Kristy Miller, the founder of The Scented Market, is taking a bold step in her entrepreneurial journey by expanding her business into the United States after successfully securing a trademark there. The move represents a significant milestone for the Canadian-based brand, which specializes in farmhouse-style mason jar candles.
“When I first started The Scented Market six years ago I knew I immediately wanted to trademark in Canada and in the U.S.,” said Miller.. “It happened for me very quickly in Canada and easily but someone owned something similar to The Scented Market in the U.S. So I was unable to acquire a successful trademark.
“They let their trademark slip and didn’t renew it. So I kind of slid in there and was able to successfully get a trademark in the U.S. which was a big deal for me because I believe that in order for The Scented Market to grow we need to grow the country and all of North America. I really think this opens up huge stores for us.”
The expansion marks a new chapter for The Scented Market, six years after Miller launched the company.
“When I received the email on, I think it was like December 26th or something, it was something crazy. I was like, ‘Oh my God, my Christmas gift as an entrepreneur,'” Miller shared, reflecting on the moment she realized her U.S. trademark had been approved.
Her entrepreneurial journey began a few years ago out of her kitchen in Guelph, Ontario.
Little did she know then how her simple fascination for scents and her eco-friendly candles would take off in popularity.
The Scented Market is a fast-growing Canadian business known for its self-care mission and soy wax candles, home decor, and body products.
And from that simple idea, Miller has created a growing retail empire with some fascinating exposure along the way. In November 2022, Miller was on the hit CBC television show Dragon’s Den where she received offers from six of the dragons before accepting a deal with well-known entrepreneurs Arlene Dickson and Michele Romanow.
Then in May 2023, Miller was named Entrepreneur of the Year by CanadianSME Business Magazine.
Big Goals for the U.S. Market
Miller sees enormous potential in the U.S., where she believes the brand can grow substantially. “I would like to make Canada 20 per cent of our business and the U.S. 80 per cent of our business,” she explained. The market’s larger size and spending power, combined with the popularity of farmhouse-style decor, align perfectly with her brand’s aesthetic and vision.
“We will never forget our Canadian fans and our Canadian communities. We want to always prioritize them but in 2025 our goal and our vision is to really put a ton of effort into growing the U.S. side of things.
Despite her enthusiasm, Miller is realistic about the challenges. “A lot of people think, ‘Oh, it’s easy. Just slide into the U.S. and blow up.’ And so I don’t think it’s that easy,” she noted. “It’s like a baby business that I have to restart all over again.”
Currently, The Scented Market is focusing on online retail and wholesale distribution in the U.S. Miller is also contemplating future growth strategies, including potentially establishing a physical presence or manufacturing division south of the border.
Canada Remains a Priority
While expanding into the U.S. is a key focus for 2025, Miller emphasized her commitment to the Canadian market. “We have an incredible foundation in Canada,” she said. “We’ll definitely still be growing the Canadian side of things, but I need to look at The Scented Market in a long-term vision.”
Miller believes diversifying geographically will also mitigate challenges such as currency conversion rates, which have posed financial hurdles for Canadian businesses.
Building Community and Brand Presence
The Scented Market’s success has been driven by more than just its products. The company has cultivated a community of customers who value not only candles but also home decor and self-care.
The expansion into the U.S. represents a new opportunity to connect with influencers and celebrities who align with the brand’s mission and values. “Farmhouse style is huge in the States,” Miller said, expressing optimism about the brand’s future growth.
Looking Ahead
With her sights set on making The Scented Market a household name across North America, Miller is determined to balance ambition with strategic planning. “We will never forget our Canadian fans and our Canadian community,” she said. “But growing in the U.S. could make a huge impact and a huge difference for us.”
The year ahead promises to be a pivotal one for The Scented Market, as Miller embarks on her mission to light up homes and hearts across borders.
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Anatomy of a Leader: Kristy Miller, Founder of The Scented Market
