Using fresh candles? Light them before the party starts to burn off excess residue/wax on the wicks. It only takes a moment, then extinguish.

They will light faster the 2nd time when the pressure is on and you’re preparing to present the cake.

You’ll save a few seconds but with kids at your kitchen table pounding their forks waiting to sing ♫ Happy Birthday ♫ it will probably feel like hours!