Business ideas
15 min read

10+ Best & Profitable Candle Business Ideas in 2023

Have you ever been entranced by the warm flickering glow of a candle on a cold winter's night? Or were you ever engulfed in the charming aroma of a lavender-scented candle that relaxed your soul? Candles have been an integral part of human culture for centuries, with their mesmerizing appeal and stunning designs. Beyond their aesthetic value, candles today have become a valuable commodity, both artistically and commercially. In this article, we'll delve into the world of candle-making and unveil more than ten creative, demanding, and profitable candle business ideas. So let's light the wick and illuminate the way to your entrepreneurial journey!

Written by:
Nick
Updated on:
March 5, 2023
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Table of Contents:

Our List of 10+ Best Candle Business Ideas:

1. Customized candle production.

Customized candle production is a unique and niche business that involves making candles to order for customers. Instead of buying pre-made candles, customers can choose the scent, color, size, and shape of their candle to create a personalized product. It's a great business idea for those who are passionate about candles and want to tap into the growing demand for customized and handcrafted products.

Here are some reasons why this business idea could be a success:

  • Unique product offering: Customized candles are not as common as regular candles in retail stores, making them a rare and sought-after product that would stand out in the market.
  • Personalized customer experience: Customers can create their own unique scent and design, creating a memorable and personalized experience that they'll want to share with friends and family.
  • Low startup costs: Starting a customized candle business can be done on a small scale with low initial costs. All that's needed is a small workshop or dedicated space to create the candles, along with essential supplies like wax, wicks, scents, and packaging.
  • Flexible business model: Customized candle production could be run as a part-time or full-time business, depending on the entrepreneur's availability and goals.
  • Scalability: As the business grows, it's easy to scale up production by hiring staff, adding more equipment, or outsourcing manufacturing, making it possible to meet the increasing demands for customized candles.

2. Wholesale candle distribution.

If you're looking for a new business idea, have you considered wholesale candle distribution? This can be a profitable niche market with a high demand for candles everywhere from gift shops to home decor stores. Here's why:

  • People love candles, and they make for great gifts or personal use
  • Candles have a variety of uses, from creating ambiance to repelling insects
  • There are many types of candles available, from scented to unscented, decorative to basic
  • With wholesale distribution, you can purchase candles in bulk at a discounted rate
  • You can then sell these candles to retailers or directly to consumers at a markup, making a profit
  • Wholesale candle distribution can be a low-overhead business, as you won't need to pay for the production or storage of candles

Overall, wholesale candle distribution can be a great business idea for those who are passionate about candles and interested in the world of retail. With the right marketing strategies and connections, you could grow a successful business in this niche market.

3. Beeswax candle crafting.

Have you ever been captivated by the warm glow of a wax candle as it illuminates a room with a flickering light? Candles not only provide a source of light, but they also hold the potential to create a cozy atmosphere, evoke emotion, and even offer health benefits.

  • Beeswax candles, in particular, are becoming increasingly popular as they are natural and clean-burning, free from toxins and pollutants that can be present in synthetic waxes.
  • Beeswax is also a renewable resource, making it an eco-friendly choice for those who strive to live sustainably.
  • Crafting beeswax candles can be a fulfilling and rewarding hobby, as it allows for creativity and personalization with different scents, colors, and shapes.
  • Moreover, beeswax candle crafting has the potential to be turned into a profitable business venture. Here are a few reasons why:
  • Increasing demand for natural and eco-friendly products: As consumers become more conscious about reducing their carbon footprint and supporting sustainable living, products like beeswax candles are gaining popularity.
  • Affordable startup costs: Compared to other businesses, beeswax candle making requires relatively low startup costs as the primary material, beeswax, is readily available and affordable.
  • A high-profit margin: As a handmade product, beeswax candles can be sold at a premium price point due to the uniqueness and quality of the product.
  • A scalable business model: A beeswax candle business can start small and be scaled up as demand increases. It is also possible to expand into other product lines such as diffusers, soaps, and beauty products, utilizing beeswax as a primary ingredient.

If you're looking to start a business that aligns with your values of sustainability and creativity, beeswax candle crafting may be the perfect fit.

4. Scented candle making.

Scented candle making involves creating candles that emit a pleasant fragrance when lit. The process involves adding essential oils, fragrance oils, or natural extracts to melted wax and pouring the mixture into a container with a wick. The result is a beautiful candle that not only illuminates a room but also envelops it in a delightful scent.

  • Scented candle making is a popular hobby among creative individuals who enjoy using their imagination to craft unique wax creations.
  • It is also a great business idea due to its high demand and potential for profitability.
  • The global scented candle market is worth over $8 billion and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.5% from 2021 to 2028.
  • Customization is key when it comes to making scented candles, which allows for a wide variety of fragrances, colors, shapes, and sizes to suit any customer's taste.
  • Online marketplaces such as Etsy and social media platforms allow for easy promotion and sales.
  • Starting a scented candle business can be done from home with a small initial investment in equipment and materials, making it a low-risk investment.
  • Another perk of starting a scented candle business is the ability to work at your own pace, making it ideal for those who need a flexible work schedule or want to balance work with other commitments.

5. Candle making classes.

If you are looking for a unique and creative business idea, you might want to consider starting a candle making class. Candle making classes are becoming increasingly popular and for good reason. Not only is candle making a fun and therapeutic craft, but it also has great potential for profitability.

  • Candle making is a low-cost hobby to start, requiring minimal equipment and supplies.
  • Candles are always in demand, making it a profitable industry to enter.
  • Candle making classes offer a unique and fun experience for individuals or groups looking for a new activity to try.
  • Candle making classes can be customized to cater to various skill levels and interests, making it an ideal business for creative individuals looking to share their expertise.
  • Candle making classes also have the potential to generate additional revenue through the sale of candles made during the class.

Overall, a candle making class business is a great opportunity for anyone looking to turn their passion for candles into a profitable venture. With careful marketing and an attention to detail in class offerings, you can create a successful and enjoyable experience for your clients.

6. Candle subscription services.

Have you ever heard of a Candle subscription service? Imagine receiving a new set of candles each month delivered right to your doorstep! With the growing popularity of candle enthusiasts and the convenience of subscription services, this business idea could be a game changer. But what exactly is a Candle subscription service and why does it make a good business idea?

  • A Candle subscription service is a service that will send a new set of candles to a subscriber every month.
  • These candles could be themed for different holidays or seasons, scented or unscented, big or small.
  • This type of subscription service is becoming more and more popular due to its convenience and cost-efficiency.
  • People love the idea of having new candles each month to light up their spaces and set different moods.
  • Candles are also great for gifts or events, making this service a great option for both personal and business needs.

Running a Candle subscription service could be a profitable business idea due to its growing popularity and flexibility. It can be tailored to fit different niches and preferences, and the subscription-based model provides a consistent revenue stream. So, whether you're a candle enthusiast yourself or simply looking for a new business idea, consider starting a Candle subscription service and light up people's lives!

7. Candle gift baskets.

Candle gift baskets are a unique and thoughtful present for anyone who appreciates the beauty and warmth of candles. These gift baskets can include a selection of different scented candles, candle holders, matches, and other candle-related items. They are customizable and versatile, making them a great gift for any occasion.

  • What makes candle gift baskets a good business idea?
  • Candles are a popular and timeless gift item that people love to give and receive.
  • Candle gift baskets offer a personalized touch, allowing customers to create a unique gift tailored to the recipient.
  • The versatility of candle gift baskets means that they can be marketed for a variety of occasions, from birthdays to weddings to holidays.
  • Candles are a relatively affordable luxury item, making them an attractive gift option in any economic climate.
  • Candle gift baskets appeal to a wide demographic of customers, from young adults to the elderly.
  • How can you market candle gift baskets?
  • Create a visually appealing website showcasing different gift basket options and customization features.
  • Partner with local gift shops and boutiques to sell your products in-store.
  • Offer discounts for bulk purchases or repeat customers.
  • Promote your candles on social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook.
  • Create gift basket options for specific occasions like weddings, baby showers, or holidays.

8. Fragrance oils for candle making.

Have you ever walked into a home that smelled deliciously divine, only to discover it was the scent of a candle? That's the magic of fragrance oils.

But, what exactly are fragrance oils for candle making? In a nutshell, fragrance oils are concentrated scents that are added to melted wax to make candles. They come in a variety of scents, from floral to herbal to fruity, and even more complex blends.

If you're wondering why fragrance oils for candle making would make a good business idea, here are some reasons:

  • High demand: Candles are a staple household item that are used for relaxation, ambiance, and scent. There will always be a demand for quality candles.
  • Low start-up costs: Starting a candle making business with fragrance oils doesn't require a lot of money upfront.
  • Small space required: You can create candles in a small space like a kitchen or garage, making it an ideal home-based business.
  • Customizable options: With the variety of fragrance oils available, you can create unique scents tailored to your customers' preferences and niches.
  • Recurring business: Candles need to be replaced, which means recurring business for you.
  • Easy to market: Scent is a powerful sense that can trigger emotions and memories. Fragrance oils can be marketed to evoke certain feelings or to bring back memories.

In summary, fragrance oils for candle making offer a low-cost, customizable, and recurring business opportunity with a high demand for quality candles. Ready to start your candle-making business? Stock up on some fragrance oils and begin creating today!

9. Soy candle production.

Are you interested in starting a unique and eco-friendly business? Look no further than soy candle production! Soy candles have surged in popularity over recent years due to their many benefits over traditional paraffin candles.

  • Sustainable: Soy wax is made from soybeans, a renewable resource, making it a sustainable and eco-friendly option.
  • Clean-burning: Soy wax burns cleaner with little to no soot, reducing indoor air pollution and improving air quality.
  • Longer-lasting: Soy candles burn longer than paraffin candles, meaning customers will need to replace them less frequently.
  • Customizable: Soy wax easily blends with essential oils and fragrances, offering endless possibilities for customization and personalization.
  • In-demand: As the demand for eco-friendly and sustainable products continues to grow, so does the demand for soy candles.

Starting a soy candle production business does require some initial investment in materials and equipment, but once set up, it can be a low-cost business to maintain. The process of making soy candles is relatively simple and can even be done from home, making it a great option for entrepreneurs with limited space.

Marketing your soy candle business can be done through various channels, including farmers markets, online marketplaces, and your own e-commerce website. By offering unique scents and engaging with your customers, you can build a loyal following for your business.

Overall, soy candle production is a great business idea for those looking to start an eco-friendly and sustainable business that offers customization and potential for growth. So why not give it a try?

10. Specialty candle creations.

Specialty candle creations are unique and personalized candles that are crafted with specific themes, designs, and scents. These candles can serve various purposes, including aromatherapy, home decoration, and relaxation.

  • There are multiple benefits of owning a specialty candle creations business:
  • High Demand: Candles have always been popular, and with more people staying at home, the demand for candles has grown significantly.
  • Low Start-up costs: Starting a specialty candle creation business can be relatively inexpensive. This makes it easier for entrepreneurs to start a business.
  • Unlimited Creativity: Specialty candle creations allow entrepreneurs to showcase their creativity by customizing each candle to reflect a specific theme, design, or scent. This will make each candle unique, offering customers more variety and a customized experience.
  • High Profit Margins: Since candles are relatively cheap to produce, they can offer high-profit margins for entrepreneurs, making it a lucrative business idea.
  • Good Repeat Business: Once customers have experienced the quality and unique nature of specialty candles, they are more likely to return and purchase more candles for themselves or as gifts.
  • Starting a Specialty Candle Creation Business:
  • Research: Before starting a specialty candle creation business, it is important to research the market, competitors, and target audience to understand what customers want and how to differentiate your business from your competitors.
  • Supplies: Starting a candle business requires some essential supplies, including waxes, fragrance oils, colorants, wicks, and containers. It is recommended to buy in bulk to reduce costs and maximize profits.
  • Marketing: Promoting the business through word of mouth, social media, local fairs, pop-up shops, and e-commerce platforms can attract and retain customers.
  • Costing and Pricing: Setting competitive and attractive prices is crucial to attract and retain customers. Generally, candles are priced based on the cost of production, overhead costs, and profit margins. Testing different pricing strategies can help identify the most profitable pricing models for your business.
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Successful Examples of Candle Businesses:

Candle businesses have become increasingly popular in recent years offering a variety of innovative and beautiful scents, shapes, and sizes. Here are some examples of successful companies in the candle business industry:

  • Bath & Body Works
  • Paddywax
  • Pier 1
  • Yankee Candle Company
  • Bolsius International B.V.
  • D.I.D. Europe Ltd.
  • Beaux Arts Group Ltd.
  • RedEnvelope Inc.
  • Cire Trudon
  • Illume Candles
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Related Business Ideas

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Nick

Founder and CEO

I'm Nick, co-founder of newfoundr.com, dedicated to helping aspiring entrepreneurs succeed. In 2020, I left my job to build media websites and share my knowledge through newfoundr. Join me on my mission to make entrepreneurial success easier.