Candles

For me, the warm glow of candlelight is both welcoming and soothing… and sexy.  Candlelight magically transforms a room, creates a mood, or sometimes simply reflects the mood I’m already in at the time.  In my home, whether it’s a quiet evening or a festive occasion, I love a spray of votives on a table or dresser.  Larger pillar candles sit on the piano, the entertainment cabinet, and on kitchen countertops.  The stillness of a flame calms me and seems to reinforce the notion that home is a sacred space.

A couple of years ago, I made the switch to using soy candles.  Soy candles, unlike paraffin candles (petroleum-based), are clean-burning.  And, although some beekeepers are humane, soy candles are a better bet when it comes to choosing cruelty-free.  Another interesting angle: buying soy candles supports American farmers.  Fortunate for us, soy candles have become so popular that they are available in many places that have candle selections – even Target!

If you’re feeling adventurous, looking for something even a little exotic, here are some noteworthy options:

• Soy Candles by Phebes
  These candles are handcrafted, made to order,100% soy wax. She’s got a huge selection of scented candles – yummy scents like sandalwood and sweet cotton.  There’s a “puppy breath” scent that, at the moment, I am thinking just might be my purchase of the day!  In addition to candles, she offers scented tarts, which are new to me.  Would love to hear from anyone who tries them out.
• BeanPod Candle
  The Candlescapes line — candles in a glass and available in five sizes — are just gorgeous. The scents have great names, like “Smiles & Laughs” and “Cocktail Delight.”  Also comes in unscented.  The Escape Jar, a style that features a sleek, tapered glass container, could be the perfect gift.  “Sahara Sunshine” sounds quite seductive, doesn’t it?
• Yankee Candle
  Beanswax All-Natural Soy Candles.  It’s great to see an established company like YC adding soy candles to their offerings.  Their signature tumblers have never looked so good!

Related posts: