MY FAVORITE SCENTS TO CREATE A ZEN VIBE

Boughie Scented Candles (Black Curant Absinthe)

When it’s cold, I’m definitely a home body, so I like to make my ambiance warm with a cozy vibe. At this point in life, I’m all about experiences—and that includes multiscensory experiences through scent. I find myself drawn to candles that emit different moods as I move from room to room. Home is the one place that we can create an ambience that feels like luxury, or simply reflect different sides of our personalities. I normally swap in a new leading star each week, so it’s the first thing my family smells when journeying down the stairs, or when I’m starting my remote work day.

Because all candles aren’t created equal, here are my 3 favorite brands that I turn to when I need to create a mood. While some candles are a splurge, I’m over buying cheaper options with cutesy names that smell terrible (or not at all) when you get them home.

BOUGIE SCENTED CANDLES

 

Note included in my first order a few years ago (it’s likely that scents and pricing have changed). Although I haven’t tried it yet, Victor says the wax from hand-poured candles can be used as a moisturizer.
@bougiescentedcandles

 

This Black-owned collection of hand-poured candles was created by my friend Victor Ledbetter, whom I met in college. He sang in my wedding and has been a constant source of joy and inspiration. Victor is one of the guys I call on annually when I need cool ideas for the modern man when I want to buy my husband something extra special. He’s stylish, full of personality, offers sage advice and is just an all-around great guy.

These are a few candles that I’ve purchased so far:

  • Black Currant Absinthe

  • Lavender

  • Pineapple Sage

  • Pineapple & Eucalyptus - My husband and son really like this one.

Visit Bougie Scented Candles for his latest custom scents. If you’re not sure which to choose, email the team and ask for a personal recommendation from Victor.

CRATE + BARREL CANDLE & DIFFUSER

 

Coconut Milk Mango Diffuser - @crateandbarrel

 

I really love the color blush, and this candle and diffuser (sold separately) immediately stood out for me while visiting Crate + Barrel one rainy, Sunday afternoon. I wasn’t sure if the scent would actually exude beyond a quick sniff test, but I can honestly say the notes of coconut milk, mango, papaya, pineapple, sugarcane and Tahitian vanilla were lovely and I’d buy again. I kept the diffuser in my living room in an area that we walk through daily. Next time, I’ll probably place the diffuser on the console near our front door for a subtle yet welcoming vibe.

NEST CANDLES

 
 

Nest is a high-end candle line that meets my expectations.

 
 

It took me many years of walking past Nest candles and loving some of the scents before I actually forked over $$$ to try them out. So far, I’ve tried four that I can remember: Rose Noir & Oud, Driftwood & Chamomile, Grapefruit and Moroccan Amber.

  • Rose Noir & Oud
    I’m not normally big on rose scents, but this one was interesting. I bought the smallest size knowing that there might be a 50-50 chance that I wouldn’t like it. I placed it bedside for a feminine vibe contained in one part of the house.

  • Grapefruit
    I actually bought this for my husband’s grandmother but never got around to mailing…because I forgot where I put the gift bag! I found the bag months later and decided to just keep the candle since the holiday had passed. Turns out that Grapefruit is a nice smell when lit, so I’ll have to buy it again and actually take it to the post office. Charge it to my head and not my heart.

  • Driftwood & Chamomile
    LOVE.     I was intrigued by this one as it reminded me of being at a spa. Of the four Nest candles, Driftwood & Chamomile has been my favorite to date. I love this in the bedroom when I’m trying to relax at night, or in my bathroom when getting dressed for the day.

 
 

  • Moroccan Amber
    The latest in my lineup, I recently purchased Moroccan Amber spur of the moment while strolling through one of my favorite stores (because I can’t resist a chic store display that reflects the look and feel of my personal space). Moroccan Amber is subtle enough to not be overwhelming, but strong enough to make a statement. Burning as I type.

 
 

Nest candles are sold at many retailers, but I normally purchase from Bloomingdales or Blue Mercury. Whether buying for yourself or as a gift for others, it’s a great feeling when there’s a payoff to your splurge.

Lighters…

 

Since I’ve nearly burned my finger nails many a day, I thought I’d include this lighter, which I normally keep on hand.

Or, if you’re feeling fancy, here’s a USB Candle Lighter & Flashlight from Anthropologie Home. Bed, Bath & Beyond also has rechargeable options.

 

converse + connect

If you love candles like me, what’s your favorite scent(s) or candle line? Sharing is caring…

*Although cashmere and linen scents are not in this lineup, they are also two of my favorites when I can find them!



life+styleAyanna WigginsScents3 Comments