August 25, 2014

What's so special about Vance Kitira candles?

It's been almost 20 years since Vance Kitira, inspired by nature, created a new candle with a texture and look reminiscent of tree bark, thus launching his signature Timber candle series.  You and I (as retailer and sales rep) have watched this business grow over the years, and we often forget the unique qualities that made us embrace these candles in the first place.

Timber candles are the original hand-poured distressed texture candles.  Initially it was produced in only 3 colors: Brown Sugar, Moss and Wine.  Even though they are now available in 25 colors, those three original offerings still rank among Vance Kitira's best sellers!

How They Are Made
 
All Timber candles are hand-poured in Vance's native Thailand in a facility owned by his family.  His ownership allows him complete creative control as well as quality control.  In fact, he spends about half his time at the factory ensuring excellence on both fronts.
 
Vance's fully refined paraffin wax has been hydro treated to remove impurities and color.  The result is a wax that is clear as water, oder-free, food-grade and smokeless during burning.  Fine dyes from England and 100% cotton wicks from the USA are shipped to Thailand for the production process.
 
To enhance each candle's shelf appeal (and make sure it doesn't stay on your shelves very long) each pillar and taper candle is banded with a palm leaf ring and a distinctively tied bamboo skin that secures Vance's hangtag and adds value by telling the Timber story.
 
The result is a beautifully crafted candle presented at a remarkably reasonable and competitive price.
 
How They Are Used
 
As appealing as the candles look in your store, they come to life fully when in use.  Their warm glow and unique burn pattern enhance any occasion.  When burned correctly, the wax on the pillars will melt into the candle to create a luminary effect as it burns down.
 
This brings us to the question you and I both get asked frequently - are Vance's candles dripless?  You can answer "yes" with confidence, but there is one caveat.  The end user needs to keep the burning candle clear of any drafts like those created by air-conditioning/heating vents and ceiling fans.  The moving air will unsettle the hot wax, changing the burn pattern and likely leading to drippage.
 
Timber candles should never be placed directly on a fabric or furniture surface.  Timber candle wax is saturated with color, and the dye may seep into wood crevices or leave color on fabric or synthetic surfaces.  This differentiates Vance's candles from less-expensive options that simply apply a layer of color over standard colorless wax, resulting in a red candle that is only red on the outside.
 
All Timber candles are unscented, making them ideal for entertaining or any event involving food service.  The long burn times mean your customer can light the candle once and not worry about it again.
 
Whether you're cozying up with a warm blanket and a good book, hosting dinner for 12 or planning an event for 250, Vance Kitira candles can create a mood that is tranquil, romantic or festive.
 
Sizes...including the Timber Pear
 
Timber candles are available as tapers, pillars and in the popular pear shape.  They are also available in limited colors in a goblet style, votives and an oblong multi-wick brick shape.
 
Much like the original Timber candles, the Timber Pear candle was introduced in 3 colors - only to take on a life of its own and become Vance's best-selling item for the last 4 years running!  Pear candles are a cost-effective way to get customer feedback on new colors.  You can also use them to add a punch of color (like pink) if you don't want the whole size assortment in that color.
 
I have seen many successful Timber candle displays, and the most common thread is that retailers group them together in a "I carry Vance Kitira candles" statement.
 
(Photo from urban merchant in Lynchburg, Virginia)
 
Let me know how I can help you grow your Vance Kitira business and make this holiday selling season a hit.  I'm available to work with you in person (with color samples), via phone, via email, via fax - whatever works best for you.