My Candle Business Journey (Roadmap, Lessons, and Story)

[@BlackTieBarn]

The first 1,000 people to use the link will get a 1 month free trial of Skillshare: skl.sh/blacktiebarn09221

[@prophetessoftroy]

Wade, I have to be honest. I first discovered your channel like I’m sure a lot of people do, looking for more information about the candle business and how to get started. I have stayed because your information is excellent and you don’t sugarcoat the hard parts. More, though, it’s your candor, generosity with your knowledge and your time, and your gentle honesty shine through in every video you release. You are so appreciated and I hope you know that. …the dad jokes don’t hurt, either 😉

[@BlackTieBarn]

Haha. Thanks. I appreciate the kind feedback. Means a lot. Glad you are enjoying the channel

[@rossinava837]

This story is spot on! I started 22 yrs ago when there were NO resources! Some of the long time vendors available now were barely in business for about a yr or so and they were learning to help us. Candlemaking is still a science that's fun to learn but still very challenging but with so many awesome veteran candlemakers like Black Tie and a few others...the newer candle makers have a ton of great mentors. The key to successful candle making is to keep learning, researching and testing. Even after 22 yrs of candlemaking myself, I sooo enjoy love watching and collaborating with others in the candle making communities. Also there is no competition in candle making .. even with so many out there. Candles are 4-5 billion $ industry that no one company can fulfill those needs. Happy Candlemaking!

[@BlackTieBarn]

💯 agree with this. Thanks rossi for your feedback. Glad you enjoyed the video as well :)

[@bkb10530]

Same here-Over 20 years ago; never heard of soy wax 😳 Best way of learning was message boards on suppliers websites; and their weren’t a lot of those. But it was fun at the time. Gave it up for a few years. Starting back this year, taking it slow and learning A LOT!

[@jesscardona2335]

Wade, I have to agree with picking a brand name. It has been the worst part verses make the candles. I loved the video, thanks

[@BlackTieBarn]

Thanks Jess!

[@robynfrazer3445]

Love your videos and your authenticity, they keep me motivated to keep going and not give up when it gets hard. I find time to invest into the business is a struggle when I also work full time to pay the bills. Keep the videos coming 😊

[@BlackTieBarn]

Thanks Robyn! I'll try! :)

[@TonicMercantile]

Glad you shared your journey. Always like to hear how people get started and what the catalyst was for starting a new adventure. I feel like people don't understand how success happens - it's not overnight - it's years of failures, experiences, successes, etc. Thanks for sharing!

[@BlackTieBarn]

💯

[@illumbiscotti]

Love your style of teaching. Food analogies are always a plus where I'm concerned! (Also, so glad to hear your sister is doing better.)

[@BlackTieBarn]

Thanks many I appreciate that. And yes... I can use food analogies anywhere. Lol

[@properandwise]

Hi Wade, Once again thank you for your informative video on the industry and your story. I loved your advice on pacing ourselves. I plan on launching this fall of 2024 and I keep coming back to your videos (a lot of times rewatching) for tidbit advice and encouragement. Thank you!

[@marisoldiaz6850]

Very nice from you to share all that. My experience. I was paying someone else on KZbin who teaches how to make candles. It didn't help enough. I cancelled and then i start to see your video, learn a lot from you, love the way you teach and one of the best thing is that you answer our questions right away, i think that you are the only one who do that.. congratulations for your progress. Thank you again for to share. With you i learn to make candles and still learning with your videos. YOU ARE THE BEST!! HOPE THAT GOD KEEP BLESSING YOU.

[@BlackTieBarn]

Thanks Marisol. I appreciate that and happy to help where I can. 😀

[@inspired00707]

Nice to see your story. Still one of the 'go to' candle making/business channels out there, looking forward to seeing more of your expansion too, keep up the good work Wade 👌

[@BlackTieBarn]

Much appreciated!

[@MushroomAngel]

Videos like this gives newer makers like me confidence and an understanding that things don’t happen overnight and that it’s ok to take your time. I’m going on 2 years of testing now. Thank you Wade!

[@BlackTieBarn]

Yep, exactly

[@seanchaitu4628]

This channel is so inspirational for me , in the process of starting my own business and these videos help so much . Really grateful 🙏🏽

[@BlackTieBarn]

Thanks Sean!

[@rcksnow]

I’m just starting. The video gave me food for thought. I usually jump in all out and get burntout. I decided to slowdown and go with a smaller line. Thanks.

[@BlackTieBarn]

👍👍 not a bad way to approach it for sure

[@minez86]

I was wondering where you go so glad that you are back. Its really 3 people I learn the most from that's you, Standley Handcraft, Memory Box Candle Co. Thank you for this journey you just motivated me to continue with my candle business. I research, learn, test for a year also before I gave to friends,& family. I just gave my co workers testers 😂😂. Like you my husband love candles and I just like you thought I could just make a candle went to hobby lobby and was like WHAT AM I DOING... that's when I fought you all channel. So I really want to say again Thanks you so much.

[@BlackTieBarn]

Hey Vicky. Thanks but not sure what you mean. I've been uploading about 2 videos a week for the past year. :) Ate you still subscribed with notifications turned on. If not, sometimes youtuune won't send you the videos. :/

[@mynaturalperfume828]

LOVE YOUR STORY WHY AND HOW YOU STARTED ❤️💖❤️💖❤️💖💯🌹

[@deannamilne8845]

Thank you for sharing your story. You are truly an inspiration! 💛✨ I am so grateful for all the time you put in to helping other candle makers. I have learned so much from you 🙂

[@BlackTieBarn]

Thanks so much Deanna. :)

[@Straingelove]

Just came to like after the notification before I watch later. Can’t wait!!

[@BlackTieBarn]

🤣

[@sallymoore6920]

Great video. I agree take your time. I find people just want this instant success. Nope. I started at my kitchen like most. Then moved to a SMALL affordable location. I am working on changing and growing this location in the next 2 years. Already easily meeting my expenses and affording to advertise, add more lines etc. just take your time and learn from any mistakes. It’s okay to them.

[@BlackTieBarn]

👍 thanks Sally!

[@Freedom-xh2hc]

Thank you for all you do. I’m so happy with the update on your sister. She’s been in my prayers and was wondering how she is. WONDERFUL NEWS!!!

[@BlackTieBarn]

Thanks so much!

[@diamondsfanj]

Just started the video but I always LOVE hearing people’s stories so I’m excited about this.

[@BlackTieBarn]

Thanks Jamie. :)

[@lynnthomas8848]

Seeing you telling telling us your journey, the trials and errors, most importantly how long it took you to get where you are; I realize I too have traveled a similar path. I think too many of us build to fast, invest a small fortune, and we watch you with awe, and a bit of jealously. You give me hope. I am Frustrated that I started about a year ago and I am just now thinking about the market. I’ve chosen my scents, my wax and FINALLY my wicks. I am very insecure about selling. But I have submitted my first application. Thank you for what you do.

[@BlackTieBarn]

Thanks for sharing Lynn. I appreciate that. :)

[@yuyigb]

¡Gracias!

[@BlackTieBarn]

👍❤️

[@fredpfeiljr6450]

Hi Wade, My own journey has some roadblocks and hairpin curves in it for sure !! I found you just recently after having an idea of candles. I have done leather work as a hobby, and after retiring a couple of years ago, do it 'sort of' as a part time business now. Lots of details about that, but had the thought of doing leather scented candles to go along with the leather product sales. Once I started watching your videos, have gained a real interest in all the facets of the candle making business, and have been binge watching ever since!! haha. Thanks for all the helpful videos and ideas, and helping me to avoid the pitfalls of being so uninformed that I don't know enough to even ask a "dumb" question !! LOL Take care! Fred

[@BlackTieBarn]

No problem Fred. Thanks for the back story and the feedback!

[@anwaarcandleco5054]

Amazing video as always. My candles were one of the first ones that you reviewed, very grateful. I have learned sooo much from you! Congratulations on your achievements

[@BlackTieBarn]

Thanks so much! I remember for sure. :)

[@darlagracia7490]

Love all your videos!! It was nice to see a glimpse of your journey

[@BlackTieBarn]

Thanks Darla

[@indigoscents]

Absolutely love your channel and content! You’re a true blessing to the chandler community! 🤍

[@BlackTieBarn]

Thank you. 🤗

[@kellirodriguez4370]

Listening to your story is great… everyone has a story and I love you made this a passion even if you started off to “prove a point” LMAO!!! I spent tons on candles…. Love candles and so thought I would give it a shot… I did start researching and waiting videos and three of you inspired me…. Guess who are the three!!!!

[@BlackTieBarn]

That's awesome Kelli! I have a good feeling. 🤣

[@kellirodriguez4370]

@@BlackTieBarn 😀 Your awesome 👏 Thank you for all you do!!!

[@josemarrero3167]

Great video. I haven't even poured my first candle and I was cluttering my brain with alot of candle making business details. So I'm already learning to pace myself. Thanks again for the very helpful video.

[@BlackTieBarn]

Easy to do! Guilty of it nyself. Thanks Jose!

[@rebeccahatfield]

I love this video so much! Such an interesting story. I am so grateful that our journey’s intersected. I have learned so much from you and I know my journey has been a lot smoother because of your help. Gratitude from the bottom of my soul for you!! ❤🤗

[@katiefrederick4136]

Wade, your video’s are inspirational, educational and just plain easy to watch. I haven’t made the jump into candle making yet, but I’m excited to start the journey, I have some product, wicks etc, and just like you many many 1 oz FO. I’m excited to hear all the new great things you have planned, I’m also not that far from KC, just up the road in NE. I’d love to take a trip down to see your open shopping and or production area. Congratulations on the new 7000 sq Ft relocation.

[@BlackTieBarn]

Thanks Katie. I appreciate that very much. And sure. I'll definitely be posting on the channel when I'm in the new space. :)

[@bossfan8]

Great informative video Wade, thank you. It's real good to know how you started and progressed up until now. We could all learn something from this...much appreciated.

[@BlackTieBarn]

Thanks jackie!

[@Beth77755]

I'm glad you mentioned your sister and am glad she's doing well. ❤ I've been wondering for months (ever since I watched your fundraiser "how to" video). I too have a thing with FOs and ideas - I have a lot 😂🤷🏻‍♀

[@BlackTieBarn]

Thanks Beth. So far so good. Rough for about a year though

[@Beth77755]

@@BlackTieBarn (hugs to all)

[@marowellavalenaretaga2524]

Thank you for sharing☺️😍

[@BlackTieBarn]

My pleasure 😊

[@chadtravis9253]

Loved the video, helpful as always. I am very new and feel great about the wax melts I’ve been making. Fortunate to have an avenue selling in my daughters coffee shop and family’s online boutique. Getting cold feet on candles, but hope to jump in soon. And then to figure out how to expand sales opportunities after that! Thanks as always for the information.

[@BlackTieBarn]

No problem Chad. Yah, candles are trickier for sure but you can do it. Rememerb..Remember... you didn't know how to make wax melts at one point as well. :) What wax did you go with for your melts by the way?

[@chadtravis9253]

@@BlackTieBarn Thanks for the encouragement! After trying random soy samples to start, I went with your ProBlend 650 wax suggestion and really like it. Between mainly Midwest Fragrance and Flaming Candle I’ve found a few really good scents to start with as well!

[@chaecoco2]

That is a nice kitchen.

[@BlackTieBarn]

Lol. Thank you!

[@heathersmith3953]

foot in mouth LOL I started the same way - got a little kit from Hobby Lobby and was determined!

[@BlackTieBarn]

🤣🤣

[@MarcelWiegerinck73]

Thanx

[@darrelllewissr9413]

Great Story ❤️

[@BlackTieBarn]

Thanks Darrell

[@GreenWitch1]

What is this “other” thing you speak of 🤔 Anxious to hear about that!

[@kathleenpizarro3547]

yes it's tough for sure but I followed your advice 😊

[@BlackTieBarn]

❤️👍

[@kathleenpizarro3547]

@@BlackTieBarn thankyou so much you have helped me alot what a journey it is to start

[@cathyhartley2249]

I’m interested in the kits your talking about that you talked about on utube. For beginners Cathy Hartley

[@Johnny-hx8xe]

Not sure how I came across your channel but I’m happy I did, I’ve wanted to try to make candles but was confused on how to go about it, thanks to you it’s making sense…question though, did you have another job at the time you started? How long did you work on candles if you did? When did you decide to take it full time?

[@BlackTieBarn]

Yes I would DEFINITELY recommend starting as a side hobby, then side income. Then after track record of consistent sales and income its your call when. I usually tell people if they can make 50% more than their current income it's worth considering. But think about other cost, insurance, retrlirement, etc. And it also depends on current income. Trying to replace 150k salary much different than 40k so the answer will truly depend on the individual

[@JeffStuderJVSimpleScents]

Can I ask where do you get most of your vessels?

[@loradietmeyer4416]

Have you used Mica for your candles or melts? I ordered some, but my husband read an article that the dust is dangerous to your lungs. What do you know about it?

[@BlackTieBarn]

I have not. There are some candle/soap safe micas I believe. But I don't use any myself

[@katquinn64]

I love scents, I am a sucker for them. I want to have something for everyone.

[@BlackTieBarn]

Me too. Lol

[@s44577]

Wade--you can NEVER have too many FO's ;) This is what I keep telling myself.

[@BlackTieBarn]

Haha.. keep telling yourself that. 🤣 I thought I never had enough... until I did. Lol

[@sergiurus4115]

i have a question... is there any advantages if you pour your candle in a container with cap? if yes.. why do you make opened cap candles? sry for my broken english...

[@BlackTieBarn]

Do you mean a lid or cover? Yes all candles are poured without a cover. Then later you can add a lid or cover if you want. It's optional. Doesn't affect how the candle burns.

[@sergiurus4115]

@@BlackTieBarn if you dont use a lid is the fragrance gonna be milder?

[@candlewhisperer]

Hello wade Thomas Great tutorial as usual!!! I would definitely be interested in more videos on your journey of becoming an awesome candlemaker. Please elaborate more on your beginning years where you trying to find your footing in candlemaking. When did you know that your ability to make a functional product had arrived? You are (for me) an excellent mentor because through your tutorials I have learned how to properly make candles. However, I sometimes feel overwhelmed. I know I have a product but I scared that no one will feel the same. That feeling gets me paralyzed and I stop making candles for a time. It is some many variables to creating the best products and company that I just feel overwhelmed because I don't want to fail. I am working through this now. I guess I just need to take baby steps. I pray that in 12 years I will be a seasoned candlemaker like yourself. Good luck on all your upcoming endeavors. Are you up to doing one on one coaching again? Via Zoom!!! Thank you so much for the service of your time that you place in each video. It isn't in vain!!! You are really helping us🙂🙂🙂!!!

[@traceymoraleja4377]

Sir!! Wade!! This is the 4th time i want to show support by buying ur candles and ur website istill shut down

[@BlackTieBarn]

Hi Tracey. Yes, I'm still moving and trying to get settled while also prepping for late fall and all winter. While also still trying to keep content going for everyone here. :) Its a lot... but I'm working hard at trying to get it all done and caught up. Thank you. 😁😊

[@donmichaelscandleco.7612]

It's so great to hear your journey and how you started:) definitely very interesting, Loved this video:) what helped you get your huge white label account was it KZbin? Also what exactly is a white label account? Sorry for all the questions just really curious:)

[@BlackTieBarn]

Nah I had private label and white label accounts for for like 6 years. Just every year things change ya know. Some accounts grow, some come and go etc. White label and private label very similar. I have a video on them In more detail. The biggest distinction is usually exclusivity but doesn't have to be. Private label usually making something unique and specific for a brand under their name. White label is anyone can buy from a catalog for example and use their label. But it isn't their specific scent.

[@mynaturalperfume828]

What happened to this girlfriend? At what point in the journey did you brake up?

[@marykaywagner834]

At what point did you lose the original girlfriend??? LOL

[@BlackTieBarn]

After I tried that first batch of candles. 🤣🤣🤣 kidding. Lol