PRODUCT TREND: CANDLES

according to Miller. “They are poured into a reusable cocktail glass, and as soon as you pick them up, you will feel inspired by the heft and elegance.”

Old Whaling Co.’s candles are handcrafted in Charleston, South Carolina. The company uses a blend of soy and olive wax which founder and owner April Budney says leads to a longer burn time than traditional wax candles. “Additionally, our candles include a lead-free cotton wick.”

Customers are drawn to the eye-catching, bright and colorful packaging. The company just debuted new candle packaging. “Our 12 oz. glass candles feature the same soothing aromas with a fresh look,” Budney describes.

DECISIONS, DECISIONS, DECISIONS

Budney suggests buyers consider a variety of details when choosing a candle line to carry, including product appeal, quality and originality.

“Candles are meant to be displayed and are used to enhance an environment and set a mood so their packaging and fragrance should support that desire,” she explains.

When trying to find the right line to carry in your seaside store Goodrich suggests, “Start with finding an aesthetic that really matches your store and will have a high appeal to your customer’s taste, remembering that for most, this is more than just a candle, it’s a design element for their home.”

Customer service is also key. “We get business because people fall in love with the aesthetics and the fragrance options of our candles,” says Goodrich. “We keep it and grow those relationships over time because we execute flawlessly on order fulfillment and customer service.”

You can help your customers find the perfect scent that captures their memories and fits their decor while also providing options that are eco-friendly and safe.

Tips from the presentation pros:

MICHAEL HALE Retail REHAB

Don’t forget that you are an extension of someone’s experience of the area, of their vacation.

FRATALIA Loggerhead Marinelife Center

The last thing your customers will remember is their experience in your store.

WILLIAM HILL Margaritaville Resort

Orlando

Have fun with it! People want to buy when a store is a performance, so treat it like a Broadway show.

STORY BY MARY ELIZABETH WILLIAMS-VILLANO AND