Running a micro business is no small feat, and one of the critical aspects that determine your success is where you source your supplies. It's a delicate balance of quality, affordability, and reliability. Today, we're going to talk about the best places to shop for your micro business and why choosing the right supplier can make a world of difference.
Stickers/Labels
Make Stickers is your one-stop-shop for all your custom sticker needs. They offer an effortless and efficient way to create personalized, high-quality stickers that showcase your brand, idea, or message effectively. Their user-friendly design platform allows you to either upload your own design or use their robust tools to create something entirely new, making it an excellent choice for businesses of all sizes. Make Stickers prides itself on its quick turnaround times, ensuring your ideas swiftly transform into tangible, vibrant, and durable stickers ready to enhance your brand presence. Whether you're a micro-business owner seeking to add a personal touch to your packaging or an artist wanting to share your work in a fun and accessible way, Make Stickers brings your vision to life one sticker at a time.
Bottles/Jars
Specialty Bottle is a top-notch supplier for businesses in need of a diverse range of glass, metal, and plastic containers. With an impressive catalog that spans from jars, bottles, tins, to closures, they're a one-stop-shop for all your packaging needs. Their high-quality products are perfect for everything from artisanal preserves to hand-poured candles, ensuring your goods are presented professionally and attractively. Coupled with excellent customer service, quick shipping, and bulk pricing options, Specialty Bottle stands as a reliable partner for micro-business owners, helping them meet their packaging needs in the most efficient and stylish way possible. Emphasizing on sustainability, they ensure that their packaging solutions are eco-friendly, helping businesses reduce their carbon footprint while also impressing their environmentally conscious customers. Cheap shipping and super fast shipping. Only downside is you can't customize lids/bottles.
Berlin Packaging is an industry-leading packaging solutions company, offering a comprehensive range of packaging products and services designed to optimize your business performance. They provide a wide variety of glass, plastic, and metal containers, closures, and dispensing systems, making them a one-stop-shop for all your packaging needs. Known for their commitment to quality and innovation, Berlin Packaging's solutions are both functional and aesthetically pleasing, ensuring your products stand out in a crowded market. Their team also provides excellent customer service, and their logistic capabilities ensure swift and reliable delivery. For the environmentally conscious business owner, Berlin Packaging places a strong emphasis on sustainability, making them a responsible choice for your packaging needs. If you're looking to enhance your product's presentation and make a lasting impression on your customers, Berlin Packaging is a partner you can count on. Longer shipping times but able to customize bottles/lid combos.
Fragrance Oils/Wax
Makesy: I would avoid Makesy if possible. Yes they have great branding and thier FOs are amazing. But they are too expensive, and the possibility of making a profit using their products is small. I see so many new candle brands use Makesy and then wonder why they are not making money. In order to make a profit the price of your candle will be in the $50+ range, which is just very hard to sell to the average consumer.
Bramble Berry is a beacon of inspiration and a supplier of choice for crafters in the soap and toiletry making community. Known for their extensive range of top-quality ingredients, supplies, and tools, Bramble Berry caters to the needs of both beginner soap makers and established businesses. They carry a myriad of products including essential oils, molds, colors, and an assortment of natural, vegan-friendly soap bases. But what truly sets Bramble Berry apart is their commitment to education. Their site is brimming with DIY tutorials, recipes, and tips, making it a treasure trove of information for anyone in the handmade soap and cosmetics industry. The combination of quality products and a supportive, educational community makes Bramble Berry an invaluable resource for any small business in the handmade bath and body sector. What's great about Brambleberry is they are soap maker focused, so not many people are using thier oils for candles, which really makes our scent stand out and limits the amount of others using the same scents.
CandleScience is more than just a supplier; it's a comprehensive resource for candle makers of all sizes. Boasting a wide range of products, from waxes, wicks, and fragrance oils to containers, dye chips, and candle making equipment, CandleScience is dedicated to providing high-quality supplies for both hobbyists and commercial candle makers. Their devotion to the craft is evident not only in their product offerings, but also in their commitment to education. CandleScience offers a wealth of information, including detailed guides, tutorials, and safety tips, making it a go-to resource for anyone in the candle-making industry. With outstanding customer service and fast, reliable shipping, CandleScience continues to light the way for micro-businesses in the candle-making industry. CandleScience is the cheapest on the market and therefore their scents are very one dimensional. I would suggest mixing it get a more layered and complex scent for half the price of Makesy.
Northwood Candle Supply is a trusted resource for micro-businesses in the candle-making field. Known for its extensive product line, Northwood offers a vast array of supplies that cater to both beginners and seasoned professionals. From a wide selection of fragrances, waxes, and wicks to a variety of containers, dyes, and essential tools, they have everything a candle maker needs. The company takes pride in its high-quality products, which are meticulously sourced to ensure they meet the highest industry standards. In addition to their supplies, Northwood Candle Supply is lauded for its customer service - their knowledgeable team is always ready to assist, making your shopping experience enjoyable and efficient. It's no wonder that Northwood Candle Supply has become a favorite among candle makers looking to light up their creativity. If CandleScience and Brambleberry had a baby, it would be Northwood.
Porter Candle Supply: THEY NEVER HAVE OILS IN STOCK!!! They are always on preorder.
If you're not into making your own custom products or just want to add to your offerings, shop Faire! This way you're supporting other local business and getting rad shit for your store!
Remember, the goal is to create amazing products that your customers will love, and where you source your supplies plays a significant role in that.
Please note that the information contained within this blog is intended for general informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice, nor is it intended to replace professional counsel. We encourage readers to consult with a qualified professional or legal advisor for specific advice tailored to their unique circumstances. Ghost Poppy assumes no responsibility for any actions taken based on the content of this blog.