Connor Church's love affair with the sea began at a young age, blossoming into a career as an Entertainment Host for Carnival Cruise Line. For five years, he traversed the globe, meeting fascinating people and soaking in the unique energy of life at sea. While the allure of the open ocean never faded, the transition to a land-based life called. But the dream of cruising refused to be silenced.
This is where Club Voyage sets sail. Born from Connor's desire to keep the spirit of cruising alive, Club Voyage offers a unique way to recapture those cherished memories – through the power of scent. Imagine being transported back to a vibrant Caribbean beach, the salty air tingling your senses, or the tranquil serenity of a spa day aboard your favorite ship. This is the magic Club Voyage strives to recreate.
Evoking Memories, One Candle at a Time
At the heart of Club Voyage lies a meticulous selection of fragrances designed to evoke specific experiences. Whether it's the exhilarating energy of a port day (think bustling marketplaces and exotic spices) or the elegant formality of a night in the main dining room, each scent tells a story.
The development process is a labor of love. From the initial spark of inspiration to the final "sea trials" (testing the fragrance in a candle format), Connor invests countless hours in perfecting each scent, ensuring it truly captures the essence of its inspiration. This dedication shines through in Club Voyage's signature "Caribbean Coast" candle, a refreshing blend of sea salt, ozone, and eucalyptus that instantly transports you to a sun-drenched beach paradise.
Beyond the Candle: The Voyage+ Experience
Club Voyage takes customer experience to the next level with their Voyage+ subscription box. Delivered monthly, each box features a new signature 8 oz candle, along with essential candle care accessories like a match set, snuffer, and wick trimmer. This curated experience allows you to embark on a year-long exploration of scents, with each month transporting you to a different aspect of the cruising lifestyle. It's the perfect way to keep the wanderlust alive and your home smelling like a luxurious escape.
A Conversation with the Captain: Connor Church on Club Voyage
Q: What inspired you to start Club Voyage?
A: After working on cruise ships, I wanted to find a way to keep the cruising experience alive while adjusting to a normal life. Club Voyage allows people to bring that sense of adventure and relaxation home.
Q: How do you choose the scents for your candles?
A: Initially, we focused on specific cruise experiences like spa days and elegant nights. Now, we create scents based on popular ports of call, truly transporting you to those beautiful tropical destinations.
Q: Can you tell us a little bit about the development process for a new product and how long it typically takes?
A: The development process can be difficult as I like to release products the next day after I come up with an idea. However, I try and enjoy sampling new scents, browsing different candle labels, creating new labels, and working through the “sea trials” phase. I will usually spend a month or two perfecting the perfect scent/product before we launch!
Q: Do you have a favorite product?
A: I have a soft spot for "Caribbean Coast," the first scent I ever created. It takes me right back to my favorite Caribbean beach.
Q: If somebody was going to get just one of your candles, which one do you think would get them hooked and be loyal customers?
A: I definitely think Caribbean Coast will get any Voyager hooked on our brand.
Q: Can you tell me a little bit more about your monthly candle subscription?
A: Voyage + is our monthly candle subscription where you can get your favorite candles delivered straight to your doorstep each month. Voyagers can save 30% off when they join Voyage + and get free shipping on all future orders. Our monthly candle subscription includes an 8 oz signature candle and a starter pack with a match set, candle snuffer, and wick trimmer. You can manage, skip, or cancel at anytime.
Q: Where can people find you?
A: We are currently selling only online at www.clubvoyage.shop. The goal is hopefully join some of the local markets here in Minneapolis and meet our Voyagers in person!
Q: What is one of the unexpected takeaways that you’ve taken away from being a small business owner?
A: Being a small business owner is unlike anything I have ever experienced. It is fun, challenging, and definitely keeps me busy. I love the feeling when a new order comes in. It is exciting to know that my brand is capturing the eyes of another voyager ready to set sail on a great adventure! Managing Inventory is probably the hardest part as well as keeping up with social media.
Q: Why should people help support a small business?
A: I completely understand that you can get a cheaper candle from your local large retail or grocery store however, the time, passion, and effort that goes into designing and creating a brand makes the support from our community so important to us. As a small business owner I am able to connect with our voyagers on a more intimate level.
Q: Would you rather take more cruises in an interior cabin or less cruises with a balcony or suite?
A: Ohhh hard one! I would take the balcony or suite any day!
Q: What’s your favorite kind of deck party on a cruise?
A: I absolutely love the 80’s deck party. There is nothing like dressing up in my neon sweatpants and putting on a cute headband while dancing to your favorite 80’s hits.
Q: Are you a fan of the main dining room?
A: I love the MDR! There is nothing like sitting down for a traditional dinner after a full day of cruising. It is so much fun getting to know other fellow cruisers as well as your waiters and waitresses that provide wonderful service and a memorable experience.
Q: My favorite place to eat on a cruise ship?
A: Another hard one… It is probably between Blue Iguana Cantina and The Dock House onboard Virgin Voyages
Q: Favorite port of call?
A: Cozumel, Mexico
Q: Least favorite Port of call?
A: Ochio Rios, Jamaica
Q: What is your favorite Cruise line?
A: I am a Carnival boy for life however, from my recent experience onboard Virgin Voyages, I think I may be an addicted sailor now!
Q: What is your favorite scent to create?
A: Probably Miami Nights. It was so fun to create a scent that not only reminded you of your favorite home port but also the Miami nightlife!
Q: What is the biggest challenge you've faced as a small business owner?
A: Managing inventory and keeping up with the world that is social media. It is so hard to stay relatable and consistent but I try to remember that I have a passion for this brand and I know you will too!
Q: What is your proudest moment as the owner of Club Voyage?
A: I think the day I received my LLC making this business official. It was such a wonderful moment to truly see this business come to life. Also I think watching voyagers open and enjoy our products brings joy to my heart and soul.
Q: What are your future plans for Club Voyage?
A: I would love to open a cruising themed hotel experience on land one day. And maybe eventually maybe start a new Cruise Line! (way down the road)
Q: Do you have any advice for aspiring entrepreneurs?
A: DO IT! Don’t let the idea go. Anyone can start a business and truly make any passion or dream come to life.
Setting Sail Towards the Future
Club Voyage isn't just about candles. Connor's vision extends to creating a land-based cruising experience – a hotel themed around the unique atmosphere of a ship. And who knows, maybe one day, a new cruise line could even be on the horizon! For aspiring entrepreneurs, Connor's message is simple: DO IT! Don't let your passion go to waste. With dedication, you can turn your dreams into reality.
Ready to Set Sail with Club Voyage?
Visit Club Voyage online at www.clubvoyage.shop to
Explore their collection of candles and other cruise-inspired products. Embark on a voyage for the senses and bring the magic of cruising home.
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