Let me set the mood. Picture a rainy Sunday, fuzzy socks on my feet, a warm drink in hand, and the soft flicker of a candle that smells like vanilla heaven melting away all my worries. That, my friends, is what I call peak living.
My love affair with candles didn’t start small. No, it began with a dramatic sniff of a pumpkin spice candle at the store one October and spiraled into a full-blown obsession involving a dedicated candle cabinet, a wax melt drawer, and the occasional “hide the receipt” moment when new ones magically appear in the cart. Oops
Candles are more than just home decor for me: they’re therapy in a jar. Whether I’m cleaning (aka speed-shuffling things into closets before guests arrive), writing blog posts, or just trying to pretend I’ve got my life together, lighting a candle instantly transforms my space into a calming, cozy sanctuary.
My Favorite Scents (And What They Say About Me)
Vanilla Bean Anything
This scent says “I bake cookies in my sleep” and “my home smells like love.” It’s sweet, warm, and makes people think I’ve got something in the oven, even when the oven hasn’t seen action since 2022.
Fresh Linen
Clean. Crisp. Smells like I actually did laundry. Spoiler: I probably didn’t. But it’s the illusion that counts.
Citrus and Sunshine
Perfect for mornings when I need a fake pep in my step. One whiff and I’m like, “Yes, I can fold laundry without crying.”
Lavender and Eucalyptus
This is my “Do Not Disturb” candle. I light it during bubble baths, face masks, and anytime I want the world to leave me alone for 15 minutes.
Campfire or Leather
For when I want to feel fancy, rustic, or like I’m in a cabin in the woods… instead of on the couch with snacks and Netflix.
Candle Care 101 (So You Don’t Burn Down the House)
Believe it or not, there’s an art to candle burning. Here are a few hard-earned lessons from someone who’s definitely overdone it once or twice
Trim the Wick
Before every burn Keep the flame controlled and prevent smoky drama. Scissors work fine, but wick trimmers make you feel like a candle boss.
First Burn is the Most Important
Let the wax melt all the way to the edge on the first light to avoid tunneling. A tunneled candle is a sad candle.
Snuff, Don’t Blow
Blowing out candles can cause smoke clouds that smell like disappointment. Use a snuffer or dip the wick into the wax with a tool or let’s be real, a bent paperclip.
Store with Lids On
Keeps dust and random scents out. Also, it’s a great excuse to buy those fancy lidded candles that look like mini art pieces.
Where I Get My Candle Fix
I’m not picky. Okay, I am, but I’m also a bargain hunter. Here are some of my go-to spots
TJ Maxx, Marshalls, HomeGoods
The candle aisle is a danger zone. I never leave with just one.
Small Batch and Etsy Shops
Handmade means extra love and uniqueness.
Target
Their seasonal candles make me lose all self-control.
Bath and Body Works
Candle Day is a holiday in my house. I set an alarm.
Final Flame Thoughts
Candles may not solve all life’s problems, but they do make everything smell better while you figure things out. They’re little glowing reminders to slow down, breathe in something sweet, and enjoy the moment, even if the laundry’s still piled up and dinner’s coming out of a box.
So if anyone asks why I need another candle, the answer is simple
Because this one smells like joy. And I collect joy like it’s going out of style.
