basics. Taper candles, as well as container candles, are the easiest forms of candles, but you can also decide to work with other mold and pillar candles.

Wax is gotten from different sources and comes in different forms. The wax gotten from bees has a natural honey aroma and might not require artificial fragrance.

The composition of beeswax varies depending on the climatic condition, the geographic location, and the sort of flowers the bees associate with. Beeswax has been said to be the most expensive of wax types.

Paraffin wax is another product of refined crude oil. Paraffin wax is the most popularly used candle wax. When burnt, it produces flames which may cause reactions that include vomiting and nausea. Paraffin wax differs in price according to the extent of refining.

Animal fats, vegetable oil, synthetic hydrocarbons, and mineral oil are also sources of wax. Stearin, soy wax, and gels fall under this category.

Draw a Candle Making Business Plan

A business plan entails the opportunities, weaknesses, strengths, and goals of any business. Business plans should be kept short and easy to understand. You must understand the nature of your intending candle-making business to produce a proper plan.

Candles are in high demand in residential places as they’re used as decorations in homes, churches, and walkways. It should not be difficult picking out a suitable workplace.

Your plan should answer questions such as;

• Who are the consumers of your products?
• Source of your finance?
• What are the drawbacks of starting up your business? etc.

These and more are questions that your plan must answer.

Financing Your Candle Making Business

Do you have enough funds required to start up your candle-making business ? If not, you must seek financial support.

If you want to run a large-scale candle-making business and you don’t have the financial backup, securing a loan from a commercial bank, angel investors, friends or family members should be something you should consider.

If securing a bank loan doesn’t work out, you should consider the Small Business Administration (SBA). This organization grants loans to business operators who have been unable to secure a commercial bank loan.

Decide a Business Structure for Your Business

A very important part of starting up a business is deciding on a suitable business structure. Listed below are the four basic business structures you can decide on for your candle-making business.

• Sole Proprietorship and Partnership

Now, if you’ve decided to maintain full ownership and control of the business, Sole proprietorship should be a suitable option as you are personally responsible for the ups and downs of the company.

• Corporations and Limited Liability Company (LLC)

You may want to separate your personal drawbacks from the business inconveniences, it is advisable to work as a corporation as corporations separate business-related liabilities from personal liabilities.

Limited Liability Company (LLC) unlike the sole proprietorship doesn’t hold you responsible for the company’s debt and liabilities.

In structuring up a candle-making business as a corporation or a Limited Liability Company, some legal documents would be required.

Legalize your Business

Employ a lawyer who would assist and advise you on how to acquire the needed certificates, licenses, and permits in the case of a corporation and register your business name.

An article of incorporation is very important, it is a document that contains your candle business name, goals and purpose, structure, stock details, and other business information.

Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS and purchase an insurance policy as it is very important before launching.

Advertising Your Candle Making Business

This is very important if you want to break through in the candle-making business. you have to let people know that your business exists. Make your brand unique, pick a suitable logo to attract customers.

Create awareness of your product through online marketing, market your products in local stores and sell at local fairs. You can also place discounts on products when launching to attract customers.

CANDLE PRODUCTION BUSINESS PLAN EXAMPLE

Your candle business plan will be a vital requirement for getting access to loans, as well as registrations.

Another reason you need a good candle production business plan is to be able to implement growth-friendly strategies for your business.

Without further waste of time, let’s get into the details;

• Executive Summary

Candle Lights LLC is a candle-making business located in Albuquerque and producing top-quality products for the growing market. Our business is new and seeks to expand to cover the state of New Mexico and beyond.

As a business with a deep understanding of the market, we seek to satisfy our client’s needs for quality and affordability.

This will be achieved through the production of products that meet international standards. In the coming years, we seek to expand our business to cover new markets both nationally and internationally.

This expansion will be implemented through the purchase of more equipment, machinery, and an experienced workforce.

• Products and Services

People use candles for a host of reasons.

We are equal to the task as we produce assorted varieties of fragranced candles. These include widely available and popular fragrances as well as new ones which are constantly formulated by our R&D department.

A few include floating candles, birthday candles, utility candles, liturgical candles, tapers, votives, and outdoor candles.

In addition to these, we will also provide services such as training, formulation, and sale of candle fragrances as well as consultancy services.

• Vision Statement

At Candle Lights LLC, we seek to be among the foremost candle-making businesses. Our vision is to eventually become a major national player in candle manufacture. This will eventually pave the way for the international export of our products. We have our sights set on breaking into the major top 10 candle-making businesses in America within half a decade.

• Mission Statement

Our mission as a new candle-making business is to build a brand synonymous with quality. This will be achieved by ensuring our products pass a stringent quality control test. This is aimed at endearing us to our target market. While focusing on quality, we will ensure our products are well within the reach of everyone.

• SWOT Analysis

We recognize that to achieve our objective, identifying our strengths and weaknesses is necessary.

Given this, we have conducted a SWOT analysis to examine our strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats faced by our business. The results have been revealing and disclose the following;

There are lots of candle products in the market. These come in different fragrances, sizes, and colors. We are not only going to produce similar products but will go a step further in experimenting with new and unique products.

This will focus on new fragrances as well as health-impactful products.

To achieve these objectives, we have a team of dedicated workforce who help in running the different departments. Some of these include the quality control department, the research, and development department as well as the marketing department.

These are vital to the growth of our business and present us with an advantage.

Currently, there are major and well-known candle brands with immense control over different aspects of the business. These include distribution channels as well as marketing.

Also, these are international brands that are easily recognizable. We understand that achieving our objective is an uphill task yet very possible. Thankfully are workforce is sufficiently experienced to handle these challenges.

• Candle Business Opportunities

Our innovative drive is where opportunities about for our business. To stay relevant, we have identified that we will need to develop newer and better products to compete with the major players.

Our research and development department comprises some of the best minds in the industry. These experts have brought their several years of experience to bear on the job.

Threats abound in the form of competitors and competition for market share. These are situations we have identified and prepared for.

However, there are bigger threats such as economic meltdown which erodes the circulation of disposable income. The good thing is that the latter does not happen all the time.

• Market Trends

Scents govern the candle market. Sales are mostly driven by a variety of scents or fragrances. There have been a lot of investments in the development of new scents.

Also, methods of distribution have improved over the years. The internet has played a major part in this as orders are easily placed online from major distributors.

• Target Market

Candles are used by a vast majority of individuals.

These products are used on occasions, for lighting, to obtain a certain feeling, etc. Our target market is varied and includes households, churches, singles, and married, as well as other religious organizations.

• Sales Projection

There are a lot of factors that influence sales. Using current market realities, we have surveyed to obtain our projected sales within a 3-year period. The results have been positive and reveal the following;

• First Financial Year $450,000.00
• Second Financial Year $850,000.00
• Third Financial Year $1,400,000.00
• Competitive Advantage

We have put in a tremendous amount of effort to ensure that we establish a clear advantage over our competitors.

This comes by way of the experience of our workforce as well as our welfare package and friendly work environment.

These contribute to increase productivity and help us achieve our goals faster.

• Sales and Marketing Strategy

We have put in place a world-class marketing department consisting of highly qualified professionals. These have achieved tremendously and contributed to the growth of many businesses.

This department will embark on a series of marketing campaigns that will include the use of social media platforms, roadshows, an incentivized referral program, and paid adverts in dailies and electronic media.

This candle-making business plan sample enables you to put together a compelling and effective plan. You do not need to be confused or spend a fortune-seeking the help of experts.

The general procedure can be followed while providing the necessary information about your intending startup.

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The Silicon Valley investors who secretly bought up $800 million in Northern California real estate reveal unexpected plans for 'a city of yesterday'

• A mysterious company backed by Silicon Valley investors has been purchasing land near San Francisco.
• Until recently, the development plans behind their $800 million investment have been unknown.
• They're planning to build a retro city on the 52,000 acres of farmland they bought.

The Silicon Valley investors that got the government's attention by gobbling up $800 million worth of land outside San Francisco say the mystery city they plan on building is, well… kinda retro.

"We think that there's so much wisdom in how we built cities and towns over the last hundreds of thousands of years in some places. And so from the beginning, we've believed that you go back to go forward," Jan Sramek, founder and CEO of California Forever, told KQED on Monday.

The New York Times reported in August that Sramek — a 36-year-old former Goldman Sachs trader — and a group of some of tech's most recognizable names, including Marc Andreessen, Laurene Powell Jobs, Michael Moritz of Sequoia Capital, and LinkedIn cofounder Reid Hoffman together funded a new company called Flannery Associates, which purchased about 52,000 acres of farmland around Travis Air Force Base in rural Solano County, north east of the Bay Area.

"The plans that people put forward will be very inspired by those great old American neighborhoods that someone who was born 100 years ago will recognize," Sramek told KQED. "And so I think we are very different than many of the attempts to build new cities by people who've been wooed by the vision of some star architects to build the city of tomorrow. We want to build a city of yesterday."

Sramek said the "dominant" housing types in the new city should be row houses, which he called one of the "most underappreciated types of types of buildings."

"You can have small construction firms build them. They can be built much more cheaply. They can be single-family row houses where you have a yard," he said.

Critics, including Fairfield mayor Catherine Moy, say developing on some of the limited remaining agricultural land in California is "not a good idea," she told KQED.

"Here's my suggestion: these billionaires take their billions of dollars and go back down to Silicon Valley and build high-rise apartments there that are low income so that their employees can work and live in the same area," Insider previously reported Moy said.

A different style of smart city for Solano

Silicon Valley personalities from Bill Gates to Elon Musk have long held visions of their own "smart cities" meant to serve as tech-forward utopias for their residents.

Earlier this year, Musk purchased 3,500 acres of land outside of Austin, Texas, to build a town he intends to call "Snailbrook" for his company employees to live in.

Those who live near existing Boring Company and SpaceX developments in Bastrop Country, including Chap Ambrose, a computer programmer, have doubts about the sustainability and vision of such ever-expanding projects.

"I just have no faith that the leadership there values the environment and these shared resources," Ambrose told The Washington Post , adding that he wants Musk to "do better here and be a good neighbor."

California Forever did not immediately respond to a request for comment sent by Insider.

Azmi Haroun contributed to this report.

Watch: Silicon Valley heavyweights are trying to fix the lack of diversity in tech – here's how

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McCarthy rejects Senate spending bill while scrambling for a House plan that averts a shutdown

The U.S. House of Representatives passed bills to fund three federal government departments on Thursday night. A fourth vote failed. The bills do not stop the government from shutting down midnight Saturday. (Sept. 29)

FILE - House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., walks to the chamber for procedural votes to advance appropriations bills, at the Capitol in Washington, Tuesday night, Sept. 26, 2023. McCarthy is digging in on his refusal to take up Senate legislation designed to keep the federal government fully running beyond midnight Saturday, Sept. 30. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite, File)

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FILE - House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., joined by Rep. August Pfluger, R-Texas, right, and other GOP members, talks to reporters just after voting to advance appropriations bills on the House floor, at the Capitol in Washington, Tuesday night, Sept. 26, 2023. McCarthy is digging in on his refusal to take up Senate legislation designed to keep the federal government fully running beyond midnight Saturday, Sept. 30. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite, File)

WASHINGTON (AP) — A government shutdown appeared all but inevitable as House Speaker Kevin McCarthy dug in Thursday, vowing he will not take up Senate legislation designed to keep the federal government fully running despite House Republicans’ struggle to unite around an alternative.

Congress is at an impasse just days before a disruptive federal shutdown that would halt paychecks for many of the federal government’s roughly 2 million employees , as well as 2 million active-duty military troops and reservists, furlough many of those workers and curtail government services.

But the House and Senate are pursuing different paths to avert those consequences even though time is running out before government funding expires after midnight on Saturday.

“I still got time. I’ve got time to do other things,” McCarthy told reporters Thursday evening at the Capitol, adding, “At the end of the day, we’ll get it all done.”

The Senate is working toward passage of a bipartisan measure that would fund the government until Nov. 17 as longer-term negotiations continue, while also providing $6 billion for Ukraine and $6 billion for U.S. disaster relief.

The House, meanwhile, took up four of the dozen annual spending bills that fund federal agencies. Republicans were heartened as they passed three bills that would fund the Department of Defense, Department of Homeland Security and State Department, though the fourth bill to fund federal agriculture programs failed.

In one sign of deepening resistance to assisting Ukraine, more than half the House Republicans voted against providing Ukraine $300 million in military aid, though the money was approved on a bipartisan 311-117 vote.

The House’s movement on the appropriations legislation won’t keep the government from shutting down, but leadership hoped the progress would cajole enough Republicans to support a House-crafted continuing resolution that temporarily funds the government and boosts security at the U.S. border with Mexico.

It’s a long shot, but McCarthy predicted a deal.

Lawmakers, already weary from days of late-night negotiating, showed signs of strain at McCarthy’s closed-door meeting with Republicans Thursday morning. It was marked by a tense exchange between the speaker and Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Fla., according to those in the room.

Gaetz, who has taunted McCarthy for weeks with threats to oust him from his post, confronted the speaker about conservative online influencers being paid to post negative things about him. McCarthy shot back that he wouldn’t waste his time on something like that, Gaetz told reporters as he exited the meeting.

McCarthy’s allies left the meeting fuming about Gaetz’s tactics.

With his majority splintering, McCarthy is scrambling to come up with a plan for preventing a shutdown and win Republican support. The speaker told Republicans he would reveal a Republican stopgap plan, known as a continuing resolution or CR, on Friday, according to those in the room, while also trying to force Senate Democrats into giving some concessions.

But with time running out, many GOP lawmakers were either withholding support for a temporary measure until they had a chance to see it. Others are considering joining Democrats, without McCarthy’s support, to bring forward a bill that would prevent a shutdown.

With his ability to align his conference in doubt, McCarthy has little standing to negotiate with Senate Democrats. He has also attempted to draw President Joe Biden into negotiations, but the White House, so far, has shown no interest.

Biden sought to apply more pressure on McCarthy, urging him to compromise with Democrats even though that could threaten his job.

“I think that the speaker is making a choice between his speakership and American interests,” Biden said.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., said Congress and the White House had already worked out top-line spending levels for next year with an agreement this summer that allowed the government to continue borrowing to pay its bills. But McCarthy was deviating from that deal and courting a shutdown by catering to Republicans who say it didn’t do enough to cut spending, he said.

“By focusing on the views of the radical few instead of the many, Speaker McCarthy has made a shutdown far more likely,” Schumer said.

McCarthy insisted in a CNBC interview that the House will have its say. “Will I accept and surrender to what the Senate decides? The answer is no, we’re our own body.”

But later at the Capitol, he openly complained about the difficulty he is having herding Republican lawmakers.

“Members say they only want to vote for individual bills, but they hold me up all summer and won’t let me bring individual bills up. Then they say they won’t vote for a stopgap measure that keeps government open,” McCarthy told reporters.

“So I don’t know, where do you go in that scenario?”

The speaker also hinted he has a backup plan but gave no indication he was ready to work with Democrats to pass something in the House.

Meanwhile, the White House, as well as the Department of Homeland Security, notified staff on Thursday to prepare for a shutdown, according to emails obtained by The Associated Press. Employees who are furloughed would have four hours on Monday to prepare their offices for the shutdown.

The White House plans to keep on all commissioned officers. That includes chief of staff Jeff Zients, press secretary Karine Jean Pierre, national security adviser Jake Sullivan and other senior-level personnel, by declaring them “excepted” during a shutdown, according to the White House email.

Military troops and federal workers, including law enforcement officers, air traffic controllers and Transportation Security Administration officers, will also report to work because they are essential to protecting life and property. They would miss paychecks if the shutdown lasts beyond Oct. 13, the next scheduled payday, though they are slated to receive backpay once any shutdown ends.

Social Security payments for seniors, Medicare and Medicaid payments to health care providers, and disability payments to veterans will continue, as much of the government will continue to function. But there will be critical services that do stop. For example, the U.S. Treasury says that, with two-thirds of IRS employees potentially furloughed, taxpayer phone calls to the agency will go unanswered and 363 Taxpayer Assistance Centers across the country will close.

Many Republicans have voiced fears they would be blamed for a shutdown — including in the Senate, where many GOP members are aligned with Democrats on a temporary bill.

Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell said he agrees with many of the goals of the House Republicans, but he warned a shutdown will not achieve any of them.

“Instead of producing any meaningful policy outcomes, it would actually take the important progress being made on a number of key issues and drag it backward,” McConnell said.

Nevertheless, Senate Republicans huddled for much of the day to cobble together a plan that could win support to boost funding for border security. McCarthy’s House allies were also hoping the threat of a shutdown could help conservatives with their push to limit federal spending and combat illegal immigration at the U.S-Mexico border.

“Anytime you have a stopgap situation like this, you have an opportunity to leverage,” said Rep. Garret Graves, R-La. “This is another opportunity. America does not want an open Southern border. The polls are crystal clear. It’s having a profound impact on us.”

Associated Press writers Seung Min Kim and Fatima Hussein contributed reporting.

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