Festive Flames: Unwrapping the Magic of Holiday Scents and Décor

In the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, when joy fills the air, there is one thing we can all agree on – the power of a candle. They are a decorative staple and make an excellent gift, but they can also provide you with some relaxation this time of year. Tired from shopping or stressed out – take a bath and light a scented candle.   

Scents like lavender are known for their calming properties that help induce sleep and lower stress. Lemon is clarifying and aids with concentration. For a more holiday feel, you can use cinnamon or peppermint to bring warm scents into your home. Cinnamon promotes focus and decreases mental fog while peppermint heightens creativity and effective thinking.  

There are a variety of candle waxes to choose from whether you’re shopping for yourself or giving a candle as a gift. Paraffin is the most popular wax for good reason, as it holds fragrance extremely well.  Soy wax candles offer a slow burn, extending their burn time and beeswax naturally adds a sweet aroma to the candle scent as it burns. Regardless of which wax you pick; they are all safe to use, burn clean and have eco-friendly options. 

As it is the gift giving season, we are seeing lots of nostalgic smelling candles – from gingerbread to hot cocoa. Major scent trends this holiday season include food or brand specific scented candles. Whether it be an eggnog scented candle, or the pick of your favorite celebrity – buy candles to feel comfy, cozy, and nostalgic this holiday season.  

When it comes to décor, candles are a timeless holiday tradition. Grab a rainbow of colors for your Menorah, use traditional representative colors for Kwanza or branch out with some sturdy pillars for the Advent wreath. We are seeing lots of reds, greens and whites this season for home décor, which will match any decorations you already have. If you want to add greenery to bring the outdoors in, go for pine, balsam, and cedar – all are everlasting scents. Don’t forget you can utilize pillars, votives and tealight candles as part of your décor and include hurricanes or lanterns on your front porch to welcome visitors.  

As you decorate for the holidays and share time with your loved ones – use candles to relax, explore different waxes and scents, and give the gift that will keep giving past the holiday season.