Troy Arntsen | Crafting a Luxury Candle Brand with Voluspa

The Founder Hour

Troy Arntsen, co-founder and president of Voluspa, transformed a simple idea into a global luxury candle brand renowned for its exquisite scents and impeccable quality. Hailing from Minnesota, Troy was a self-described "daydreamer" who defied expectations when he traded a promising engineering career for the world of essential oils. His decision, met with initial doubts from his family, was fueled by an unshakable entrepreneurial spirit.

In 1999, armed with only a few thousand dollars and the unwavering support of his partner, Troy relocated to Southern California with a dream to create Voluspa. What began as a humble kitchen operation—where late-night candle pouring was the norm—evolved into a global brand, with Voluspa candles now sold in over 80 countries. The company’s success stems from its commitment to using premium, natural ingredients and a dedication to elegant design, setting it apart in a market saturated with generic offerings.

Troy’s engineering background proved invaluable as he developed Voluspa’s signature coconut wax blend, a unique innovation that remains central to the brand's identity. Over the past 25 years, he navigated the complexities of scaling a business, from building a team to mastering the e-commerce landscape, all while staying devoted to his family.

Today, Voluspa is a leader in luxury home fragrances, with Troy still passionately steering the ship. His journey from a small-town Minnesota dreamer to a successful entrepreneur is a powerful testament to the importance of pursuing one's passions, upholding core values, and building a business with integrity and perseverance.

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