Since you are brand new to candlemaking, I'm assuming that you are just ordering enough to start to learn how to do this. I would think no more than a couple dozen to begin your testing and learning.
Interesting. Disappointing from a personal standpoint as I use CS as my supplier. However, I respect their right to do business however they see fit. Kudos to CS for setting their lines and refusing to cross them.
Lonestar was the first supplier I ever used, and Candlescience is the closest to me. Both are outstanding. I'd suggest never limiting yourself to just one supplier, lol!
they will send you samples if you contact them... excellent customer service, i once got a case that had a couple of lids that were broken. They replaced a couple of broken lids with an entire case. Can't beat that.