What is it about buying a candle that just makes you feel instantly better about life? And then the act of lighting said candle and sitting back and enjoying the scent as it consumes your space is also, life affirming at times. From the old school Bath & Body Works candles that I would get in high school, to finally upgrading to the Volcano candle from Anthropologie.
There are some scents I find myself gravitating towards when it comes to candles. I love a clean fresh and fruity scent in the summer like grapefruit and bergamot. And for fall, something more woodsy and earthy is always nice. And fo the holidays, I might be known for hoarding Frasier fir and pine candles like it’s my job. Personally, I usually hate any real floral candle, so you won’t be seeing any of those in today’s list.
But whether you’re buying a candle for yourself, or as a gift (which is always a good idea if you ask me) these are a great option. Nothing too overbearing in terms of powerful scents. And they’re all beautiful. Plus, La Botica and Apotheke are two small New York City based businesses and it’s always nice to shop small!
My Favorite Candles
La Botica
This is a newer to me brand that’s founded by a black woman in New York. I have the Cereomny candle which is a mix of palo santo, cedarwood and citrus. It really smells amazing and I also LOVE the branding of her candles. She also has incense and perfume.
Lafco New York
I’ve really only tried the Lafco candles around the holidays. So I can’t even provide any feedback on non-holiday scents. But come winter, they’re my go-to for a Frasier fir, frosted pine, you name it, it’s good. And strong!
Candlefish
I didn’t own a Candlefish candle until I did one of their candle-making classes. And let me tell you, it’s a really fun way to spend 2 hours with a friend or two. And you go home with TWO candles. They have a ton of scents to choose from and one of my personal favorites is what they call their “sexy man” smell. It’s #92 and it just smells so good.
Otherland
One of my all time favorite candles in my home is my Otherland Dappled Wood which is sadly discontinued. But their candles are beautiful and they can really make a room smell incredible. It has a mix of sandalwood and toasted walnuts, so I’m now always on the hunt for those notes in a candle to try to replicate this one.
Apotheke
Another New York based brand, I love Apotheke’s scents. One of my latest candles from them is a grapefruit and sea salt one and it’s just perfection. Light, bright and fresh.
