Our team of experts

Since 1978 and across 20K+ projects, we’ve helped brands thrive through change — backed by a flexible, global supply chain that delivers what you need, when you need it.

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A family team making candles since 1978

WHERE CREATIVITY SPARKS INNOVATION

Crafting premium, bespoke candles since 1978.
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Founded in 1978 and with 20,000+ custom projects since, Modern Candle is a family-run private label candle manufacturer in Sylmar (Los Angeles), California, and a trusted leader in the candle manufacturing industry. Known for its commitment to quality, innovation, and customization, the company collaborates with brands to craft bespoke candle lines that enhance their identity and align with their market goals. Modern Candle’s longstanding industry expertise and extensive knowledge of fragrance and design trends allow it to deliver products that meet the highest standards. From exclusive scent profiles to tailored packaging, Modern Candle offers a fully customizable experience, solidifying its reputation as the go-to partner for businesses seeking to elevate their offerings with premium, branded candles.

Our team

Arvin Pirijanian

Arvin Pirijanian

Name

Arvin Pirijanian

Role

VP of Operations

Experience

25 Years

Based

Los Angeles

Skills

Turn Key

Diffusers & Room Sprays

consulting (product development)

Design

About

From a young age, Arvin Pirijanian was captivated by the art of candle making, a passion kindled by his parents, Armik and Nora Pirijanian, the founders of Modern Candle. Since the age of six, he has been a constant presence on the production floor, first as a curious child eager to help (and occasionally stir up some mischief) and now as a leader within the company.

Growing up surrounded by waxes and wicks, Arvin developed an in-depth understanding of the candle-making process from the ground up. Today he leads product development, project management and supply chain logistics for Modern Candle.

Arvin's expertise goes beyond operational oversight. He has played a pivotal role in creating comprehensive programs for major retailers and mentoring new entrepreneurs entering the industry, and his hands-on approach has helped establish Modern Candle as a leader in candle manufacturing.

Arvin's journey from a young helper on the factory floor to a leader of the family business reflects a deep-rooted passion for candle making and a commitment to innovation and quality, carrying forward a legacy of craftsmanship that began in 1978.

Lynette Reed

Lynette Reed

Name

Lynette Reed

Role

Director of Business Development

Experience

30 years

Based

Italy

Skills

Design

Custom Candles

consulting (product development)

Fragrances

Turn Key

About

With more than 30 years in candles and home fragrance, and as the founder of Illume Candles, Lynette offers a comprehensive range of turnkey services in candle and fragrance creation, guiding your project from concept to completion. She has worked with hundreds of retailers and brands, helping them develop their own unique candle lines. From concept development and sourcing to production, and even trade show and showroom guidance, Lynette ensures every detail is expertly handled. While specializing in candles and home fragrance, her portfolio also spans personal care and perfume. Whether you're launching a full collection or starting from scratch, Lynette partners with you to create distinctive, captivating products that stand out in the market and are exclusive to your brand.

Horacio Portillo

Horacio Portillo

Name

Horacio Portillo

Role

VP of Transformation and Continuous Improvement

Experience

20+ years

Based

Los Angeles

Skills

Custom Candles

Diffusers & Room Sprays

Wax

About

Horacio is the Vice President of Transformation with extensive experience in implementing ERP systems and spearheading product development initiatives. He has a proven track record in managing P&L, budgeting, and enhancing customer service, as well as overseeing warehousing, purchasing, production, forecasting, and R&D efforts.

Known for his expertise in logistics, inventory control, and warehouse planning, Horacio also excels in human resources. His strong negotiation skills have led to successful contract agreements and pricing strategies, allowing him to establish EDI relationships with major retailers such as Walmart, Target, Costco, Ulta, and Kohl’s.

With proficiency in systems like NetSuite, SAGE 100, Acumatica, Shopify, and ShipStation, Horacio effectively translates complex data into streamlined operations. His dynamic transformation strategies not only enhance operational efficiency but also drive sustained organizational success, positioning his team for future growth and innovation.

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Armik & Nora

Armik & Nora

Name

Armik & Nora

Role

Founders

Experience

1978 - today

Based

Los Angeles

Skills

Custom Candles

Diffusers & Room Sprays

consulting (product development)

About

Husband and wife Armik and Nora Pirijanian founded Modern Candle in 1978 after immigrating to the United States. With unwavering dedication to their vision, they transformed their aspirations into a prominent name in the candle manufacturing industry. From humble beginnings, they navigated significant challenges, including language barriers and financial obstacles, by harnessing their resilience and commitment to the American Dream.

Under their leadership, Modern Candle has reached impressive heights and is recognized for its innovative contributions to the industry. They played a crucial role in developing candle wick technologies, a groundbreaking advancement that has set new standards in candle making.

Armik and Nora bring extensive technical expertise in formulation and manufacturing, ensuring Modern Candle remains at the forefront of the industry. Their strategic vision for high-quality production, coupled with a hands-on approach, has earned them respect and trust within the candle-making community.

Their commitment goes beyond production; they are actively involved in every step of the process, maintaining a daily presence on the factory floor to ensure excellence at all levels. Under their guidance, Modern Candle has consistently adapted to meet and exceed market expectations, establishing benchmarks in design and quality.

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