Start a Candle Business That People Can’t Stop Talking About

The candle business idea is booming, with global revenue projected to reach $10 billion by 2032. If you're seeking a low-cost startup opportunity with high profit potential, this article by NextSky will guide you through unique ideas to build a standout candle brand in 2025.

Why start a candle business?

A candle business is an attractive startup option due to its low cost, ease of learning, and high profitability. Candles are a familiar decorative item in homes, while creating relaxing atmospheres in spas, restaurants, or hotels. According to Expert Market Research, the global candle market is expected to hit $10 billion by 2032, reflecting steadily rising demand. This allows you to sell candles flexibly through various channels, from online platforms to craft fairs and local stores. Moreover, their high customizability lets you create products with a personal touch.

Top candle business ideas for 2025

1. Eco-friendly vegan candles

As green living gains popularity, candles made from plant-based waxes like soy, coconut, or beeswax are becoming ideal choices due to their vegan and eco-friendly nature. Brooklyn Candle Studio, for instance, pioneered the use of 100% soy wax and recyclable packaging, fully embracing sustainability and resonating with eco-conscious consumers worldwide.

Market insights:

• Average annual revenue: $50,000–$200,000 for small to medium-scale operations, based on sustainable candle market research.
• Profit margin: 30–50%.
• Startup costs: $5,000–$50,000, covering materials, packaging, and basic marketing.
• Time to revenue: 3–6 months, driven by the strong green consumer trend.
• Annual market growth: 6.5%.
• Ideal for: Environmental enthusiasts, entrepreneurs building green brands, and creators passionate about handmade products.

How to start:

• Develop a line of candles using soy wax and natural essential oils, ensuring eco-friendly packaging.
• Integrate with e-commerce platforms like Shopify to reach global customers.
• Offer flexible pricing based on order size (retail or wholesale).
• Provide free trial versions or small samples to showcase quality.

2. Luxury candle designs

Premium candles are reshaping the market with exquisite designs, unique scents like oud or amber, and inspiring brand stories. Seen as symbols of luxury, they attract customers willing to spend $70–$200 for an exceptional olfactory experience. Hotel Lobby Candle exemplifies this, delivering a 5-star hotel ambiance and transporting users from Dubai to Paris through scent.

Market insights:

• Average annual revenue: $150,000–$500,000.
• Profit margin: 25–45%, due to high-end packaging and materials.
• Startup costs: $20,000–$100,000.
• Time to revenue: 6–12 months.
• Annual market growth: 5.8%.
• Ideal for: Creative designers, entrepreneurs targeting high-end customers, and those passionate about storytelling through branding.

How to start:

• Develop candles with premium packaging and exclusive, complex scents.
• Use Shopify to create a professional online store with templates like Glozin from NextSky.
• Offer tiered pricing for individual or high-end boutique customers.

3. Aromatherapy candles for mental wellness

In today's fast-paced world, candles infused with essential oils like lavender, eucalyptus, or chamomile serve as a balm for the soul, promoting relaxation and focus. Recognizing the demand for mental wellness, P.F. Candle Co. built its reputation with soothing scents like "Teakwood & Tobacco," tied to a mindful, slow-living aesthetic.

Market insights:

• Average annual revenue: $80,000–$300,000.
• Profit margin: 35–50%.
• Startup costs: $10,000–$60,000.
• Time to revenue: 4–8 months.
• Annual market growth: 7.2%.
• Ideal for: Wellness enthusiasts, therapists, and entrepreneurs combining products with experiences.

How to start:

• Create candles with therapeutic essential oils, paired with meditation or wellness guides.
• Use Shopify to sell candle subscription boxes.
• Offer flexible pricing based on delivery frequency (monthly or quarterly).
• Provide free samples to highlight relaxation benefits.

Read more: How to Build Profitable Nail Business Ideas

4. Decorative and artistic candles

Candles today are more than light sources, they're works of art with unique shapes, refined colors, or bold dried flower embellishments. These creations breathe life into living spaces and appeal to beauty lovers. French brand Diptyque, for example, turned its "Baies" candle into a luxury icon, coveted for its exquisite glass design.

Market insights:

• Average annual revenue: $70,000–$250,000.
• Profit margin: 30–45%.
• Startup costs: $15,000–$80,000.
• Time to revenue: 5–10 months.
• Annual market growth: 5.5%.
• Ideal for: Artists, interior designers, and entrepreneurs passionate about aesthetic creation.

How to start:

• Develop candles with unique designs, like geometric shapes or dried flower accents.
• Use Shopify to showcase products with high-quality images.
• Offer pricing based on limited editions or product sizes.
• Provide samples to highlight aesthetic value.

See more: Start Your Own Bath Bomb Business and Make Profits

5. Storytelling candles

Candles evoking memories—from summer campfires to childhood baked goods—tap into consumers' deep emotions. These candles unlock nostalgia and personal connections. Homesick Candles, for instance, captures homesickness with scents like "New York City" or "Southern California," offering comfort to those far from home.

Market insights:

• Average annual revenue: $90,000–$350,000.
• Profit margin: 30–50%.
• Startup costs: $10,000–$70,000.
• Time to revenue: 4–9 months.
• Annual market growth: 6.8%.
• Ideal for: Storytellers, entrepreneurs targeting emotional customers, and brands aiming for cultural impact.

How to start:

• Create candles tied to memories or local scents.
• Use Shopify to tell brand stories through product descriptions and blogs.
• Offer flexible pricing for collections or sizes.
• Provide samples to let customers experience the story through scent.

6. Candle workshops and DIY kits

In an era valuing personal experiences, candle businesses combining workshops and DIY kits are trending, offering customers creative joy and connection. Frostbeard Studio, for example, attracts craft enthusiasts with unique DIY kits and an inspiring "Candle of the Month" club.

Market insights:

• Average annual revenue: $60,000–$200,000.
• Profit margin: 35–55%.
• Startup costs: $8,000–$50,000.
• Time to revenue: 3–7 months.
• Annual market growth: 7%.
• Ideal for: Educators, artisans, and entrepreneurs creating interactive experiences.

How to start:

• Develop DIY candle kits with pre-measured materials and detailed guides.
• Use Shopify to sell kits and host online workshops.
• Offer pricing based on kit size or workshop frequency.
• Provide free samples or introductory sessions to attract customers.

Read more: TOP 25 Profitable Wellness Business Ideas for Small Startups

7. Candle dropshipping

Dropshipping candles offers a golden opportunity for entrepreneurs to start without investing in production or inventory. Focus on branding while suppliers handle the rest. Printify, for instance, has empowered hundreds of entrepreneurs to create unique candles and sell effortlessly through dropshipping.

Market insights:

• Average annual revenue: $40,000–$150,000.
• Profit margin: 20–40%.
• Startup costs: $2,000–$30,000.
• Time to revenue: 2–6 months.
• Annual market growth: 8%.
• Ideal for: Digital marketers, entrepreneurs seeking quick startups, and those favoring flexible business models.

How to start:

• Create a unique candle catalog via platforms like Printify.
• Use Shopify to build a professional dropshipping store.
• Offer flexible pricing based on quantity or custom designs.
• Provide samples or high-quality images for customer evaluation.

How to start a candle business

Starting a candle business involves igniting passion, requiring clear strategies and the right tools. This guide will help you build a strong brand step by step.

Step 1: Master candle-making

According to Armatage Candle Company, before launching, master candle-making with the "84-candle rule"—craft 84 candles to refine your process, test scents, and gather feedback. Key steps include:

• Choose wax: Soy wax is eco-friendly with long burn times, while paraffin is cheaper but less sustainable. Coconut or beeswax suits premium markets for superior quality and aesthetics.
• Select scents: Experiment with floral, woody, citrus, or spicy notes to create a signature. The National Candle Association notes scent is the top factor in purchase decisions.
• Prepare materials: Use a double boiler, thermometer, wicks, jars, and essential oils. Source wholesale from trusted suppliers like Bulk Apothecary or California Candle Supply to optimize costs and quality.

Step 2: Research the market

To create candles that resonate, understand your audience. Targeting the right segment ensures your products stand out and meet demand.

• Premium segment ($80–$200): Targets experience-driven customers valuing sophistication and willing to pay for luxury brands.
• Mid-range segment ($30–$80): Suits consumers seeking unique scents, eye-catching designs, and versatile value.
• Budget segment ($10–$40): Meets basic needs with affordable options like vanilla, lavender, or ocean breeze scents.

Use tools like Google Trends, Semrush, or Ubersuggest to find high-demand, low-competition keywords like "trending candle scents" or "luxury candle designs 2024." Analyze products on Etsy, Amazon, or local markets to identify gaps, such as unique handmade, eco-friendly, or culturally inspired candles.

Step 3: Build your brand

Successful branding goes beyond sales, it creates connections and value. Answer these key questions:

• What drives you to make candles? Passion for relaxation, inspiration, or promoting a healthy lifestyle?
• Who do you serve? Millennials who love aesthetics, wellness seekers, or high-end clients craving sophistication?
• What makes your candles unique? Vegan formulas, sustainable materials, or scents evoking unforgettable memories?

Step 4: Create a business plan

A business plan is your roadmap to turn passion into reality. Outline your journey from big dreams to small, actionable steps.

• Executive summary: Note why you started and the value your brand aims to deliver.
• Market analysis: Define your ideal customer, competitors, and differentiation opportunities.
• Product line: List offerings, from natural soy candles to relaxing aromatherapy or premium decorative candles.
• Marketing plan: Detail outreach via social media, e-commerce websites, or local events and fairs.
• Financials: Budget $100–$1,000 for startup costs and set profit goals for effective growth.
• Resources: Download free business plan templates from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).

Step 5: Legalize your business

A sustainable business operates within legal boundaries, transitioning from an idea to a professional, trustworthy enterprise.

• Choose a structure: A sole proprietorship is simple for beginners, but an LLC protects personal assets.
• Get a free EIN: An IRS Employer Identification Number enables business banking and transparent financial operations.
• Permits and sales tax: Check local requirements—Shopify's tools can streamline compliance.
• Insurance: General liability insurance protects against accidents like fires during production or delivery.
• Safety tip: Follow ASTM safety standards to ensure your candles are safe and build customer trust.

Step 6: Calculate costs and price strategically

A beautiful candle stems from smart calculations. Understanding costs ensures attractive pricing while securing profits.

• Production costs: $100–$200 covers basic materials like wax, wicks, oils, and jars for your first creations.
• Operating costs: Websites, ads, and shipping are small but critical for brand growth.
• Equipment: A double boiler, thermometer, and pouring pitcher are key for confident home production. Candles typically retail from $30–$80, with premium lines exceeding $100. Use Shopify's profit calculator to track financial performance per product.
• Pro tip: Buy bulk materials from suppliers like Bittercreek Candle Supply to cut costs and ensure consistent quality for customer retention.

Step 7: Craft your candles

Making soy wax candles is a relaxing, creative process. Follow these steps at home:

• Melt wax: Use a double boiler to melt soy wax at 180°F (82°C), ensuring even melting without scorching.
• Add scent: At 150°F (65°C), add essential oils at 1 oz (30ml) per pound (450g) of wax, locking in the aroma for a relaxing burn.
• Pour wax: Pour into jars at 150–170°F (65–77°C), securing the wick with a centering tool for an even, beautiful burn.
• Cure candles: Let paraffin candles rest for 24–48 hours or soy candles for 3–7 days to deepen scent and achieve a smooth finish.
• Tip: Experiment with unique scents like "fresh sea mist" or "spiced tea" to create a distinctive collection.

Step 8: Set up a professional Shopify store

Shopify is the perfect platform for a professional yet straightforward online candle store. With NextSky templates like Glozin or Agile, you can design a stunning shop in hours without coding.

• Easy, branded design: Drag-and-drop tools create a personalized storefront.
• Automation: Manage inventory and orders seamlessly to focus on creativity.
• Flexible payments: Offer credit cards, digital wallets, or buy-now-pay-later options.
• SEO and mobile-friendly: NextSky templates optimize load speed and display across devices, which is key to retaining customers.

Steps to implement:

• Create a Shopify account and choose a template matching your candle style.
• Upload polished product photos, blending studio shots with lifestyle images.
• Write engaging descriptions highlighting scent, size, burn time, and usage suggestions.
• Set up shipping, payment gateways, and clear return policies.

Step 9: Develop a marketing strategy

Candles spark emotions, evoking memories and poetic spaces. Your marketing should ignite feelings and connect deeply with customers. Effective channels include:

• Social media: Instagram and Pinterest are ideal for showcasing candles. Share videos of wax pouring, behind-the-scenes, or customers relaxing by candlelight.
• Email marketing: Use Shopify Forms to collect emails and send newsletters with tips like choosing candles for moods or exclusive seasonal offers.
• Blogging: Write posts like "Top 5 relaxing candle scents for 2025" or "How to make candles safely at home" to boost Google rankings and establish expertise.
• Craft fairs: Bring products to artisan markets, farmers' markets, or pop-up shops. Shopify POS syncs sales with your online store.
• Influencer collaborations: Use Shopify Collabs to partner with influencers and reach the right audience.
• Pro tip: Capitalize on the holiday season, as 35% of candle sales come during Christmas. Plan campaigns early with attractive gift bundles for explosive sales.

Candle business tips for better sales

Invest in stunning product photos

Research shows compelling images drive instant purchase decisions. Ensure photos are sharp, showcasing shapes, packaging, and candles in real-life settings to help customers visualize usage.

Maximize existing customers

Instead of focusing solely on new customers, boost revenue from current ones by:

• Suggest adding compact travel candles for convenience.
• Launching limited-edition seasonal scents for exclusivity.
• Offering monthly subscription models like Frostbeard Studio's "Candle of the Month" for fresh, surprising scents.

Expand with signature scents

Grow your line with products like soaps, shampoos, or perfumes, sharing your brand's signature scents. Like Tofino Soap Company, bundle them into personal care kits to engage customers with familiar aromas.

Leverage peak sales seasons

The National Candle Association notes Christmas accounts for 35% of candle sales, with 76% of consumers viewing candles as meaningful gifts. Launch polished holiday campaigns with elegant gift sets, attractive deals, and targeted ads.

Tell stories with short social media videos

Social media is fertile ground for brand growth. Share authentic, inspiring videos like:

• Behind the scenes of meticulous candle crafting.
• Your emotional entrepreneurial journey.
• Cozy evenings by candlelight.
• Comparisons of scents and candle types.
• Stories of overcoming challenges in the craft. Kristen Pumphrey of P.F. Candle Co. said, "We don't just show you a candle—we show how it makes your space vibrant and emotional."

Starting a candle business in 2025 is a golden opportunity to blend creativity with profit. With NextSky's insights, you can build a professional, standout store today.