The Story Behind Cork & Candles: From Family Business to National Franchise

For co-founder Dave Straub, the journey of Cork & Candles began in his childhood, making candles with his dad and selling them door-to-door. “When I was around 12 to 14 years old, I made candles with my dad,” he recalls. “I put them in a wagon, walked around my neighborhood, knocked on doors, took orders, came back to the basement, …

Understanding Franchise Fees and Royalties 

When considering a franchise, it’s important to understand the fees involved and what they actually cover. The two primary fees are the royalty and the brand fund, sometimes called a marketing fund.

Franchise ROI: What To Expect in Your First Year

Opening a franchise for the first time is an unforgettable milestone. After months of preparation, planning, and learning the ropes, you finally welcome your first customers and see your vision come to life. It’s a moment filled with energy, pride, and a sense of ownership.  As our co-founder Dave Straub reflects on his own experience as a franchisee for Brewsters …

Montgomery County Business Owner Chris Holloway Needs Second Kidney Transplant

After three decades in the mortgage business, Chris Holloway, now a Cork & Candles franchise owner in Ardmore, is facing his toughest challenge yet, the need for a second kidney transplant. Holloway was first diagnosed with a rare disease, FSGS, and underwent a life-saving transplant in 2016. Sadly, the kidney began to fail in May 2024, forcing him to begin …

Cork & Candles featured in Beyond Fast Food: Uncovering Unique Franchise Opportunities | Built By Me Podcast Ep. 2

Think franchising is just for burger joints and sandwich shops? Think again. In the latest episode of the Built By Me Podcast (Ep. 2), hosts Taina and Mo sit down with franchise expert and CEO of Milestone Franchising, Lisa Linkowsky, and let’s just say, this conversation goes places. We’re talking everything from pet waste disposal franchises to million-dollar buildouts and …

Chris Holloway, Ardmore Franchisee, Needs a Kidney. Here’s How You Can Help!

If you’ve ever visited Cork & Candles in Ardmore, PA, chances are you’ve met the co-owner, Chris Holloway. Maybe he helped you pick out a scent that reminded you of home. Maybe he welcomed you with a smile and made you feel seen. That’s just who Chris is. He’s someone who shows up for people. Quietly. Consistently. With his whole …

Igniting a Franchise with Wax and Wicks: David Straub’s Cork & Candles Story

Pursuit of Podcast Episode 74 with David Straub of Cork & Candles

David Straub, Co-Founder, was featured in the Pursuit of Profit Podcast. Episode 74 is LIVE! In this episode of Pursuit of Profit, hosts Cliff and Justin sit down with David Straub, the co-founder of Cork & Candles, to explore how he turned a family candle-making tradition into a fast-growing franchise business. David’s entrepreneurial journey spans seven different companies (three of …

Join David Straub at The Franchise Forum on March 11!

If you’ve ever dreamed of owning your own business but weren’t sure where to start, The Franchise Forum is the perfect place to begin. On Tuesday, March 11, 2025, David Straub, Co-Founder of Cork & Candles, will be speaking on a panel at Benetrends Financial in Lansdale, PA, to talk about entrepreneurship, franchising, and the journey of building Cork & …

Vote for Cork & Candles as a Philly Favorites Date Night Activity

Cork & Candles is thrilled to announce that we’ve been nominated for The Philadelphia Inquirer’s Philly Favorites in the category of Date Night Activity under Things to Do! This recognition reflects what we hear from our guests every day—Cork & Candles is the ultimate destination for creating unforgettable memories with your significant other. Why Cork & Candles is the Perfect …

Cork & Candles at the Bridal & Wedding Expo in Philadelphia

This past weekend, January 4th and 5th, Cork & Candles had the pleasure of participating in the Pennsylvania & South Jersey Bridal & Wedding Expo at the Philadelphia Convention Center located at 1101 Arch Street. It was a fantastic opportunity to connect with attendees, including some familiar faces who’ve enjoyed candle-making at our corporate locations. Seeing the joy on everyone’s …