Starting a candle-making business can be deeply rewarding — creatively, emotionally, and financially. If you're passionate about fragrance, design, and craft, turning your hobby into a profitable small-scale business is totally achievable.
As founders of Karessa Candles, we’ve learned that the key is to start simple, stay consistent, and build with intention.
Here’s a complete beginner’s guide to help you get started.
What are the first steps to start a candle business?
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Learn the basics of candle-making – Experiment with small batches using soy wax, fragrance oils, cotton wicks, and jars.
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Understand your niche – Are you creating aromatherapy candles, gift hampers like these, decorative jars, or religious offerings?
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Test your scents and blends – Choose 3–5 signature aromas (like lavender, vanilla, oud, or rose).
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Decide on branding – Your name, logo, style, and story must reflect your personality and vision.
What materials and tools are required?
To begin your small-scale setup, you’ll need:
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Soy wax or beeswax
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Fragrance oils and essential oils
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Wicks (cotton or wood)
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Heat-safe containers or jar molds
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Double boiler or wax melter
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Thermometer, pouring jug, spatula
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Labels, stickers, and packaging
You can source small quantities first and upgrade once your orders increase.
How much capital is needed to start?
You can start with ₹5,000–₹15,000 INR, depending on how many candles you make in your first batch. Start with:
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10–20 units in 2–3 fragrance types
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Basic tools (reusable)
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DIY labels and eco-friendly packaging
At Karessa, we started with just a few jars and grew through word-of-mouth, passion, and product quality.
How do I price my candles?
Use this basic formula:
(Cost of materials + labor + packaging + profit margin) = Selling Price
Example: If 1 candle costs ₹100 to make, add ₹50 profit = Sell at ₹150.
As your brand grows, and you offer premium products like luxury scented jars, your pricing can go higher (₹400–₹1000+).
Where can I sell my handmade candles?
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Instagram, WhatsApp, Facebook Marketplace
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Flea markets and exhibitions
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Gift stores and concept boutiques
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Create your own online store like KaressaCandles.com
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Sell through eCommerce platforms like Etsy, Amazon India, or Meesho
Make sure your product images are bright, clean, and styled with intention.
How important is packaging and branding?
Very important. Beautiful packaging and storytelling help customers connect emotionally with your candles. Consider:
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Minimal labels and glass jars
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Natural or recyclable boxes
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Brand story card inside each hamper
At Karessa, our gift hamper collections are often purchased because they “feel like a warm hug in a box.” That’s the power of branding.
What legal or business steps should I take?
Start small, but plan ahead. Eventually, you may want to:
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Register your business name
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Apply for a GST number
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Open a business bank account
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Create an invoice format and track expenses
Even at a small scale, professionalism builds trust.
Tips to grow your candle brand?
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Be consistent on social media
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Ask happy customers for reviews and referrals
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Share behind-the-scenes stories
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Offer combo packs, seasonal hampers, or custom messages
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Join online communities of candle makers and entrepreneurs
If you’re inspired by Karessa’s journey, follow a similar path by staying authentic and product-focused.
Final thoughts: Start with heart
You don’t need a factory or a huge budget to build a beautiful brand. Just start — with warmth, care, and creativity. Every candle you pour is a story waiting to be lit.
To see how we began, explore Karessa Candles' collections — and imagine the version you’ll create for your dream candle brand.
