CC on Maui

I used to sell them individually. I used the fluted molds that BCN sells. A few months back I switched to the 6pk clamshells. I found the individual tarts (for lack of a better word) just too time intensive to package. So -- I started using the 6-pk clamshells. I love them, and so do my customers. I pour my base fragrance offerings in the 6-pks and also pour an assorted mix of my base fragrances. The assorted mix has become my #1 seller. BTW my 6-pk sells for $5.50. Time is money, so I'll continue to do the clamshells because of their ease in producing and their long shelf life (unlike the individuals that tend to need repacking after a while). Edited to add: When I did the individual tarts I sold them for $1.50 each

Hmmm......fun thread. I've got the popcorn popping as I type. I'm allergic to soy when ingested. Highly allergic. Doesnt' mean I don't appreciate a well made soy candle when it's presented to me. I've been blessed with many through the generosity of great swaps over the years. At the same time, I make only 100% paraffin candles (Mobil 140 MP, food grade, no additives). It's the only wax that is available to me at a somewhat reasonable price in the remote area where I live. I have come to know it intimately over the years, and I love it. I poured and sold over 8 tons of it last year. That said, my popcorn is finished and I'm pouring it in the bowl momentarily. When I've eaten it, I'm going to bed. you guys can continue this 'never-ending story' of soy vs paraffin forever if you want. I've seen it played out time and time again over the years. In the end, it still remains one opinion against another. The answer is that simple and that difficult

Aloha Fire, I'm gonna stand beside you on this one. IMHO, from what you described, this fella lacked professionalism in his approach. You have no obligation to 'employ' a rep if you don't want/need one. I would never allow someone who approached me as this fella did, to rep my line -- or even one candle for that matter. I think Michelle OH summed it up perfectly: my business is a representation/extension of myself. When and if you decide that you are ready to take on reps to market your line, then you need to be the one in the drivers seat. This guy (the way you described him) would have gotten 5 words from me: "I'm not presently hiring reps". My reps would be well-trained and trusted to convey the features and specifics of my line and the philosophy of my company. In the end, it is my reputation at stake -- no one elses.

As a former Comm Ed instructor, you might also check and see if: 1) they will waive the 4 person requirement; 2) allow the 3 people that are currently signed up to pay an additional $30 each (if they are willing to make up the 4th person fees) so that 'the show can go on'.

As a store owner myself, this is what I'm thinking probably happened.

Yup, looks like their site is down right now. Maybe their are updating the site with mini-christmas stocking discounts. LOL. A girl can dream, yes?

I buy my spools with the wick already pre-primed. I simply cut to desired length and crimp my tabs.

So sorry you had a bad experience. I had to stop using a supplier because of a similar issue. Every box that arrived from her reeked of ciggies when opened -- even the packing paper. You can imagine what the organza bags smelled like. I brought it to her attention, and she told me I was the only person who every had complained. Needless to say, I won't complain again, cuz I won't be ordering from her.

Ahhh Grasshopper....this is how ProPay makes their money. They float yours for a few days and make interest off it.

retail store wholesale online

I know only enough to be dangerous about websites. That said, I'm wondering what is the format that I should be saving my pictures in that I plan to upload? I am looking for the format that will allow them to upload easiest and fastest. I've been using jpg and/or gif , but they seem to be taking forever to load. What am I doing wrong? I've been working on a site that is unrelated to my B&B, and am about to stop, go pick up a bottle of Bombay Sapphire , and take a b-r-e-a-k. grrrr.... Anyone? Thanks.

The actual Bird of Paradise flower (tropical) has no scent at all. What a shame, too, as it is so lovely. Most "Bird of Paradise" products will have either a floral or tropical (fruity) scent, in an attempt to mimic what they believe this tropical flower would smell like -- if it had a smell. Bottom line? It can be whatever you would like. Hope this helps.

Found it and replied.

I have two merchant accounts, one which supports my e-commerce site exclusively (non-swiped internet sales) and a second one that is at my store for swiped transactions. I have both accounts through the link below, and have been with them for over 5 years. I've been really happy with their service. If you click on the link, scroll all the way to the bottom and you'll see an FAQ link and a Summary of Services link you can review. Hope this helps. http://www.advanta.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=bsc.bs_merchant&session_id=42004555&session_key=cxoKqthPgtBbpiwM Edited to add: If you call them for a quote, ask what specials they may have going on presently.

Sorry Soprey....I didn't see the thread. Can you lead me there? I'd be happy to repsond. Thanks.

Aloha Tracy, Here's my take FWIW: If it sounds too good to be true....it probably is. Those are pretty stellar rates, and certainly below the industry standard right now. Before I would ever commit to any bound agreement with these folks, I would want to see a blank (boilerplate) copy of their agreement that I would be asked to sign. I would read that fine print like there is NO tomorrow. Often times, these companies offer sweet deals (low introductory rates and such) and then jack them up, or nickle and dime you to death with 'other' fees soon after signing up. If you are truly looking for a good MA, ask here on the forum who is happy with theirs, what kind of rates they pay, etc. You should also check with your current local bank that you have your personal/business relationship with. That's my take on it, FWIW. Good luck, whatever you decide.

I'm with everyone else on this one. I don't know how long ago it was that you submitted your application and check, but for any Promoter to wait to issue you a declination 2 weeks before the event is unacceptable. I would contact her, and ask her very honestly why you were not approved, especially after participating in this event previously. Tell her you would prefer honest feedback from her so that you can avoid the chance of being caught up in such an anwful situation in the future (with them or someone else). I would also make her aware of the fact that since you had not heard back from her, you could only assume that you had been accepted, and had begun "crafting" for this event! Don't be defensive of bitchy about it --simply come from the truth and be honest. That way, you won't put her on the defensive and tune her out. Perhaps this will shame her into allowing you to participate. It certainly sounds like she dropped the ball on her end. I'm so sorry this occured for you.

Aloha, I don't do business with any international company that solicits me. The only time I've worked with any is when they have been referred by someone else (who I trust) who has a relationship with them. If you are considering bulk buys from foreign suppliers, it best to find a reputable broker to work with.

WOW...is all I can mutter....some people just amaze me (and not always in a good way).

I vote for the two A's from my corner of the world.

Man....you gotta love small towns and small minds. LOL Tomorrow, I expect you to be on the phone to the school and inquire who you need to meet with to discuss doing the fundraiser. That's certainly something that you can pursue on your own. You certainly don't need Ms. Priss for an introduction. I'll bet she would just sh*# pee bugs (whatever the heck they are) if you end up with the fundraiser! LOL GO FOR IT!

My WalMart sells a square votive holder. I mention this only because I think if you want to sell these votives, you should also market the holder. JMHO. I sell square pillars in the 2x3 and 2x6 size, and they are very popular. I have to believe that votives would be also. However -- that said -- votives require a holder for burning, unlike free-standing pillars.

Seeing the prices that Hallmark (and others) charge for candles should be a stout reminder to not sell yourself short! I certainly realize that you can't charge more than your market will bear, however....take a chance and mark your candles up a bit more than you think you should. Then, go out and market them proudly. You might be pleasantly surprised how well your customer responds. We can be our own worst enemy when it comes to placing a value on the things we create.

I'll echo what Jenny said. The bottom line? Don't be afraid to treat your business as a business. For those customers who say they want to be able to try your products, to be sure they will like them/they will sell, then offer a sampler pack. They can purchase it at retail prices, and if they end up placing a wholesale order, you can credit them the difference between the retail and wholesale price on their first order. Those who are serious will take advantage of this offer. Those that aren't..we'll..they weren't true wholesale customers in the first place.

I can comment on 'best' program, however, I love Print Shop and also MS Publisher. Both are very versatile and easy to use.