7 Clean and Fragrant Homesick Candles for the Bathroom

Without a doubt, the bathroom is the most essential and functional room in your home. It’s a room you’re guaranteed to visit throughout the day, and a room your guests are likely to see during their stay. So, of course, we want our bathrooms to smell fresh and inviting. Whether it’s an en suite where you go through your daily routine, your personal home spa where you enjoy a soak in the tub or a guest bathroom typically reserved for company, you’ll want every bathroom in your home to provide a pleasant sensory experience. To effortlessly perfume your powder rooms every day, freshen up your bathrooms with these clean and fragrant Homesick candles.  For Your Everyday Bathroom: Refreshing and Relaxing Scents  Between the time you spend getting ready in the morning and the time you spend preparing to turn in at night, your bathroom is a part of your daily routine. And since you regularly spend a good portion of your day in this room, you’ll definitely want this space to be filled with a fresh, pleasant scent. Switch between our perfect everyday, refreshing and relaxing aromatherapy candles to enhance your daily bathroom routine–morning and night.  Morning Refresh: Make getting out of bed and preparing for the day ahead a little brighter with a refreshing citrus-scented candle. Energizing notes of grapefruit and lemon will awaken your senses, while floral jasmine sweetens up your morning routine.  Evening Unwind: Green tea and lavender form the perfect aromatic pair in our Evening Unwind candle. Whether your nighttime routine is quick and easy or involves a complex multi-step skincare ritual, you’ll want to linger in your bathroom just a little longer to enjoy these soothing scents.  For Your Home Spa: Luxurious and Restorative Aromas Even if the bathroom you’ve designated as your home spa doesn’t have a sauna or facials and massages on tap, you can still make your bathroom feel and smell like a self-care sanctuary.  Make your home smell like a spa with restorative and rejuvenating scents that make lounging in the tub with a face mask feel like a five-star luxury retreat.   Miami Candle: Pamper yourself with a quick spa trip to the coastal city of Miami. Relax and let go of any tension as you enjoy the stress-relieving scent of lavender blended with tropical notes of coconut and sandy shores. Our Miami Candle is sure to enhance all of your me-time moments.  The Hamptons: Escape from the hectic pace of everyday life with the scents of New York City’s summer getaway. Fresh notes of white linen, mineral springs and lily of the valley evoke the feeling of slipping into a plush spa robe.  Love Candle: Indulge in some self-love with the sweet and calming aromas of jasmine and rose. Rounded out with the clean and rejuvenating scent of lemon, this floral candle is the perfect fragrance to light as you soak in the tub. The only other thing you need is a good book and a glass of rosé.  For Your Guest Bathroom: Fresh and Revitalizing Fragrances  Say goodbye to musty and damp odors in a not-often-used spare bathroom. Instead, greet your guests with fresh fragrances by conveniently keeping scented candles in any bathroom company might use. When you’re expecting guests, be sure to safely light one of our clean, fragrant candles in any of the bathrooms they may visit to refresh the room with a pleasant scent.  New Home Candle: Make your bathroom smell brand-new with this clean citrus candle. A fragrance that reminds you of fresh-out-of-the-laundry linens and the citrusy-scent of a just-scrubbed space, this candle will instantly freshen up any guest bathroom.  Southern California Candle: Crisp scents of orange and lemon, a refreshing splash of saltwater and a botanical blend of rose and jasmine combine to make up our sea breeze and citrus Southern California Candle. This bright, clean fragrance is perfect for perfuming your guest bathrooms, providing company with a sensory escape to a sunny day at the beach.   Refresh Your Bathrooms With a Clean, New Scent  Give your bathrooms a lift with bright, fresh and fragrant scented candles. Opt for refreshing and relaxing aromas that complement your daily routine, restorative scents to upgrade your home spa experience and clean fragrances to refresh your guest bathrooms. Candles are an effortless way to spruce up these spaces, make your house a little homier and fill your day-to-day with happiness-inspiring scents.    

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7 Homesick Scents That Are Perfect for Your Next Bedroom Candle

Our bedrooms are by far the most personal and intimate spaces in our homes. The bedroom is where we go to unwind, where we go to get some shut-eye and where we wake up to greet the morning. Your bedroom is where you end each night and begin every day. When you think about it like that, you’ll realize how important it is that this space is as dreamy as it is refreshing, as relaxing as it is energizing. But how do you strike the perfect balance between a room that lulls you to sleep and a room that gets you ready to take on the new day? It’s all about creating the perfect ambiance through scent.  When it’s time to turn in for the night, soothing scents like lavender, vanilla, jasmine and rose can help you doze off with less tossing and turning and actually enhance your sleep quality, too. And when the sun comes up, citrus scents like lemon and grapefruit, or the invigorating aroma of peppermint, can inspire you to rise and shine.  As the purpose of our bedrooms change throughout the day, so should the scents we use to set the mood. This is why Homesick has you covered, with the relaxing and restorative scented candles you’ll love having on your nightstand.  Scents for a Good Night’s Snooze  After a long day, there’s nothing better than climbing into bed, snuggling under the blankets and letting your heavy eyelids finally rest. This is why it’s so essential to create a cozy atmosphere that lets you easily settle into a deep slumber. Whether you have the whole bed to yourself or are sharing the covers with a partner, these scents are guaranteed to set the perfect nighttime mood in your bedroom. Just make sure to blow out the wick before you doze off!  Evening Unwind: This green tea candle perfectly sets the scene for a better night’s sleep, as studies have shown that the scent of this brew can have relaxing and stress-alleviating effects. Layered with lavender, this dreamy fragrance might just become an essential element in your nighttime routine.   Nighttime Slumber: Soothing notes of coconut, cream and vanilla will surround you in the same warmth and comfort as your favorite blanket. A wonderfully relaxing candle for sleep, this serene scent is sure to help you catch some ZZZs.  France Candle: Comforting scents of lavender and vanilla meet the heady and full-bodied fragrance of red wine. In this sensual France candle, you’ll find a blend of romantic and robust aromas, making this candle perfect for kindling a spark. Love Candle: Head to bed with those warm and fuzzy affectionate feelings that are sure to inspire lovely dreams. Notes of relaxing jasmine and rose complement toasty sandalwood, making our floral Love candle ideal for a cozy night spent snuggled under the covers.  Aromas for a Morning Wake-Up Call  Start your day energized and wide-awake with scents that will keep you from hitting the snooze button. Light one of these refreshing candles while you’re getting ready for the day ahead and enjoy a sensory energy boost without even having to leave your bedroom.  Morning Refresh: This zippy citrus candle evokes that revitalizing feeling of an early a.m. shower, as the water wakes you up from your half-asleep stupor. Bright, fresh scents of grapefruit and lemon are exactly what you need to kickstart your morning.  Sunrise Coffee: Fuel your morning with Homesick’s signature Sunrise Coffee blend. Bold espresso is enriched with steamed milk, layered with sweet whipped cream and finished off with a hint of energizing lemon. Montana Candle: Wake up to the fresh and vibrant aromas of Montana’s wide open plains. While invigorating top notes of lemon, peppermint and cinnamon are sure to wake you up, earthy mid notes of cedar and sandalwood, and rich base notes of amber and musk, will keep you warm even after you throw off the covers. Candles for Creating the Perfect Bedroom Ambiance Whether you’re winding down in the evening or welcoming a new day at dawn, the right scent can set the perfect mood in your bedroom, putting you in the best state of mind for either a good night’s rest or an energized morning. Curate your own collection of bedroom candles and light the different scents throughout the day that correspond with your internal clock.  

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8 Homesick Candles That Make the Best Hostess Gifts

The ultimate hostess–She’s the one who coordinates the get-togethers that guests gush over long after the party’s over. The hostess with the mostest who expertly plans every event she puts together–from the cocktails and cuisine to a perfectly curated playlist. You know any shindig she throws is guaranteed to be a great time, and you know you need an equally amazing hostess gift to show your appreciation. So, the next time you receive an invite from the ultimate hostess in your life, check out these bliss-inspiring Homesick candles perfect for a busy hostess to enjoy and unwind with after another fun and flawlessly organized occasion. Select Simple, Well-Loved Scents  Universally pleasing aromas like citrus, lavender and vanilla are great go-to scents to gift, which is why you can find these and other beloved scents in the perfect everyday candles. Homesick’s Daily Collection includes these familiar, sure-to-please scents that set the perfect mood for your day whenever you light their wicks, making them a fantastic favor for your hostess.  Sunrise Coffee: Is there any better way to start the day than with piping hot, freshly ground coffee served, of course, in your favorite mug? It’s the energy boost you crave each morning as you prepare to seize the day. But did you know that just the aroma of a cup of Joe alone can have some pretty powerful effects on performance? All the more reason to rise and shine with an espresso-scented candle, especially for a hostess gearing up for her next big event.     Morning Refresh: After a bustling evening hosting friends and family, your hostess will definitely be in need of some re-energizing. And vibrant notes of lemon and zesty grapefruit found in this bright, revitalizing candle are guaranteed to be the perfect pick-me-ups.  Afternoon Adventure: A great hostess is always seeking inspiration for her next soirée, and taking an afternoon adventure may just be the best place to start. With aromas of clean mountain air, cozy cashmere vanilla and toasty firewood, this fresh-scented candle will feel like a sensory change of scenery.  Evening Unwind: Every hostess deserves some rest and relaxation, and calming scents like lavender and green tea make it easy to wind down after a long day. Homesick’s Evening Unwind candle is reminiscent of nights spent contently curled under a blanket with a great book and a soothing cup of tea.  Nighttime Slumber: A good night’s sleep is essential for recharging, and the right scents can help you calm your body and mind before you hit the hay. Soft, tranquil notes of coconut and vanilla in this bedtime fragrance provide an ideal aromatic atmosphere for a restful snooze.  Choose a Cocktail-Inspired Candle  For the hostess who often doubles as a mixologist, a candle that smells like it was poured straight from the cocktail shaker might just be the perfect gift. And this assortment of summery cocktail candles (complete with Homesick’s signature recipes!) is sure to remind your host of the laughs and stories shared over a couple of concoctions from the bar cart.  Poolside Pina: Evoking memories of sunny pool parties spent lounging on social media-worthy inflatable floats with a refreshing frozen cocktail in hand, Homesick’s Poolside Pina will have your hostess feeling like she’s back at a summer get-together, sipping on this tangy, tropical drink.  Sunshine Spritz: Sparkling cocktails are always ideal for a special occasion, and this fruity, fizzy spritz-inspired candle is fitting for a just as bubbly hostess. Zippy notes of pomegranate, oranges and limoncello settle into a base note of Prosecco. We can practically hear the glasses clinking in a toast to the host.  Midsummer Mojito: The zesty scents of freshly squeezed lemons and limes meet a cooling hint of mint, all grounded in a generous splash of rum. A refreshing mojito candle is a lovely libation scent to hit refresh with following a busy day of entertaining.  Give the Personal Gift of a State-Scented Candle  Whether it’s the home state your hostess grew up in, a favorite vacation destination or even the place they call home now, our state-scented candles can be nostalgic and meaningful gifts that come with their own uniquely personal memories. And with a whole collection of state and city-inspired candles to choose from, you’re sure to find one the ultimate hostess in your life will love.  Gift Your Hostess with Scents That Show Your Thanks  For the hostess who plans the best parties, pours the perfect cocktails and always ensures her guests are having a great time, a thoughtful gift is the best way to show your appreciation. Opt for a classic well-loved scent, a candle inspired by her signature drink or an aromatic reminder of her favorite place. No matter what you choose, it’s a gift guaranteed to delight.  

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How to Master Your Essential Oil Diffuser Like an Aromatherapist

Essential oil diffusers are electric devices that turn aromatic oils into diffused mists that fill the room with a fragrant aroma. They have many benefits, from enhancing the atmosphere with pleasant scents to helping lift the mood and encourage relaxation. There are multiple methods of diffusion and oil-blending, so learning the safe and proper way to diffuse will help you get the most out of your oils. Have you noticed an uptick in all things essential oils? This super-soothing aromatherapy trend seems to be everywhere, and we’re living for it. If you’ve contributed to this fast-growing interest, you’re probably already an aromatherapy pro. But if you’re a newbie in search of amazing tips and tricks for diffusion mastery, this is the guide for you.  Interestingly, though it seems like we’re suddenly seeing them everywhere, essential oils and oil diffusion are by no means modern concepts. In fact, they have been used for thousands of years in religious ceremonies, healing and more. Today, dreamy smelling essential oils are most often diffused to encourage stress relief and calm, but there are so many reasons why you should think about integrating them into your routine. THE BENEFITS OF AN ESSENTIAL OIL DIFFUSER So why have these oils remained popular for thousands of years? The answer is complex, but it comes down to the belief that breathing in certain aromas can lead to improved mental and physical health. Though there’s no evidence that aromatherapy can cure anything, there is no doubt that it can help you sink into a certain state of mind and take you to a whole new place entirely. Here are some of the top essential oil diffuser benefits to consider before investing in your first ultrasonic essential oil diffuser. It Boosts Your Mood—Though there is a lot of misinformation out there about essential oils and mental health, one scientifically proven benefit is that they can help make you feel happy. In fact, a study conducted at Ohio State University showed that lemon oil had the power to lift the mood in study participants. So the next time you’re feeling a bit blue, go ahead and break out something lemony. It Helps Create a Relaxing Ambiance—Much like essential oils can make you feel cheerful, so too can they help you sink into a state of deep relaxation and maybe even get better sleep. Oils of lavender, rose, bergamot, orange, chamomile and frankincense have long been used for their tranquilizing effects. Try our orange and bergamot essential oil blend if you’re looking to totally chill. It Doubles as a Humidifier—One reason why many aromatherapists prefer ultrasonic diffusing (which uses electricity to power subtle vibrations, which agitate water and trigger the oils to disperse) is because they help introduce great-smelling moisture into the air, making them amazing for use in dry, air-conditioned rooms or when you’re feeling under the weather in the winter. It Makes the Room Smell Great without a Flame—Don’t get us wrong—we’re obsessed with candles (it’s kind of our thing). But we recognize that not everyone is comfortable having an open flame in the house, especially when there are pets and little ones around. But everybody loves stuff that smells good, so diffusers are a great alternative. The ultrasonic diffuser also edges out other types of diffusers because it’s relatively low-maintenance and easy to clean. It Preserves the Quality of the Oil—Unlike other types of diffusion, modern-day ultrasonic diffusers are unique in that they help preserve the original chemical structure of the oils. Other styles heat—and sometimes even burn—the oil molecules, which can destroy the structure and make them less fragrant. It Takes You Somewhere Else Entirely—When you burn that holiday essential oil blend, you’ll automatically be transported to your grandma’s house on Christmas Day, sugar cookies and all. Break out the beach cottage oil blend and sink into vivid memories of childhood summers. Aromas have the amazing power of being able to rustle up your entire catalog of feelings, so they’re ideal for all you homesick, nostalgic and reminiscent types out there. HOW TO USE AN ESSENTIAL OIL DIFFUSER Clearly, there are tons of great reasons to invest in a high-quality essential oil diffuser and a stash of mood-boosting scents, but you may still feel confused by exactly how the diffuser works or how to get started. An ultrasonic oil diffuser plugs into the wall with a standard electrical outlet, which triggers a ceramic disc inside to vibrate. This vibration breaks down the essential oils into teeny-tiny particles, which are then blended with water and dispersed into the air as aromatic mist. It may seem a tad complicated, but don’t fret. A good essential oil diffuser will do all of this work for you, with very minimal setup and effort from you. Generally, most ultrasonic essential oil diffusers work in the same way. Here’s how to use one. 1. Set it Up—First things first: set it up! You’ll need to position your diffuser somewhere within close proximity to a wall outlet. We recommend placing it in your living room, bedroom or anywhere you like to relax. Place the diffuser on a side table or nightstand, preferably on a tray, at least two feet above the floor. This will help ensure that moisture is properly distributed into the air. 2. Fill Up the Tank—Because the diffuser relies on water to help create a nice-smelling mist, you will routinely have to fill it up with water. Our  diffuser has a clearly marked fill line so you always know exactly how much water to use. We recommend avoiding regular tap water because it can cause mineral buildup inside the diffuser, compromising its ability to work properly over time. Your best bet is to use filtered water in your diffuser. 3. Add the Oils—Now for the fun part, adding the oils! First, remove the lids to all of your oils and give them a great, big whiff. Just kidding! That part is totally optional. Add as many drops of oil as desired. You will generally want to add anywhere between three and fifteen  drops for a 100-milliliter diffuser depending on strength, but don’t be afraid to experiment until you come up with the perfect amount. Want to blend two or three oils? Check out the blending tips below!  4. Adjust the Settings—The great thing about modern essential oil diffusers is that they can be tailored to a wide range of preferences. For example, our Ultrasonic Aroma Diffuser has two selectable spray modes: a pulse or a constant stream. It also has an LED light that provides soft illumination and can function as a nightlight, if desired. Again, finding your ideal settings may take a bit of experimentation, but it’s well worth it when you land on the right ones.  HOW TO BLEND ESSENTIAL OILS Okay, now for the part that will make you feel like a professional aromatherapist with years of experience, even if this is your very first bottle. To diffuse like an expert, you’re going to want to learn a thing or two about blending so you find the right aroma for every situation and ambiance. How do you blend essential oils, you ask? Well, it’s somewhat of an art, one that takes lots of trial and error. But it’s definitely one you want to learn how to master, especially if you want to create completely customized scents that play into your preferred vibe. Maybe you want a cinnamon, coffee and clove essential oil blend to warm you up in the morning or want to design your own essential oil blend for a clean smell when you’re doing chores on Saturday morning.  To get started, invest in a collection of pure essential oils that you can mix to create one-of-a-kind aromas (sometimes called synergies or blends). Choose scents that complement one another in terms of both the scent’s qualities and the feeling it elicits—for example, if you’re going for something soothing, don’t pair calming chamomile with uplifting lemon. There are lots of readily available essential oil recipes you’ll find online. Each blend should have strong top, middle and base notes to create a harmonious, well-rounded balance.  Top notes are the first thing you’ll smell, yet they’re usually the lightest of the three and the ones that disappear the quickest. Common top notes include lemon, bergamot and other citruses as well as herbs like sage and lavender.  Middle notes or “heart notes” are the second thing you’ll smell. These notes are generally marked by their more mellow, smooth scent. Some common middle notes include florals like rose and lavender and spices like black pepper. Base notes are the final thing you’ll smell within your blend. Mixing with the middle notes, base notes create the primary scent of the synergy. Some common base notes include earthy scents like cedarwood, musk, amber and patchouli. Because they are not intended for direct use on the skin, these oil blends do not require the addition of a carrier oil, and you can simply drop them directly into the oil well in your diffuser or mix them beforehand. If you’re not particularly keen on creating your own concoctions from scratch, don’t worry. There are lots of pre-blended essential oil options that will work beautifully in your aromatherapy diffuser. HOW TO CLEAN YOUR DIFFUSER Last but not least, a little bit of light maintenance. We recommend giving your aroma diffuser a good wipe-down after every five or six uses. This will help ensure that every single pure or blended drop you use will smell exactly how it’s intended, without any indication of previous scents you’ve “burned.” It will also help keep your diffuser working at its best for longer.  To clean, make sure you completely shut off and unplug the diffuser before beginning. Wipe out the oil reservoir with a damp cotton cloth, making sure to get every drop. If you see some residue remaining, you can use a cotton ball dipped in alcohol to get rid of the buildup. Rinse the reservoir and allow it to completely dry before using it again.  STOP AND SMELL THE AROMAS If you’re ready to sink into the great, big world of essential oils, you’re in for a treat! All you need is a high-quality aromatherapy diffuser and the oils of your choice. With the right collection, you’ll build a library that helps you get into any state of mind. And with Homesick essential oil blends, you can use your oils to take you all over the world, from France to Long Island to Northern California.

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7 Gifts for New Neighbors (That They’ll Actually Enjoy)

As much as we love a good old-fashioned casserole, there’s something extra-special about surprising a brand-new neighbor with a present they can use over a prolonged period of time. Whether it’s something that wholly embodies the neighborhood or something that helps them get cozy in their new space, your new neighbor will certainly appreciate the thought of a welcome gift. Accompany your hand-delivered casserole with one of the following gifts to enchant any new resident! A State- or City-Themed Candle—This one is appropriate if your new neighbor has relocated from elsewhere. Give the gift of one of our richly scented state candles to help them settle into their new home surrounded by signature, regional aromas. From the sweet but earthy musk of Northern California to the energizing citrus smell of Florida, these candles are always crowd-pleasers.  A Gift Card to a Local Hotspot—Easy yet thoughtful, this gift helps acquaint transplants with the area by introducing them to the hotspots around town. Even better if it’s a locals-preferred restaurant or coffee shop in the neighborhood. If you really want to get creative, put together a list of your favorite spots to eat and drink and ask them to join you on an outing to one of them. A Baked Good or Sweet from a Local Bakery—Nothing says “welcome home!” quite like a dozen cupcakes, donuts or pastries. Local bakeries are a wonderful place to get unique, regional gifts to share, since you usually can’t get them anywhere else in the world. Whether you go with a bakery that’s undiscovered and under-the-radar or massively popular, you can count on big smiles from any new resident when you hand-deliver something sweet.  A Piece of Local Artwork—Every town has at least one beloved local artist, and if you’ve got a newbie on your hands, you can’t go wrong with this gift. Ideally, it will be something useful and universally pleasing, such as a carved bowl or a ceramic mug. We love this approach because it mixes the housewarming theme with local flair in an effortless fashion. A Candle That Smells Like Home—Looking for a great gift for someone who has moved to a different part of town? Consider giving them something they can use in their home, like a fresh and inviting New Home candle. This is the perfect housewarming present for new neighbors that you don’t know very well yet, since it’s pretty much guaranteed to please everyone. It features an aroma profile reminiscent of fresh linens, clean air and a big, empty house.  A Gift Card for Food Delivery—Everyone who has ever moved knows that it could quite literally be weeks before you get around to stocking the fridge, so giving the gift of dinner is always highly appreciated. It’s even better when you don’t even have to leave the house to get it. With all kinds of delivery apps available these days—and even some restaurants offering their own delivery services—you’ll find something perfect for your new friend. This is also a great strategy because it lets your recipient choose whatever they want to eat. A Creative Gift Basket—Gift baskets are the perfect way to welcome anyone to the neighborhood, but they can, at times, be a bit generic. Instead of your typical fruit-and-cheese basket, get creative and put together an option designed specifically for new homes. We love the idea of giving a new homeowner a basket filled with cleaning supplies, some easy snacks to munch on as they move and a bottle of wine. Why Give Gifts to New Neighbors? It may seem a bit old-fashioned, but handing out housewarming gifts to your new neighbors helps build a strong sense of community in your special little corner of the world. Knowing your neighbors, and maybe even building up a friendship over time, will help foster strong feelings of safety, security and happiness throughout the neighborhood. It’s also, quite simply, the neighborly thing to do!  

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How to Make Your Home Smell Like a Spa

It doesn’t matter if it’s the spa at Canyon Ranch or the spa in your living room while you’re watching Netflix, one component is the same: the heavenly aromas that waft through the air while you’re enjoying a massage, a manicure or some light meditation. A spa day is all about helping you sink into a deep state of joy and relaxation while you check your day-to-day stressors at the door. The goal is to re-enter real-life feeling more peaceful, productive and positive.  Here’s how the best spas in the world transform basic spaces into wonderlands of wellness (hint: it’s all about the smells). 1. Build a Library of Relaxing Scents—With the help of aromatherapy experts, scientists and our first-hand experience (tough job, we know), here’s the ultimate list of spa smells you need to make your space feel totally blissed out: Chamomile—Just a quick whiff of a chamomile essential oil or candle and you’ll physically feel all your stressors melt away. Not that we didn’t know this already, but studies show that chamomile has therapeutic effects and can even help ease symptoms of anxiety.  Lavender—Much like chamomile, lavender is believed to offer a subtle anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) and sedative effect, which will pacify you and make you feel completely at ease. Burn a lavender, rosemary and moss candle for a relaxed, earthy vibe in your at-home spa.  Sandalwood—Have you been looking for an excuse to buy that lemon and sandalwood candle you’ve been eyeing? Go for it—it’s for your mental health! Sandalwood is a smooth yet woody oil that offers a transformative effect, making you feel like you’re somewhere else entirely, whether that be the beach or forest, to help you fight off stress. Cucumber—Sure, it’s mainly about the floral, herby and earthy when it comes to crafting a solid spa scent, but don’t forget the refreshed, invigorated feel you come away with after a facial or a soaking treatment. Pepper in some fresh cucumber or citrus to recreate this effect. 2. Craft Custom Essential Oil Blends—There’s a reason why so many relaxation experts recommend essential oils for aromatherapy. One main benefit is that you can build your own one-of-a-kind scents to help you craft the ideal ambiance for your home spa. Play around with earthy, tranquil scents and mix in pops of citrus and flowers until you’ve nailed one that feels just right.3. Strategically Place Your Diffusers—As tempting as it is, resist the urge to crank up your aromatherapy diffuser to the highest possible setting in the middle of the living room. Consider practicing passive diffusion—placing a few drops of essential oil in a tissue, cotton ball, etc.—in bathrooms, hallways and corners to pepper in soothing aromas throughout your home and then using your diffuser in the main areas. The key is to gently cloak the space in a lightly scented mist, not to pump it in by the bucketful so that it’s overpowering, irritating or distracting. 4. Pepper in Some Candles—Oils are amazing, but there is no real substitute for a richly scented candle at the spa. The soft, flickering glow of a candle’s flame works with the aroma to help gently coax you into a tranquil state. Whether it’s our citrus and mint Montana candle or something featuring fresh, uplifting aromas, you can count on candles to help you craft the ideal ambiance.5. Pick Your Beauty Products Carefully—In addition to the aromas that we add ourselves, spas have their own natural smells that make them feel special. Choose lotions, creams, serums and massage oils that fit into your aroma strategy and add something pleasant to the atmosphere. Where candles and oils help ease the mind into relaxation, great-smelling products help keep it in that deeply peaceful state. The Self-Care Heroes As far as we’re concerned, nobody deserves the designation of self-care MVP as much as candles and aromatherapy oils. There’s simply nothing else in the world that does a better job of setting the stage and getting you into a chill state of mind, so don’t be shy! Go crazy with the candles and oils until your entire house smells like a five-star spa. 

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8 Gifts to Help You Welcome the Fall Season

Fall feels like fresh starts and schoolbooks, football games and bonfires with friends. It smells like crisp apples and clean air and tastes like pumpkin pie with a hint of whipped cream sweetness.  New seasons are cause for celebration: They bring about welcome change, not only in the air, but also in us. As summer’s heavy heat begins to lift and our freckles fade, it’ll soon be time to trade in flip-flops for sneakers, beach towels for infinity scarves and sand-filled frolics for cozy nights in by the fire. Whether you’re treating yourself or a loved one, here are eight gifts to help you welcome the fall season. 1. A Cozy Blanket to Snuggle Up in When the temperatures start to dip, what’s more comforting than the feeling of being wrapped up inside a soft, plush blanket? It serves up memories of childhood snuggles and pillow forts in the form of a big, toasty hug. Find a chunky knit blanket that will surely keep you warm–even on the chilliest of autumn nights. 2. A Romantic Book to Warm Your Heart  There’s something so extremely charming about flipping through the pages of a good book while listening to the crackle of a fireplace on a cozy night in. Fall is just as perfect a time to reread an old favorite as it is to find fresh inspiration. If you’re looking for a new love story to give as a gift or read for yourself, Penguin Random House’s list of the best romance books to read this fall is a great place to start. 3. A Candle That Smells Like the Perfect Autumn Day Featuring top notes of apple and cinnamon, mid notes of hay and clove and a base of vanilla and tonka bean, this hand-poured New Hampshire candle embodies everything worth loving about the fall. Whether you’re from the Granite State or not, this candle evokes memories of warm apple cider, cozy hayrides in cool sunshine and fresh air filled with vanilla sweetness. 4. Grown-Up Notebooks That Bring You Back You never forget the feeling of leaving the summer behind each year as you approached that big yellow bus on the first day of school. It’s a mix of butterflies and excitement, an overwhelming energy filled with anticipation. Thankfully, you don’t need to be headed to the classroom to enjoy a bit of school supply nostalgia this season. Classic Moleskine notebooks are way more chic than the ones you had in grade school and will certainly keep you organized while bringing you back to simpler times. 5. Slipper Socks That Soothe Your Soles After a long day, nothing is more relaxing than switching into sweatpants, heating up a fresh cup of cocoa and kicking up your feet. Keep your toes toasty in an elevated yet affordable pair of cozy slipper socks from Fuzzy Babba. The pom-pom style is so fun to wear that it’ll make you wish you never had to put on real shoes again. 6. A Fragrance Oil That Smells Like Cider and Donuts  Bring the sweetness of apple cider, simmering coffee and just-baked donuts to your home with a fragrance oil that smells like a perfect autumn weekend spent with family and friends. Notes of cinnamon and clove make this Massachusetts fragrance oil the ideal balance of spicy and sweet. It’s a scent worth savoring all year long. 7. The Pumpkin Spice Latte Ahhhh, what’s fall without the taste of a little pumpkin spice swirled around in cinnamon and nutmeg? Rumor has it, seasonal offerings from Dunkin’ Donuts are already being spotted in stores and the infamous Pumpkin Spice Latte, or PSL, is set to follow soon. Treat yourself or someone you love to the soothing warmth and syrupy sweet flavor of this seasonal classic. 8. A Pair of Pumpkin Earrings If you really, really want to lean into the season, a perfect pair of pumpkin earrings will do just the trick. Tuck your hair back and let the crisp autumn air tickle your ears in these seasonal rose gold studs. They’re playful enough to make you smile, yet delicate enough to not seem like you’re screaming “I LOVE FALL!!!” from the mountain tops (even if you absolutely are on the inside). Ready or not, fall’s a-coming. Give this colorful, romantic season the warm welcome it deserves with gifts that remind you of freshly fallen leaves, crisp air against your cheeks and the love of family and friends.  

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Our Favorite Home State Candles from the Southeast

If you’ve spent much time soaking up the vacation-ready climate of the American Southeast, it probably doesn’t surprise you to know that this corner of the United States is home to several of the country’s most beloved tourist hotspots. Florida ranks second on the list of most-visited states and hosted a record number of tourists—126.1 million!—last year. With their year-round warmth and hundreds of days of sunshine each year, South Carolina and Georgia also top the list of popular spots for sun-loving vacationers. But if you’re one of the millions of people who call a state in the Southeast home, you know there’s a whole lot more to this vibrant region than just its pleasant subtropical climate, thousands of miles of white sand coastline and magical theme parks where lifelong memories are forged. The things that make this area of the country so special aren’t as obvious. It’s the lovingly coiled sweetgrass baskets of the South Carolina Lowcountry, the belly-dropping twists and turns of the Blue Ridge Parkway, the enchantingly shady coves created by bending Live Oaks. These are the things that make the Southeast such a special place to call home. At Homesick, it’s our mission to pour your hyper-specific memories into dreamy location-inspired candles that take you back home. We harvest an area’s local charm, food, landscape and personality to make every candle smell authentic to a certain place. If you’re new to our nostalgia-inducing candles, we invite you to light one of our Southeast candles and enjoy traveling through this region by way of smoky forests, citrusy fruit groves and breezy beaches (plus a dash of bourbon and barbecue for good measure). SOUTHEAST SPLENDOR: HOMESICK CANDLES FROM THIS REGION Alabama—For natives of the Yellowhammer State, Alabama comes first in more ways than just alphabetically. This is a state rich with ecological diversity, from natural bridges, caverns and craters to the wide, white sand beaches where tourists and locals stretch along the Gulf Coast. For candle-makers like us, this level of diversity means big-time scent potential in every jar of Alabama. To capture all the very best things about Alabama, we’ve added aromas of sweet blackberries, giant southern magnolias and nutty pecan to transport you to a sugary Southern summer. Light yours and you’ll smell the air after a warm-weather downpour mixed with the floral woodiness of a bright white magnolia tree and a big bite of grandma’s fresh-baked pecan pie.   Florida—Home to Mickey, Miami and miles and miles of marshland, the Sunshine State is one of the most beloved states in the country. As the third most populous one—home to over 21 million residents—Florida provides relaxation and refuge for families, retirees and sun-seekers of every age, so it’s no surprise that our citrusy Florida candle brings on the laid-back vibes and transports you to a tropical oasis in an instant. This candle starts with top notes of orange and bergamot to pay tribute to the fruity groves that dot the country and the coast (and to honor Florida’s official state fruit, the orange). It then melts into a scented swirl of mangrove wood and Spanish moss, finally finishing with vanilla and amber musk for a complete sweetness that takes you straight back to summer vacation as a child. Sweet, beachy and earthy—does it get any better? Georgia—Have you ever stopped and thought to yourself: What does Georgia smell like? Probably not, but if you’ve spent much time in this charming Southern sanctuary, then you’ll recognize the aromas from our Georgia candle right away. The medley of scents in this waxy wonder takes you on a total tour of the hotbed of Southern hospitality, from the charming roadside fruit stands to the unspoiled coastal islands. To us, Georgia smells like antebellum gardens with old, meandering magnolias and a juicy piece of peach pie made by hand deep in the country. With the top notes of peach, mid notes of magnolia and aster and base notes of white musk, this candle goes from bright, fruity and fresh to deep, musky and comforting, all in a matter of minutes. It’s a must-light for prideful Georgians, that’s for sure! Kentucky—The Kentucky Homesick Candle is no less nostalgia-inducing for current and one-time residents of the Southeast. But instead of the fruit, beaches and flowers of the aforementioned coastal states, this richly scented candle piles on the flavors of deep inland heritage, but (of course) with a very Southern flair. Think: fried chicken, horse races and bluegrass. Kentucky’s no delicate magnolia, but it sure smells like a daisy. How, you ask, do we put all of these traditional Kentucky components into a 13.75-ounce jar? It’s easy when you start with top notes of comfort food and whiskey! Light our Kentucky candle and become instantly transported thanks to pungent aromas of bourbon, cream, butter, praline, cedarwood, sugar, vanilla, tonka bean and musk. Even if you’re not a true-blue Kentuckian, this candle makes the perfect complement to your derby party. Louisiana—Sugar, Cajun spice and everything nice–that’s what Louisiana is made of. When you think about the flavor of certain states, none appears stronger than the culture medley of Louisiana. The deep South state is at its core full of authentic flavor, from the French-African-Spanish influences of New Orleans to the deep country charms of the bayous and farms. With all these bright aromas to draw from, our Louisiana candle totally captures the unique colors of the Creole State. With a single flick of the match, you’ll be transported home, starting with top notes of sweet potato and orange that make you think of a big family dinner in the summer or fall. Mid notes of magnolia and honeysuckle mingle with base notes of tonka bean, vanilla and musk to anchor this sweet creation deeply in the South. Mississippi—One of the things that makes our Mississippi candle so special is the fact that this Southeast state is known for how it smells, thanks to the sweet, citrusy magnolia tree which grows all over the state. The airy scent of calming waterfalls meets the undeniably fresh aroma of sweet cotton with this great-smelling creation. Anchored by supremely earthy undertones—hello, patchouli and cedarwood—this state candle, like the state itself, is truly multifaceted. Of course, we wouldn’t make a candle in honor of The Magnolia State without, of course, magnolia. But this candle starts out with top notes of bright lemon, lime and lavender, melting into a swirl of denim, desert flower, marine, patchouli and cedarwood. The base notes of vanilla, tonka bean, amber and musk provide a sweet and earthy base, leaving behind an aroma that will help you zone off into the heavily forested corners of the state. North Carolina—From the blue-gray vistas of the Blue Ridge region to the perfectly preserved white sand beaches at the tip of the Outer Banks, North Carolina brings natural splendor in every form. Tourists come to chug hoppy brews in Asheville, to get a taste of authentic barbecue in Lexington and to sip moonshine deep in the tobacco farmland. Naturally, our smoky North Carolina candle had to embody all of this and nothing less. To achieve the perfect North Carolina scent, we start with top notes of sweet blackberry and peach, honoring the many rows of fruit groves deep within the state’s rolling interior. Mid notes of cinnamon, clove, tobacco and barbecue quickly stir up memories of big family dinners, while base notes of tonka bean, sugar, vanilla and amber tie the place to the region as a whole, anchoring it perfectly in the Southeast. South Carolina—With its unique ability to straddle the line between unencumbered Southern charm and surprising sophistication, South Carolina embodies the Southeast region to perfection. Though it’s probably best known for the paradisiacal Atlantic beaches, marshy sea islands and colorful antebellum architecture, South Carolina has a rustic side that makes it feel distinctly down-to-earth and homey, even to its millions of tourists. South Carolina natives will have no trouble being transported back home with this masterpiece in wax! First, our South Carolina candle emits uplifting aromas of bergamot, grapefruit and lemon to highlight the fresh, fruity and relaxed vibes of a seaside summer. Next, scents of magnolia, tea and ylang bring you to the Lowcountry where you’ll feel like you’re sitting on a front porch shaded by Spanish moss, while base notes of magnolia and vanilla keep things spectacularly Southern. Tennessee—When we started developing our woodsy Tennessee candle, we wanted to hone in on the rich cultural heritage cultivated deep within The Volunteer State coupled with the unspoiled natural bounty that makes it such a gem. The pure, clear air atop the Great Smokies, the dense pine aromas of the Cherokee National Forest, the brown sugar and maple slow cooking in a pit somewhere in Memphis—there’s no shortage of smell-good stuff in Tennessee. We used all these unique components to create the nostalgia-inducing Tennessee candle, starting with top notes of whiskey, bergamot and lemon. These distinctly earthy aromas melt into a deep woodsiness with mid notes of magnolia, patchouli and sandalwood, ending on a natural note with spicy clove, smoky guaiacwood and signature musk. You’re getting a real tour of the entire state of Tennessee with this candle! HOW WE MAKE OUR CANDLES SMELL LIKE HOME Homesick Candles is an expert at capturing the feel of a place using high-quality candles. We do this by combining premium materials—including clean-burning 100 percent soy wax and highly fragrant oils—to create a unique mixture of warm, memory-inducing scents. You’ll find many of our state candles in three sizes: mini (2-ounce jar candles), which burn for up to 12 hours each; standard (13.75-ounce jar candles), which burn for up to 80 hours each; and large (27.5-ounce three-wick candles), which burn for up to 110 hours each. THE PERFECT GIFT FOR THE SOUTHEASTERNER These carefully crafted location candles make amazing gifts for anyone on your list who radiates Southeast state pride! Whether for the homesick Floridian, Georgian, Alabamian or anyone else, these delightful candles will undoubtedly elicit a smile when unwrapped. Give them as gifts for graduates, new homeowners, birthday celebrants and those moving away to help mark a special time and place in a loved one’s life. Check back often for more one-of-a-kind state and city candles by Homesick.

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9 Refreshingly Sweet Citrus-Scented Candles

When life gives you lemons…make lemon-scented candles. (Sorry, we had to.) But seriously, is there any scent family more likely to boost your mood than citrus? Lemons, limes, tangerines, oranges—give us all the tart and tangy stuff! Citrus evokes memories of sipping fresh-squeezed lemonade at the county fair, peeling juicy oranges on summer vacation and letting sticky popsicle juice drip down your shirt in the backyard. In other words, it triggers thoughts of sweet summertime and youthful jubilation, with a little pop of sour for good measure. If you love citrus, you’ll adore these fresh, joy-inducing Homesick candles that smell like they came handpicked straight from the grove. 1. New Home—A new home smells like fresh linen, cleaning supplies and pure, uncluttered bliss. This citrusy lime candle knows how to say “welcome home” with top notes of bright lime that fade into aromas of ocean, cedarwood, sandalwood and jasmine. It makes the perfect housewarming gift for any new homeowner. 2. Love—When you want to capture the feeling of true love, you have to figure out how to jar the thrill of butterflies, comfort and syrupy sweetness. The solution? Citrus, florals and herbs. This lovestruck lemon candle starts with happy, exciting notes of lemon and then fades into joyous mid notes of rose and peony and finally settles into a deeply comforting bouquet of jasmine and sandalwood. 3. Summer Camp—Designed to capture memories of green grass, tipping canoes and laughter among best friends, the Homesick Summer Camp candle is big on the warm-weather charm, featuring memory-inducing aromas of lemon, lime and grass. 4. Florida—Did you know that there are nearly 600,000 acres of citrus groves in Florida? Obviously, anything that’s supposed to smell like the Sunshine State should feature lots and lots of oranges. Coupled with earthy Spanish moss, mangrove wood and bergamot, this happy candle feels like being home on summer break. 5. Poolside Pina—Pineapple is almost as high on the list of the best summertime flavors as lemon and lime, and they sure make magic when put together. This happy cocktail-inspired candle mixes the mild sweetness of coconut water with the puckering tartness of lemon blossom, lime and pineapple halves. Just add a cocktail umbrella and you’ll feel like you’re sipping a citrusy piña poolside. 6. Midsummer Mojito—Rum plus limes plus mint equals the foundation for the perfect mojito, and now you can enjoy it in candle form. This supremely sweet, endlessly refreshing wax masterpiece starts off with intense scents of Kaffir lime and lemon wedges and then melts into mint, coconut, peppermint, rum and vanilla for the perfect finish. It instantly transports you to a tropical resort with a single sip. 7. American Summer—What’s more American than fresh-squeezed lemonade, juicy watermelon and a slice of lime on the side of your cocktail? Nothing! This joyous citrus candle couples lemon and lime with more mild fruit flavors, including watermelon and peach, for a perfectly balanced but majorly delightful result. Burn it throughout the summer for a completely smile-inducing experience. 8. Nevada—Despite the fact that it’s one of everyone’s favorite citrus fruits, orange doesn’t get enough love in the world of aromatics, and it’s a shame. But our Nevada-inspired orange-scented candle reminds us that a squeeze or two is always good for brightening up a happy profile. It blends lemon and orange with earthy cactus blossom, cedarwood and patchouli for a lively but rustic vibe. 9. Southern California—You’ll feel like you’re breathing in invigorating, salty air and gazing at tall palm trees when you burn this sweet Southern California candle. Featuring zesty lemon and oranges mixed with salt and aloe, this joy-filled creation takes you straight down the coast with the top down and your hair in the wind. Go ahead, breathe it in! Light Your Citrus Candles Year-Round Although we tend to think of citrus strictly as a summery scent, don’t be afraid to light a cheerful lemon, lime or orange candle in the fall, winter or spring, especially if you’re feeling like you need a little relaxation or sun. Cozy up by the fire with a fresh-smelling, summery candle and a home-mixed mojito—we’re right there with you!  

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Barbecue to Beach: 9 Summer Candle Scents That Will Transport You to Paradise

It’s the perfect summer day, a breezy 80 degrees with not a cloud in the sky. You have the day ahead of you to soak up the sunshine and the freedom—there’s no work, no chores and no stress whatsoever. Is there anything better? You can experience this every day with Homesick’s evocative summer candles, which are jam-packed with aromatics that can only be described as bright and delightful. The perfect warm-weather day is just around the corner, and all you have to do is flick a match. Taking a little break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life isn’t just fun, it’s also good for your health, and aromatherapy can help you reach a state of deep relaxation in a real way. In fact, studies showed that aromatherapy can help reduce anxiety, increase sleep and even stabilize blood pressure, leaving you feeling like you do when you’re on day three of a trip to an all-inclusive resort, all without leaving your house. Here’s how to recreate a relaxing summer day simply by lighting a few of your favorite candles. Sipping Cocktails by the Pool You start off your day posted up poolside, preferably under the cabana, with a citrus-garnished drink in hand. The air smells like a blend of fruit—oranges, lemons, pomegranate, coconut and pineapple—and bright, blooming flowers. There’s a cool, balmy breeze and the warm sun overhead. Each sip brightens your mood as you sink into a state of pure calm. Sunshine Spritz—First up: a summery spritz complete with flavorful orange, berry and limoncello mixed with blushed prosecco and a paper umbrella to top it off. Poolside Pina—Time to get a little more serious! Transport yourself to the sandy shores of Puerto Rico with a coconutty, lemony, pineapply beverage for the books. Midsummer Mojito—Cheers! Mojitos are everyone’s fave summer sipper and nothing says poolside perfection quite like lemon, lime, coconut and mint. This feeling is a breeze to capture with our mojito candle. Barbecuing with Buddies It’s lunchtime, which means a backyard barbecue is in order. The smoky smells of hickory, oak and maple mingle with spicy aromas of black pepper, cumin and nutmeg. An ice-cold beer or a glass of fresh-squeezed lemonade makes this midsummer lunch totally unbeatable. You crank up the good tunes (thanks, Summer BBQ Playlist on Spotify) and clink a glass with your best pals. Backyard BBQ—Yup, we make a candle for that. Our smoky barbecue candle puts you in the backyard with hints of spice, peach, vanilla, sugar, amber and musk. American Summer—Images of fresh flowers and picnics come to mind with this citrusy candle in a bouquet of lemon, lime, melon, watermelon, lily and peach. Dallas—God bless Texas and the barbecue it brings. This multifaceted candle takes you to an authentic Texas smoke-out complemented by rustic notes of leather and wood. An Afternoon at the Beach The afternoon is primetime for some swimming and sun-soaking. You head to the beach, spread out on a blanket and give the universal sign of happiness and relaxation—toes sunk deep into the sand, eyes closed. There’s a fresh, gentle breeze and you smell the sweet aroma of freshly slathered sunscreen and the salty sea. Beach Cottage—Driftwood, seaweed and conch shells come to mind thanks to notes of bergamot, beach, marine, sandalwood, cedarwood and tonka bean. San Diego—Surf’s up with this bright, floral candle featuring notes of lavender, rosemary and jasmine mixed with sea air, marine and sandalwood. Hawaii—This well-crafted, aromatic masterpiece reminds us that paradise is attainable. It features a tropical blend of pineapple, coconut, vanilla and seashore. Evoking Emotion Through Aromas Achieving a state of stress-free summer joy is easier than you might imagine, no matter the season, if you have the right aroma essentials. These emotion-inducing summer candle scents are sure to help make the stress float away, even if you’re a thousand miles away from a beach, a barbecue or an umbrella-topped cocktail. Remember: Paradise is a state of mind, not a state in the union!  

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Texas Candle: How We Pour the Lone Star State into a Jar

Spanning an impressive 268,597 square miles, Texas is the second-biggest state in the union, ranking only behind Alaska in terms of size and only behind California in terms of population. The massive, geographically diverse state is home to over 28 million people and five of the country’s top 20 most populous cities, so it simply can’t be categorized. Texas is a medley in every sense of the word, a place where people may be vastly different from one town to the next, but all share one thing in common: Texas pride. It is for this reason, we think, that the Homesick Texas candle is one of our most popular state candles. So, you ask, how did we manage to compress 268,597 square miles into a 13.75-ounce jar? It wasn’t easy, of course, but our Texas scented candles capture the essence of the Lone Star State to perfection, from the yucca-dotted dunes of the Chihuahuan Desert to the towering palms of the Rio Grande Valley. Anyone who longs for the earthiness, the purity or the spirit of the state will find that this aromatic essential ignites the memory in a truly distinct way. Let us take you on a sweet-smelling tour of the Jumbo State through a handpicked variety of signature Texas aromas. WHAT’S INSIDE OUR TEXAS CANDLE It’s hard to condense the second-largest state into a relatively tiny jar, but we’ve managed to do it successfully by combining all the most nostalgia-inducing aromas from this great, big state. Our process begins with exploration and discovery of the unique cultures, smells and landscapes that make up a place. In the case of Texas, there’s an overwhelming passion for whatever’s on the table, whether it’s football, barbecue, agriculture or politics. The unexpected diversity—in landscape, especially, but also in food, music and culture—was the biggest inspiration for our wax tribute. Forgive the cliché, but you know what they say about Texas: everything’s bigger there. This is the case with our supremely popular Texas candle, and we didn’t even try to contain it. Here are the aromas we chose to bring you back to Texas, no matter how long you’ve been away. Though they’re all different, they’re all united by the fact that they’re decidedly big and bold. Leather: Whether it’s a pair of freshly oiled cowboy boots, a saddle rode a bit too hard or the untanned leather of a well-worn wallet, there’s something uniquely special about Texas leather. Bringing an aroma of pure earth and the sweetness of the ranch, the scent of leather honors the state’s most famous mascot, the longhorn steer, while reminding locals of the wide-open plains of West Texas. Leather anchors the candle, giving it the natural, down-to-earth vibe that anything and everything Texas-related must possess. Pine: From the dry, desert valleys out West to the estuaries and marshes of the Gulf Coastal Plains, Texas is extremely geographically diverse. We’ve further enhanced our Texas candle by celebrating this diversity through a dash of punchy, earthy pine. Inspired by the population of native pine trees in the state, especially those in the Piney Woods and Lost Pines Forest of East Texas, pine brings a fresh, balanced scent that livens up the room. Pine reminds us that Texas is so much more than barren desert and farmland. Lemon: Thick, freshly picked slices of lemon brighten up the earthy base of the Texas candle, and it’s sure to trigger some nostalgia among anyone born and raised here. Lemons grow in bounty all the way from the Rio Grande Valley up to North Texas. For many natives, growing up in the southern part of the Lone Star State meant picking fresh, perfectly yellow varieties from backyard Meyer lemon trees and squeezing them into tart batches of fresh lemonade to share with the whole neighborhood. The Meyer lemon is nicknamed the Valley lemon in Texas for its popularity in the Rio Grande Valley, so we’ve made sure to capture the complex, slightly spicy aroma of the beloved Meyer variety. Cyclamen: Bringing a burst of winter color and a fine, perfumed aroma, the primrose-like cyclamen is a sight to behold all throughout Texas. This hardy perennial is planted in the fall to keep gardens looking lively in shades of pink, purple and red as the weather begins to cool. We selected cyclamen for Texas because it grows abundantly here and because it arouses the memory of the best time of year in the state, when the harsh weather fades into a mild, comfortable climate. It also adds a dreamy, floral note to this otherwise grounded candle and balances perfectly against the richness of leather, pine, cedarwood and musk.  Cedarwood: The lightness of lemon and cyclamen give way to enchanting cedarwood, further anchoring this candle deep into its South Central roots. Texas cedarwood oil is a popular essential oil commonly derived from the drought-tolerant juniper varieties Juniperus ashei and Juniperus deppeana, which both grow in abundance in the southwestern United States. Characterized by a smoky, woody aroma that’s pleasantly sweet and undeniably earthy, this agreeable mid note really pulls you into the Texas forest.  Moss and Musk: Base notes of moss and musk further contribute to the earthy, woody vibe of this candle. The Texas ball moss, found in backyards all over the state, is a member of the Bromeliad family, which also contains pineapple and Spanish moss. The mild, earthy aroma of moss is subtly bright and naturally punchy in this instance. You’ll also notice base notes of musk in the Texas candle, which makes any indoor environment smell pleasantly outdoorsy and animalistic. The base notes of the candle tend to linger a bit longer, giving this candle a rustic smelling quality that lasts. Sage: In Texas, sage is Leucophyllum frutescens, an evergreen shrub that’s not actually a true sage but a flowering evergreen that grows pleasantly scented flowers. The gray-green plant is sometimes nicknamed Texas Ranger, Texas rain sage and Texas silverleaf, and it’s a popular ornamental option in Lone Star state gardens. The final touch of sage in our Texas candle is a fresh but earthy aroma that keeps things supremely down to earth. CITY CANDLES FROM TEXAS It’s nearly impossible to capture every corner of this massive state in one single product, so we’ve begun working on Texas city candles as well. From the beloved Dallas option that was inspired by the mouthwateringly fragrant smell of a Texas barbecue to the limited edition Austin candle that brings an (appropriately) unique flavor, these candles will delight any diehard Texan and pull you right back to your favorite place. Dallas Candle—Dallasites gush over the supremely popular Dallas Homesick candle, and once you give it a whiff, you’ll understand why. This richly scented candle brings all the comforts of home with top notes of grapefruit, bergamot, leather and smoke with mid and base notes of nutmeg, cedarwood, frankincense, oakmoss and vetiver. In other words, it takes you right back to your happy place (a backyard Texas barbecue, of course) with its smoky-rich flavor and super-earthy aroma.  Houston Candle—Our latest Texas candle celebrates the Space City, the hometown of Beyoncé, Wes Anderson and Kenny Rogers. To capture the special feel of this bayou outpost, we’ve poured its most notable aromas into a jar. It features top notes of sparkling bergamot, white grapefruit peel and mandarin with mid notes of brushed suede, allspice and hay and bottom notes of smoked oud, tobacco leaves and Texas leather. Houstonians will be instantly transported back to the Upper Gulf Coast with this amazingly precise Houston candle. Limited Edition Austin Candle—Austinites, we couldn’t forget you! You bring the flavor (and the weird) to the Lone Star State, and we’re ever-grateful for your special charm. To pay tribute, we released a limited edition Austin candle just for you. Reminiscent of cool summer mornings on Lady Bird Lake and hikes along the Greenbelt, this candle captures Austin’s earthy vibes with notes of pine, leather, lime and cedarwood. Be sure to keep checking to see when the Austin candle will be back, because they sell out fast! HOW WE MAKE OUR TEXAS CANDLES You know what scents make up our popular Texas-themed candles, but now it’s time to learn about the actual ingredients we use to bring these nostalgia-inducing candles to life. We’ve opted to use soy wax in our premium candles because it’s a plant-based, non-toxic option that burns cleaner than paraffin and other types of wax. Soy wax doesn’t produce black soot, which can stain your walls, curtains and upholstery. In addition to high-quality soy wax, Homesick candles are produced with custom fragrance oils that we source and blend exclusively for our unique candles as well as premium cotton wicks that help ensure an enjoyable, even burn. The thoughtful combination of high-quality wick and all-natural soy wax ensures that our candles burn for longer, with our mini candles (2-ounce jar candles) burning for up to 12 hours each, our standard-sized candles (13.75-ounce jar candles) burning for up to 80 hours each and our largest candles (27.5-ounce three-wick candles) emitting nostalgic scents for up to 110 hours each. We know that not everyone has the same memories about a place, and if you’d like to change things up, we recommend elevating your aroma situation by pairing your Texas candle with some of our place-themed fragrance oils. Why not fill the room with an oil that smells like a pumpkin patch in the fall to remind you of special childhood memories back home? Or how about an oil that smells like a new home to take you back to a certain period of your life? There’s no limit to the memories you can stir up with sweetly scented candles and oils from Homesick. GIVE THE GIFT OF TEXAS TO ANYONE ON YOUR LIST Our Texas candles are great for any current or former Texan. Whether you miss it, love it or simply want to surround yourself in it, this candle will help transport you to another place entirely. We recommend these candles as special going away presents for people moving out of state, as just because gifts for diehard Texas-lovers or as unique reminders to those who have been gone far too long. Homesick candles are the perfect way to keep home with you, no matter where you are.

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6 Reasons Homesick Candles Make the Best Gifts for Friends

There’s something so totally satisfying about finding that perfect gift, one that’s thoughtful, personalized and priced right in the budgetary sweet spot. We strive to ensure that Homesick candles tick all of these boxes and more so that you find the best gifts for friends celebrating any of life’s milestones–from National Best Friends Day (that’s on June 8, in case you were wondering) to birthdays, graduations, weddings and big moves across the country. Here are some of the reasons why our memory-inducing candles make the best gifts for friends. Our college town candles make awesome gifts for your besties from college. 1. They Can Be Sentimental—Whether it’s one of our home state candles that smells like the place you both call home or a national park candle that signifies a special trip you took together, Homesick candles are made to memorialize experiences between close friends. Sentimentality is a good thing to strive for when shopping for gifts, but you don’t want to go overboard. Our candles provide that perfect balance between supremely sweet and overly sappy.  2. They Can Evoke Special Memories—You know that smells ring bells, and that’s because the part of our brain that triggers memories and emotions works in tandem with the olfactory bulb, which processes incoming smells. We can’t get back those once-in-a-lifetime moments or special periods of our lives, but we can cherish our memories and keep them fresh through smells. Our memory candles evoke reminiscences of birthday parties, beach houses, pumpkin patches, barbecues, libraries and Friday night football games shared with close pals. 3. They Smell Good, Plain and Simple— You’ll want to light them all the time, whether you’re hosting a group of friends for dinner or settling in for a relaxing night in. For example, our Texas candles are infused with notes of leather, pine and citrus, while our Florida candles smell like oranges, bergamot and mangrove wood. Even if you have no connection to the location, you’ll love these candles all the same. 4. They’re Perfect for Any Occasion—Candles, in general, are among the most versatile gift options out there, since they tend to be crowd-pleasers and work well in all sorts of celebratory themes, like housewarmings, bridal showers and more. Homesick candles come in even more specific themes, so they can be used to honor a huge range of emotions. We’ve given these candles as gifts for friends heading off to college and landing new jobs and to convey the emotion that a friend is missed or in your thoughts. 5. They Suit Any Recipient—With a huge range of aromas available—not to mention a constantly changing assortment of limited edition candles and brand-new releases—it won’t take long for you to find the perfect Homesick candles for all of your closest friends. Places are just the tip of the iceberg with Homesick since we also have options that immortalize unique memories and individual experiences, from first kisses to four-twenty.  6. They Come in Three Sizes and Prices—Budget should be a consideration when looking for that perfect gift, and these supremely gift-worthy home accents don’t disappoint in that department, either. We offer our richly scented candles in three convenient sizes: 2-ounce mini candles that burn for 10-12 hours, 13.75-ounce regular candles that burn for 60-80 hours and 27.5-ounce three-wick candles that burn for 90-110 hours. Prices range from under $10 to around $55, so there’s an option for basically any budget. Gifts That Make Recipients Grin No matter what or who you’re celebrating, there’s a Homesick candle that’s utterly ideal for the occasion. Cities, states, times and places are preserved and poured into jars for your burning pleasure, allowing you to reignite memories you shared with your dearest friends anytime and anywhere. Be sure to browse our complete collection of premium candles to find a wrap-worthy option you’ll be proud to give.

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