Small Business Diaries: What It’s Really Like Running a Candle Business

When people hear that I run a candle business, I usually get one of two reactions: either “Oh my gosh, that sounds so cosy!” or “That must smell amazing!” And honestly — they’re both right. But between the scent testing, late-night pouring sessions, and endless labelling, there’s a lot more that goes into Blend & Burn than meets the eye.

I started Blend & Burn because I’ve always loved the little rituals that make life feel slower and softer — lighting a candle, sipping a cup of tea or coffee, and taking a moment to just be. I wanted to create candles inspired by those same comforting brews — the matcha pick-me-ups, the calming tea blends, the coffee-scented mornings that feel like home.

But here’s the truth about running a small candle business: it’s equal parts magic and mayhem.

There are the moments that make your heart swell — when someone messages to say a scent has become their new favourite candle, or when a stockist places a repeat order because their customers love your candles. And then there are the less glamorous bits — like finding wax in your hair, supply issues, lifting heavy boxes up the stairs, or trying to photograph candles when the winter light disappears by 3pm.

Most days, it’s a mix of creativity and chaos. One hour I’m testing a new blend that smells like a dreamy festive drink (hello, Peppermint Mocha), the next I’m racing to the ship online orders before the post office closes. It’s not picture-perfect — but it’s real, and it’s mine.

Running Blend & Burn has taught me that being a small business owner means wearing all the hats — candlemaker, packer, designer, marketer, accountant, and occasional delivery driver. But it’s also taught me how much love people have for the small details — the handwritten notes, the care that goes into each pour, and the idea that a simple candle can genuinely make someone’s day better.

When you light one of our candles, you’re not just buying a product. You’re holding something that started in my kitchen, grew through trial and error, and was made with a whole lot of passion (and caffeine).

So yes — it smells amazing. Yes — it’s cosy. But it’s also hard work, late nights, and a constant learning curve. And I wouldn’t change it for the world.

Because every time someone lights a Blend & Burn candle — maybe with a cup of tea in hand, maybe after a long day — it reminds me exactly why I started.