What Does Tobacco Smell Like?

Source: Attasit saentep/Shutterstock.com A lot of people think they won’t enjoy the scent of tobacco in candles and other home fragrance products. This is usually because they associate it with the thought of walking into a smoke-filled bar or emptying an ashtray. However, the truth is that tobacco fragrance notes smell nothing like cigarette smoke. So, what does tobacco smell like?  You could try one of our candles that features tobacco notes, like our France Candle, to find out, or you could keep reading to learn more about this scent and determine whether it’s right for you.  What Tobacco Smells Like The experience of smelling a tobacco-scented candle is entirely different from that of stepping into a crowded, smoky room. While there are a few variations, tobacco usually has a seductive, sweet and lightly smoky feel. It is commonly paired with cherry or vanilla to create a fragrance reminiscent of pipe tobacco. It also works well with floral and spice notes.  A dried tobacco leaf has a sweet, earthy aroma and even has medicinal uses. It doesn’t have the heavily smoky, chemical smell of cigarette smoke because it has not been smoked yet. Instead, it has a rich, masculine aroma that’s herbaceous, woody and even a little bit powdery. It reminds some folks of the scent of pipe tobacco on their grandfather’s clothing. For others, it’s reminiscent of the smell inside a humidor.  Discover Our Memory-Inspired Candles Experience Tobacco Scented Candles from Homesick At Homesick, many of our candles feature the intoxicating aroma of tobacco paired with other scents to create truly unique fragrance experiences. If you’d like to experience this fragrance note for yourself, try one of the candles below.  North Carolina Candle Escape to the Smoky Mountains and enjoy the scent of tobacco with our North Carolina Candle. This candle features top notes of tobacco, peach and blackberry paired with sugar, clove and cinnamon. Tonka bean, amber and vanilla base notes round this scent out with a touch of sweetness.  Nashville Candle Experience the feeling of walking into a local honky tonk with our Nashville Candle. You don’t even have to enjoy country music to love this little slice of Music City, USA. Tobacco, bergamot and maple form the top notes of this fragrance. Patchouli (what does patchouli smell like?), vanilla and cedarwood comprise the mid notes, while the base notes include musk, tonka bean and sandalwood. Check Out Our Nashville Candle Montreal Candle You don’t have to leave the country to envelop yourself in the scents of Montreal. Our Montreal candle features top notes of rain, wet cobblestones and baguettes followed by tobacco, rosebud and vetiver mid notes. Finally, vanilla, amber and guaiac wood form the base notes of this unique fragrance experience. Houston Candle Explore the scents of the Lonestar State with our Houston Candle. Bergamot and white grapefruit top notes offer some cool relief from the sweltering heat, while mid notes of brushed suede and leather and tobacco, mandarin and hay base notes round out this exciting fragrance experience.  Sagittarius Candle Our Sagittarius Candle is perfect for those born under this astrological sign and anyone who has a thirst for knowledge, adventure and just a little bit of mischief. Illuminate your space with this candle and enjoy top notes of thyme, sage and verbena; tobacco, musk and vetiver mid notes; and base notes of lavender and sandalwood.  Capricorn Candle If you are driven by a desire to succeed or were born between December 22 and January 19, check out our Capricorn Candle. Since Capricorns are natural leaders, it only makes sense that this fragrance starts with refreshing top notes of bergamot, amber and citron. Tobacco and teakwood form the mid notes, while white whiskey and cedar bark base notes round out this rich scent.  Black Tux Candle Part of our Wedding Collection, our Black Tux Candle features masculine aromas reminiscent of the groom and his groomsmen. It starts with top notes of smoked tobacco, bergamot and leather, followed by brushed suede, santal and dark bourbon mid notes. Cashmere, musk, teakwood and vetiver base notes provide a seductive finish.  Find Tobacco Candles You’ll Love If you’re on the fence about tobacco fragrance, give it a try! You’ll likely be surprised by just how pleasant this unique scent is. Try one of the candles above or browse our complete collection to uncover other intoxicating aromas.

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12 Best Candles for People Who Are Sensitive to Smells

Finding a signature scent is no easy task for someone who is sensitive to smells. Whether certain fragrances cause full-blown allergic reactions or they trigger a headache or an unpleasant sensation in your throat, it is best to stay away from the ones that bother you — no matter how amazing they smell. You may also need to avoid products containing certain scents and ingredients if you have sensitive skin and experience rashes or other dermatologic reactions. Fortunately, being sensitive to smells does not have to mean living an utterly scent-free life. While many personal care and home fragrance products are jam-packed with harsh chemicals that can irritate your skin and trigger allergic reactions, there are natural alternatives that are much safer for chronic allergy sufferers and those with sensitive skin.  According to the results of one study, nearly 30 percent of people are sensitive to fragrances. If you are among them, avoiding your triggers is the best way to prevent reactions. We also encourage you to consult with your physician, allergist or dermatologist to learn more about managing your symptoms and what specific triggers you should avoid. At Homesick, we make candles using a natural soy wax blend and wicks made from 100-percent cotton. Our custom fragrance oils are carefully blended to ensure an enjoyable and long-lasting aromatic experience. And since our candles are non-toxic and free of phthalates, paraben, plastic, lead and synthetic dyes, they are less likely to trigger sensitivities. If you are looking for clean candles featuring amazing smells, you’ve come to the right place. Keep scrolling to discover a few of the best candles for people who are sensitive to smells.  1. Gone Hiking Candle Earthy candle scents are some of the best for allergy sufferers because they usually are not overly perfumy. Our Gone Hiking candle is filled with the scents of the forest, and its aroma is as clean and fresh as Mother Nature herself. Illuminate this candle, and you’ll find yourself standing upon fresh moss surrounded by the tallest pine trees. This awe-inspiring fragrance also includes hints of water, cedarwood, jasmine and ivy to complete your trek through the forest. Gone Hiking is a great choice for anyone who loves getting outdoors and spending time in nature. Its earthy fragrance is also an excellent way to experience the mystery and allure of the forest, even when you’re living in the middle of a concrete jungle.  2. Vancouver Candle Our Vancouver candle features the scents of cool mountain breezes and salty sea air. Base notes of wild hemp, hops and patchouli form a perfect foundation for the earthy fragrances of douglas fir, cedarwood, ocean waters, mountain air and rain. Notes of grapefruit and citron add an exciting touch that will captivate your senses. Whether Vancouver is your hometown, a favorite vacation destination or even a spot you would love to visit, this candle is an excellent way to pay tribute to this vibrant city.  3. Colorado Candle Shop Our States Candles Try our Colorado candle if you are in the mood for some crisp, clean mountain air. Take a deep breath and enjoy the peaceful scent of evergreens under wide-open skies. You will also detect notes of fresh snow, sandalwood, amber and musk. A hint of cinnamon cuts the chill and warms up this cool fragrance. This candle makes a great gift for anyone who loves the beauty of Colorado and the Rocky Mountains. From the snow-capped mountains to the deepest river canyons, this scent encompasses all of the landscapes that make the Centennial State such an incredible place.  4. Thank You, Mom Candle Our Thank You, Mom candle is an excellent option if you prefer the floral side of earthy scents. Filled with the aromas that make a house a home, it is a welcome addition to any space. Ignite this candle, and you’ll be surrounded by the scents of fresh flowers on the dining room table and breakfast cooking on a Sunday morning. Musk, lily and sandalwood base notes form the foundation for lively sage, bergamot and lavender top notes. You’ll also detect hints of ylang ylang and jasmine while enjoying this delicate fragrance. Thank You, Mom is, of course, a lovely gift to share with your mom for Mother’s Day or her birthday. It would also be a perfect gift to give your new mother-in-law at your wedding. Don’t feel like you have to give it as a gift, though. It would make a wonderful treat to enjoy yourself too!  5. New Home Candle The scent of a new home is the scent of new opportunities and memories waiting to be made. It’s a clean, uplifting fragrance that evokes positive emotions and brings to mind a blank canvas. Our New Home candle captures all of these things in one of our cleanest fragrances. Featuring top and mid notes of cedarwood, jasmine, sandalwood and lime atop a base of musk and oakmoss, this candle will take you back to the day you moved into your first home.  New Home makes an excellent housewarming gift. And this scent is also available as a reed diffuser, which is a great alternative to candles for people with kids or pets. Whether you choose the candle or the diffuser, you will quickly discover why this is one of our best-selling fragrances.  6. Home Office When you work from home and need an energy boost to help you power through your day, check out the Home Office candle. It features a clean, energizing aroma that’s perfect for starting your morning or pushing through an afternoon slump. With this candle illuminating your workspace, you will be enveloped by the warm scents of vanilla, patchouli and cinnamon. Breathe deeply, and you’ll detect hints of oud, guaiac wood, amber, fresh air, water lilies and heliotrope petals. Both energizing soothing, Home Office is a must-have for your work-at-home arsenal!  Our Home Office candle isn’t just for adults working from home. It’s a great one to light when your kids are working on homework too. It can give your child the energy boost they need to get their work done while providing you with the stress relief you need to deal with those Common Core math problems! 7. Ski Trip Candle Our Ski Trip candle is a clean winter scent that will remind you of cozying up to a roaring fire in the lodge after a long day on the slopes. You’ll even detect a hint of luscious hot cocoa and cinnamon to keep you nice and toasty. This candle features base notes of patchouli, vanilla and cedar. Cocoa, cinnamon and guaiac wood form subtle mid notes that give way to the fresh fragrances of warm amber and frosted air.  This candle is a good option if you are looking for a rich fragrance that’s free from floral smells. Cozy and earthy, it also makes an excellent gift — especially during the winter holidays. Even if the recipient isn’t a skier, they are sure to love this cozy scent. Skip Trip is also one of the fragrances available with our Pur Smart Home Diffuser. This high-tech device is a perfect alternative to candles for folks who are especially sensitive to smells or don’t use candles.  8. Beach Cottage Candle  Check out Beach Cottage if you are more into sand and surf than snow and cocoa. Salty ocean air blends with driftwood, warm sand and seashells to form an intoxicating aroma that any beach lover will surely appreciate. This candle starts with clean base notes of sea air, amber and tonka bean. Bergamot and sandalwood form the top notes, and you will also pick up slight hints of marine, musk and plumeria floating on the breeze.  The warm glow of our Beach Cottage candle is a perfect escape when you need a break from the stress of the world. This summery candle also makes an excellent gift for a friend or loved one who is in desperate need of a vacation. You may not be able to send them on an all-expenses-paid trip to a tropical island, but you can bring the beach to them with this unique fragrance.  9. Book Club Candle Pair It with a Reed Diffuser Few things are better than curling up with a great book on a rainy afternoon. And with our Book Club candle, you can create the perfect ambiance for enjoying your next rainy day read. Light this candle and breathe in warm amber, vanilla and balsam base notes. Indulge your senses with invigorating nutmeg and orange top notes, and take in hints of cinnamon and sandalwood.   A Book Club candle is a beautiful addition to your reading nook. It also would make an excellent gift for the book lover in your life. Librarians, teachers and students are sure to love this fragrance too. It would also be a welcome part of any book club meeting that is sure to spark conversation.  10. Spring Cleaning Candle Give your home a freshly cleaned fragrance without lifting a finger. Our Spring Cleaning candle is packed with the scents of fresh air and cleanliness. When you are enveloped in this candle’s glow, you will swear you can smell clean linens and fresh-cut flowers on your table. Agave, musk and vetiver are this scent’s base notes. Mid notes include coriander, clove leaf and basil, while clean linen, bergamot and lime form the top notes.  Freshen your home up and kick off the season with our Spring Cleaning candle. You can even light it up during the cold, dark winter months to brighten your home and enliven the space with the energy of springtime. This candle makes an excellent gift too.  11. Southern California Candle Escape to sunny SoCal with our Southern California candle. Featuring citrus scents and the crisp, clean aroma of the ocean, this scent works well for many people who are sensitive to fragrances. Its top notes include lemon, orange and rose, while jasmine and sea breeze form the mid notes. Musk, clove and vanilla blend to create an intoxicating base for this one-of-a-kind candle that’s reminiscent of sunny days spent at the beach and on Rodeo Drive.  Shop our Southern California candle if you’re looking for a fragrant way to infuse your home with West Coast vibes. Whether you’re a Southern California native or you’ve always dreamed of visiting sunny SoCal, you’ll love this candle. It’s a great gift for anyone who enjoys sweet, citrusy scents too.  12. Evening Unwind Candle At the end of the day, it’s always great to have something that will help you relax. The next time you need some help, reach for our Evening Unwind candle. Featuring a soothing scent blend, it’s a perfect way to put your mind at ease and relax before bed. This candle blends top notes of green tea leaf and Valencia orange with mid notes of calming blue lavender, melon and lemon extract. Base notes of neroli, moss and sugared musk further calm your mind and lull you to sleep. Try Evening Unwind if you have trouble relaxing or falling asleep at night. Or give it to a friend or loved one who is going through a rough patch. This candle’s soothing fragrances are excellent for anyone who needs some help quieting their mind at the end of a long day.  Find the Best Candles for People Who Are Sensitive to Smells at Homesick At Homesick, we pride ourselves on selling high-quality candles that are free from several ingredients that commonly trigger sensitivities. While everyone is different and you should always follow your doctor’s advice if you experience adverse reactions to certain smells, we have several fragrances that work well for many people with sensitivities. Browse our complete collection today to find a signature fragrance for your home.  Image Credits Olga Danylenko/Shutterstock.com Sean Xu/Shutterstock.com Sahani Photography/Shutterstock.com Agnes Kantaruk/Shutterstock.com

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What Are Candle Wicks Made Of?

Source: Enjoy the Life/Shutterstock.com Whether you enjoy relaxing in the warm glow of candles after long days spent at work, you love giving custom candles as gifts or you simply use candles to give your home a more pleasant aroma, you’ve probably never given much thought to their wicks. You likely think that a candle’s fragrance, shape and color are its most important features, but the wick is the real star of the show. It allows you to ignite your candle and does so much more. The wick determines how slowly or quickly a candle will burn, and it plays a major role in a candle’s overall cleanliness when lit.  Shop Our Most Popular Candles If you have never spent much time thinking about these essential components, your first question might be: What are candle wicks made of? There are a few different options, but here at Homesick, our wicks are made from 100-percent organic cotton to ensure a clean, even fragrance experience. We’ve selected only the best ingredients for our products, but other brands often use inferior wicks to cut back on costs. Keep reading to learn more about what candle wicks are made of.  Types of Wicks Candle wicks come in several styles and are made using a wide range of materials. No matter what type of wick you prefer, always be sure to read and follow the candle care instructions. Some of the most common wick types include:  Flat Wicks Flat wicks are the most common type. Typically, they are made from three bundles of braided cotton or another fiber. They’re similar in shape to purse and backpack straps, and they are designed to curl as they are used. This results in a self-trimming effect.  Square Wicks Like flat wicks, square wicks are made from braided fiber. However, they are rounder and sturdier, which allows them to stay upright longer while in use. With this type, you typically need to trim the candle wick more frequently because they only curl and self-trim slightly.  Cored Wicks As the name suggests, this type of wick has a core. They’re made by pairing a sturdy inner core made of cotton or zinc with a fibrous outer layer. The core helps them stand up on their own and makes them a good choice for container candles. They are prone to mushrooming, though, so be prepared to trim frequently. Cored wicks are one of the most popular options for container candles. Wooden Wicks Source: soul_studio/Shutterstock.com Made primarily of natural wood, wooden wicks offer a slow, even burn. Some feature a single ply of wood, while others have multiple plies. There are also candles featuring decorative wooden wicks in various shapes. Wooden wicks produce a crackling sound reminiscent of that of a fireplace or campfire too. They are available in various shapes and sizes and require frequent trimming.  Specialty Wicks This category is sort of a catch-all. Some brands use their own proprietary wicks. There are also products — like insect-repellent candles — that require specialty wicks. Oil lamps need a special type of wick too. The specialty wicks category includes these wicks plus any others not included in the other categories.  How Do Candle Wicks Work?  Candle wicks don’t just burn like logs in a fireplace. Instead, they siphon fuel up to the flame through a scientific principle known as capillary action. Capillary action involves the adhesion, surface tension and cohesion of the fuel. In candles, the melted wax is the fuel. The wick pulls liquid into the wick by adhesion, and the wax travels upward because of the cohesion between its molecules and its surface tension. This is the same thing that happens if you dip a paper towel in water and watch the water travel up the paper. Capillary action allows plants to take in water and nutrients from their roots too.  Different wick types and materials all have their own impact on capillary action. Some pull up more or less wax than others, which can accept the size and temperature of the flame and how quickly the candle burns. Wicks that burn too quickly can produce excess soot, while ones that burn too slowly are often difficult to keep lit. Though tiny, wicks play a huge role in the overall functionality of candles of all types.  Give the Gift of Custom Candles Source: Michael L Britton/Shutterstock.com If you’re looking for candles with high-quality wicks that enable you to relax and enjoy a slow, even glow, check out the full selection at Homesick. We use high-quality wicks to ensure both safety and a long-lasting fragrance experience. 

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What Does Cashmere Smell Like?

Even if you love how a cashmere sweater or a pair of gloves made from this soft material feels against your skin, you might not be sure what to expect from a fragrance called “cashmere.” The cashmere used to make garments and accessories is one of the most luxurious fabrics on the market. It is a type of wool that comes from the cashmere goats of the Gobi Desert. As a product that comes from animals, it has a natural, earthy aroma that some folks love and others do not particularly enjoy.  So, what does Homesick’s version of cashmere smell like? Fortunately, the cashmere scents used in candles and other home fragrances do not smell like goats or their wool. Instead, they feature intoxicating warm notes paired with gentle, powdery base notes. These scents are perfect whether you’re looking for romantic date night candles or just looking to add some warmth and softness to your home.  Source: paralisart/Shutterstock.com We’ll be answering “What does cashmere smell like” and sharing our top picks for candles featuring this soothing and romantic scent. Read on to learn more.  What Cashmere Smells Like Cashmere fragrances smell like cashmere fabric feels against your skin. These scents are soft and warm, with musky notes that hint at the utmost luxury and sophistication. Vanilla, patchouli and sandalwood base notes lay the foundation for top notes of lime, mandarin and musk. Combined, these fragrances form an elegant, classy scent that is equally suitable for romantic nights at home and relaxing spa days.  Pair It with a Reed Diffuser Scents That Pair Well with Cashmere Cashmere is a unique and versatile scent that pairs well with many other fragrance notes. When combined with delicate florals, like jasmine and rose, it forms a romantic, feminine aroma. However, it works equally well with more masculine scents like leather, tobacco, teakwood and bourbon. Vanilla, tonka bean and herbal scents blend beautifully with the aromas of cashmere too.  Find Cashmere Candles You’ll Love At Homesick, we have several candles featuring the alluring fragrance of cashmere. If this scent is one of your favorites, you will love these candles:  Date Night Candle Our Date Night candle is a perfect addition to a romantic evening in with someone special. Set the mood with top notes of cashmere, red currant and fig combined with lemon and sandalwood mid notes. Musk, patchouli and lily base notes add sexy touches that are sure to invigorate your senses. Black Tux Candle Our Black Tux candle features one of our most masculine cashmere scents. It starts with top notes of smoked tobacco, leather and bergamot paired with mid notes of santal, dark bourbon and brushed suede. Cashmere musk, teakwood and vetiver base notes provide a solid base for this incredible scent that’s reminiscent of black tuxedos paired with freshly shined leather shoes.  Gemini Candle Part of our Astrology collection, our Gemini candle pairs cashmere with fresh floral and citrus notes to create a clever scent that perfectly suits the duplicitous nature of many Geminis. However, it’s also a great choice for anyone who enjoys fun, unique aromas. It features top and mid notes of lemon, rosemary, jasmine, tonka, gardenia and cyclamen resting on base notes of cashmere musk and vanilla flower.  Browse Our Astrology Candles Great Smoky Mountains Candle     Explore the scents of nature with our Great Smoky Mountains candle. This earthy and relaxing fragrance is a perfect option for anyone with a sense of adventure. Base notes of cashmere musk, warm santal and lavender flower form the perfect base for dewdrop, fresh air and green melon top notes and crushed bay, clove leaf and ivy vine mid notes. This candle is the next best thing to spending a day in the mountains.  Indulge Your Senses with Cashmere Candles from Homesick At Homesick, we’re thrilled to create candle scents that captivate the senses and can transport you to another place or time with a single whiff. Our cashmere scents are thoughtfully formulated to offer the same warmth and softness you associate with your favorite cashmere sweater. If you’re looking for cashmere candles for your home, the above products are excellent options. These candles also make lovely gifts for anyone who enjoys soft, sophisticated scents. Browse our complete collection today to find your new favorite! 

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The Scent Guide: What Does Snow Smell Like?

Source: Standret/Shutterstock.com Snow is a common component of winter candle scents. When reading it in a scent description, though, you might be unsure what it actually smells like. For those who have experienced the aroma of a fresh snowfall in person, it may be difficult to imagine how anyone could capture that particular scent in a candle. Most folks say that real snow has a fresh, clean smell and the aroma changes depending on whether the snow is falling or already on the ground. But if you ask them to describe a snow-scented home fragrance product, they’ll probably have a hard time explaining it.  Get Cozy with a Spice Scented Candle Much like cashmere candles don’t smell like real cashmere but instead invoke the soft, lush feelings of cashmere, the snow fragrance used in candles is reminiscent of the crisp chill of a cold winter morning. In this scent guide, we’ll be discussing what snow smell like to help you decide if this winter fragrance is the right one for your home.  Describing the Scent of Snow Fragrances So, what does snow smell like? Imagine stepping outside on a chilly winter morning and taking a deep breath of the cool air. Think of how it feels as it enters your nose and travels to your lungs. That cold, crisp feeling is the basis for most snow fragrances. The first thing you’ll notice in a snow-inspired fragrance, such as the fresh snow notes found in our Montana Candle, is peppermint. This refreshing scent is reminiscent of that feeling of stepping out into a winter day.  Vanilla and tonka bean are also often found in snowy fragrances. They add a touch of sweet warmth to the cool peppermint aroma to remind you of cozying up under a soft blanket or wrapping yourself in a comfy scarf. Cinnamon is another popular addition for adding some warmth to counteract the wintery coldness of peppermint. Try our Idaho Candle if you’d like to experience the mix of cinnamon and fresh snow for yourself.  Many snowy scents also feature woodsy forest fragrances. Inhale deeply, and notice the aroma of spruce needles, cedarwood, amber and sandalwood flooding your senses. With just one breath, you’ll be transported to the snow-capped mountains of the Rocky Mountains with our Colorado Candle.  Other Snowy Scents from Homesick When you’re in the market for the perfect snow-inspired candle, Homesick has you covered. Our collection includes several winter candles featuring this crisp, clean scent.  Utah Candle When you’re craving a wintertime getaway to a cozy cabin in the forest, try our Utah Candle. Top notes of spruce needle and cinnamon blend with snow, cedarwood and marine to create a cool, cozy fragrance you have to experience. Sandalwood, musk and amber base notes round out this unique fragrance experience.  Idaho Candle Escape to a cedar lodge in the mountains with our Idaho Candle. It features top notes of spruce and needles paired with fresh snow and sandalwood mid notes. Cedarwood and amber base notes round out the crisp scent of snow-capped mountains and trees with the clean, cozy fragrances of a warm mountain lodge.  North Dakota Candle Slow down and enjoy a snowy evening from the comfort of a toasty cabin with our North Dakota Candle. First, you will detect the top notes of spruce paired with a subtle touch of clove. Next, you’ll experience the clean aromas of fresh snow and cedarwood, followed by amber and touches of vanilla and tonka bean that provide a sweet base.  Ski Trip Candle If you’re looking for a winter scent that’s a little less snowy, check out our Ski Trip Candle. While it doesn’t contain our usual snow fragrance, it features top notes of frosted air and amber that will remind you of a day on the slopes. And mid notes of cocoa, cinnamon and guaiac wood paired with vanilla, cedar and patchouli base notes will give you the sensation of cuddling up to a roaring fire in the lodge.  Try One of Our Winter Candle Scents Surround Yourself with the Aromas of Winter with Homesick Whether you love snow or are just looking for a perfect candle for the holiday season, our snow-inspired candles are an excellent choice. And since our non-toxic candles are made with a natural soy wax blend and wicks made from 100-percent cotton, you can feel great about using them in your home or giving them as a gift.  Now that you know what snow fragrances smell like, browse our complete collection today to find your new favorite candle fragrance.

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The Scent Guide: What Does the Desert Smell Like?

Escape to the Arizona desert without ever leaving home by indulging in the intoxicating aroma of our Phoenix candle. Or experience the scents of the American Southwest with fragrances inspired by New Mexico, Nevada and Las Vegas. With Homesick candles, the scent of the desert is never more than a flick of a lighter away. If you have never visited a desert, you might be wondering what this type of environment smells like. Even if you have been to one, you might be unsure how to describe the unique aromas of these arid landscapes and how they can be translated into home fragrance products. Source: Brent Coulter/Shutterstock.com So, what does the desert smell like? Whether you’ve never experienced it yourself or aren’t quite sure how to describe it, keep reading to discover the answer!  Escape to the Desert with Homesick Candles What Does the Desert Smell Like?  While deserts may appear to consist only of sand, they are made up of so much more. There is, of course, lots of sand, but there are also rocks, plants and animal matter. Blue agave is one of the most prevalent plant fragrances associated with the deserts of the American Southwest. What does blue agave smell like?  It is a fresh, uplifting scent with citrus, floral and woodsy notes. Typically regarded as a spa fragrance, it is also commonly used in desert-inspired home fragrance products.  Not all deserts smell the same, but, generally, they have an overall clean, earthy aroma punctuated by herbal and floral notes. The seasons play a significant role in how any landscape smells. During the spring, desert flowers produce a beautiful bouquet of floral fragrances. And during the drier winter months, you may be able to detect the smell of creosote. Fragrances inspired by deserts in the United States also commonly include notes of orange, lemon, cactus blossom, musk, sandalwood, amber, patchouli and other intoxicating scents that invoke feelings of warmth.  Desert-Inspired Candles from Homesick If you wish you could experience the aromas of the desert from the comfort of your home, we have some excellent solutions. Our collection includes several candles featuring desert scents.  Phoenix Candle Check out our Phoenix candle to enjoy quintessential southwestern scents. Reminiscent of hot, dry air filled with the aromas of sand and citrus, this is one of our favorite desert-inspired fragrances. It features top notes of orange flower and lime, sandalwood and desert bush mid notes and musk tonka bean base notes.  Plan Your Next Adventure with Our Road Trip Candle Arizona Candle Part of our Road Trip collection, our Arizona candle smells like the Grand Canyon. It features top notes of lime, orange and musk with blue agave and sand mid notes. Tonka bean and amber base notes round out this fragrance that will let you enjoy the invigorating aroma of the Arizona outdoors, no matter where you live.  Nevada Candle The Nevada candle is also part of our Road Trip collection and is filled with desert-inspired fragrances. It begins with warm top scents of patchouli, orange and lemon that trigger memories of the hot, dry desert air. Next, cedarwood and cactus blossom mid notes further transport you into the desert landscape. Base notes of sandalwood, musk and aroma complete this scent you have to experience for yourself to fully appreciate.  New Mexico Candle The New Mexico candle is the next stop on Homesick’s Road Trip through the southwest. This scent starts with spicy top notes of nutmeg and chili pepper paired with cactus. Next come mid notes of sandalwood, musk and clover. Lastly, bay leaf and cedarwood base notes cool things down a bit and balance out the warmer scents.  Las Vegas Candle If your idea of the perfect desert getaway includes some time on the Las Vegas Strip, you’ll love our Las Vegas candle. Earthy desert aromas pair with hints of fine dining and cold, hard cash from the Strip to form this one-of-a-kind scent. Top notes of basil, amber and fir needle are followed by cinnamon, clove and oakmoss mid notes. Base notes of tonka bean and peppermint round this candle out with a cool, sweet finish.  Los Angeles Candle Experience the City of Angels with our Los Angeles candle that perfectly blends sand and sea. It starts with top notes of rose, bergamot and orange. Mid notes of lemon and ylang-ylang and base note of musk and jasmine round out this lovely and complex scent.  Indulge in Desert Scents from Homesick Browse our complete collection today to find a perfect desert-inspired candle for your home.

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5 Best National Parks to Visit

America’s national parks are the perfect place to explore all that nature offers. Established to preserve some of the country’s most remarkable landscapes, they are welcome escapes from the hustle and bustle of city life and are excellent travel destinations. With more than 400 national park sites to choose from, though, deciding where to go is no easy task. We can help! We’ve put together this list of several of the best national parks to visit to help you plan your next great adventure. From Yellowstone to the Great Smoky Mountains, here are a few of our top picks.  Discover Our Memory Inspirted Candles 1. Yellowstone National Park Every list of the best national parks includes Yellowstone, and this one is no exception. Yellowstone National Park was established in 1872 and has countless iconic western sites. From Old Faithful to herds of bison and packs of wolves, this park has it all. Yellowstone is also a favorite because of its attention to accessibility. With stroller and wheelchair-friendly trails, this park is an extremely family-friendly destination.  Can’t make it to the park yourself? Or want to bask in its beauty and majesty from the comfort of your own home? If so, check out our Yellowstone candle. Envelop yourself in its remarkable aroma, and you’ll almost be able to feel the mists of Old Faithful on your face. This candle features musk, driftwood and amber crystal mist base notes along with clove leaf, blondwood and water hyacinth mid notes and Valencia orange peel, verbena and neroli flower top notes.  2. Zion National Park Discover massive sandstone cliffs and walk the same paths as pioneers and native people at Zion National Park in Utah. This park is home to a unique assortment of landscapes, plants and animals that are sure to captivate and intrigue. The region also has a rich history that’s just as interesting as the local fauna and flora. Zion offers a wide range of activities for visitors. Hike Zion Canyon and make your way through The Narrows and The Subway. Cool off in the Virgin River, enjoy a horseback ride or do some stargazing. There are plenty of options from which to choose.  3. Glacier Bay National Park Located in Alaska, Glacier Bay National Park is home to deep glacial fjords and soaring peaks. It is home to some of America’s most breathtaking landscapes and wildlife and is part of one of the largest international protected areas in the world. Visit Glacier Bay National Park for a true remote wilderness experience, or take in the sights while enjoying an Alaskan cruise.  4. Gettysburg National Military Park Source: imagoDens/Shutterstock.com Visit Gettysburg National Military Park in Pennsylvania to come face-to-face with American history. Tour Civil War battlefields, stand in the place where Abraham Lincoln delivered the Gettysburg Address and visit other important historical sites. Depending on when you visit, you may even be able to go on a ghost tour after dark. Whether you are a history buff or looking for an educational experience for your family, Gettysburg National Military Park is definitely worth visiting.  5. Great Smoky Mountains National Park Great Smoky Mountains National Park straddles the border between Tennessee and North Carolina, and it is world-renowned for both its beauty and its diverse plant and wildlife. It’s also one of the last remaining places to experience the culture of Southern Appalachia. As one of the most-visited parks in the U.S., it offers activities for the entire family. Whether you enjoy hiking, biking or wildlife viewing, you can enjoy your favorite activity in this expansive park. There are lots of entertainment amenities in the surrounding communities too! Our Great Smoky Mountains candle is a perfect way to enjoy the scents of the forest from home. Featuring a soothing yet refreshing blend of earthy, floral and spicy fragrances, this candle will transport you on a pleasant journey through the signature mist of the Smokies. When you illuminate this candle, you’ll instantly sense top notes of green melon, fresh air and dewdrops. Those scents are followed by clove leaf, ivy vine and crushed bay mid notes. Last, base notes of warm santal, lavender flower and cashmere musk invigorate your senses and invoke the mystery of the forest.  Become One with Nature with Our Gone Hiking Candle Conclusion National Parks are incredible places where you can experience some of the best of what America has to offer. With National Park Sites in every state and U.S. territory, you shouldn’t need to travel very far to find one. And with our National Park candles, you can enjoy the aromas of your favorite places at home. These candles make great gifts for homeowners too!

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Zodiac Compatibility: Find Your Perfect Candle Match

Scent is one of our most powerful senses. The olfactory system resides in the same region of the brain that controls memory, emotions and creativity. For this reason alone, it should come as no surprise that scent, emotion and memory are closely linked. Our brains often link certain fragrances to specific experiences, special people in our lives or even time periods. For example, catching a whiff of freshly made pancakes might mentally transport you back to your childhood kitchen on a Saturday morning.  One of the most interesting things about various fragrances is that they don’t affect everyone the same way. We are all drawn to some scents more than others, and just about everyone has a personal favorite. If you’ve ever wondered why you find some scents more pleasant and enjoyable than others, you might be surprised to learn that the day you were born could have something to do with it.  If you are familiar with astrology, you know that your zodiac sign plays a role in several aspects of your life. Your sun sign is based on your date of birth and corresponds to one of twelve zodiacs. Also known as your star sign, it represents your fundamental nature and who you are as your core. Your zodiac sign even influences your preferences — including your fragrance preferences. The benefits of candles are numerous. When you choose one based on your sign, the perks can be even greater. If you are looking for the perfect candle match based on zodiac compatibility, you’re in the right place. Read on to learn more.  Fall in Love with Our Zodiac Candles Aries: March 21 – April 19 Aries is the first sign of the zodiac, and people born under this sign tend to be bold, confident and sometimes a bit aggressive. Natural-born leaders, Aries individuals are trail-blazing firestarters thanks to having Mars as their ruling planet. They’re also very straightforward and open but can have a hard time expressing difficult emotions. The perfect Aries candle is one that’s packed with rich and invigorating aromas. Fiery, smoky scents paired with spices and citrus fragrances work well for people born under this dynamic and powerful sign. Look for smoked amber, black pepper, cinnamon, grapefruit, bergamot and lemon flower.  Taurus: April 20 – May 20 This sign represents the fixed earth in the zodiac cycle, and those who are born under this sign have Venus as their ruling planet. Tauruses are well-known for their stubborn nature, but they are also kind-hearted, patient and reliable. They appreciate beauty and have nurturing yet practical personalities. Tauruses can be rather active once they get started, but they love relaxing and tend to procrastinate. Many Tauruses are quite creative and artistic too. Known as “the sensualists,” Tauruses enjoy sophisticated scents. They also tend to gravitate toward warm, rich fragrances that evoke feelings of comfort and grounding. The Taurus candle includes base notes of musk and sandalwood paired with earthy aromas like cypress, balsam, verbena, oakmoss and agave.  Gemini: May 21 – June 20 Gemini is a mutable air sign, and people born under it are compelled by a need for change. They tend to jump from one activity to the next, often doing the same in relationships. Geminis are ruled by Mercury, and they tend to be excellent communicators. They’re also highly intellectual, quick-witted individuals. The Gemini in your life likely has a love for books, too, so a Gemini will love a book club candle. Sweet scents mixed with lovely florals form the perfect candle fragrance for Geminis. Cashmere musk, vanilla flower, lemon, tonka, rosemary, gardenia, and jasmine are all wonderful choices and are sure to please the Gemini in your life. The Gemini candle that features these scents can get even the most active and energetic Geminis to slow down and relax for a bit.  Cancer: June 22 – July 22 Cancers are natural-born nurturers. Ruled by the moon, they are sensitive to others’ feelings and care deeply about their loved ones. They are emotional and intuitive, and they often share the reclusive nature of crabs and the need to hide away from the world at times. However, they can also become aggressive — especially when someone they care about is treated unfairly. They can be a bit “crabby” when disturbed or when they feel their space is being infringed upon too. Cancers have a sweet nature, but they are also fiercely devoted to and protective of their loved ones. The ideal Cancer candle for someone born under this sign features sweet summer florals paired with more grounding scents like leather and patchouli. Cancer is a water sign, so the fragrance of water lilies is a common favorite. Violet, iris flower and Muguet are excellent options too.  Leo: July 23 – August 22 Leo is an energetic fire sign that’s well known for being fiercely loyal, passionate and dramatic. Represented by the lion, people born under the Leo signs are the kings (and queens, of course) of the zodiac jungle. Most Leos enjoy being in the spotlight and excel in leadership roles. They are also warm-hearted, creative, and willing to take chances. As noble romantics, they follow their hearts and do whatever it takes to achieve their desires. Leos are ruled by the sun and love sharing their warmth with the people they care about most. If you are looking for the perfect candle for a Leo, bold fragrances are essential. Delicate florals are not the best choice for this fiery sign! Instead, look for spicy scents like chili pepper, cinnamon bark, nutmeg and peppercorn mixed with bright citrus fragrances like mandarin. A splash of sugar cane or vanilla is a great way to round out the scent profile and add a touch of sweetness to appeal to Leo’s sweet side.  Virgo: August 23 – September 22 Virgo is an earth sign, but the speedy Mercury rules it. Virgos take a logical and systematic approach to life, and most are perfectionists at heart. When they are at their best, they are exceptional communicators and excel at practicality. They’re highly organized and have a natural knack for bringing structure to other peoples’ lives. They are also natural healers who are kind and loyal and carry a strong sense of humanity. They tend to stay busy and are the masters of getting things done quickly. If you have a task that needs to be done, give it to a Virgo! The goddess of agriculture and wheat traditionally represents the sign, so it makes sense that Virgos are drawn to natural, earthy fragrances. Woody scents paired with bright citrus and amber notes are perfect. Our Virgo candle features base notes of patchouli, cedar and musk with mid- and top notes of oud wood, clove, fresh citron and amber.  Libra: September 23 – October 22 Libras are all about balance — so much so that they are known as “The Diplomat.” Symbolized by the scales, Libras are a cardinal air sign. Their energy is defined by justice, harmony and balance, and most Libras strive for symmetry and equilibrium in all areas of their lives. They are primarily concerned with fairness and balance in romantic relationships. They possess excellent people skills and know how to deal with the complexities of human nature. Despite this, they are very selective about who they befriend and tend to have small social circles. Libras are drawn to soft, well-balanced fragrances, just like the Libra candle. Ruled by Venus, they appreciate beauty and enjoy lovely floral scents like lavender and honeysuckle. Bamboo, cedarwood, water lilies, water lotus and mineral spring aromas appeal to the harmonious nature of this sign as well.   Scorpio: October 23 – November 21 Scorpio is one of the most misunderstood signs in the entire zodiac. It is a fixed water sign ruled by both Pluto and Mars. They are well known for their aggressive nature, but they also have a charming softer side. Equal parts lone wolf and loyal partner, Scorpios are enchanting individuals who tend to be mysterious and elusive. They also have strong psychic and intuitive abilities. If you are fortunate enough to earn the affection of a Scorpio as either a friend or a romantic partner, they will be a passionate, resourceful and loyal part of your life.  Woodsy scents are the best option if you’re looking for a candle for the mysterious Scorpio. Evergreen, willow, balsam and fir needle fragrances are all excellent options. Combined with hints of musk, patchouli and even eucalyptus, these woody smells take an alluring air that will appeal to even the most discerning Scorpio.  Sagittarius: November 22 – December 21 Sagittarius is a fire sign that knows no limits. Ruled by the expansive and optimistic planet Jupiter, people born under this sign tend to have a positive outlook on life. Sagittarians are also curious and eager to learn. They enjoy traveling and experiencing new places, people and cultures. They are energetic and believe that anything is possible. And they have the drive and ambition to get wherever they want to go! Sagittarians are also some of the most caring and compassionate people you’ll ever have the privilege to meet.  If you’re looking for the perfect candle for a Sagittarius, one that blends smoky tobacco with fresh herbal scents is an excellent option. Lavender, sandalwood, vetiver, musk, tobacco, sage, verbena and thyme combine to create a unique and captivating fragrance any Sagittarius will love.  Capricorn: December 22 – January 19 Capricorns are ruled by Saturn and tend to be ambitious, serious individuals. They know the value of time and are passionate about growth and advancement. Patient and perseverant, they are skilled at navigating both emotional and material realms. Capricorns are very responsible, and they sometimes come off as demanding or dominant figures. They tend to take themselves seriously, but they can be a lot of fun when they let themselves relax.  The Capricorn in your life needs candles that feature classy, refreshing aromas. Since they are so level-headed, they don’t tend to enjoy fragrances that are too complex. Instead, they enjoy scents like cedar bark, white whiskey, tobacco and teakwood rounded out by citron, amber and bergamot, just like our Capricorn candle.  Aquarius: January 20 – February 18 Aquarius is an air sign that rules the age in which we live. Most Aquarians are forward-thinking individuals who thrive on idealistic values. They long to build communities based on truth and love, so it should come as no surprise that Aquarius is the most humanitarian zodiac sign. While they are passionate about making the world a better place, they are often unstable, making maintaining long-term relationships difficult. Most of the time, though, others are willing to overlook their instability and unusual ways because their bright, individualistic personalities outweigh them.  Bright, clean floral scents are perfect for the idealistic and loving Aquarius. Our Aquarius candle features top notes of cassis, plum blossom and fig combined with mid notes of coconut, mandarin and tamarind and base notes of pomegranate, rose and ylang-ylang.  Pair It with Our Date Night Candle for an Amazing Night In! Pisces: February 19 – March 20 The last sign of the zodiac, Pisces is a water sign ruled by Neptune. Pisces is the most sensitive, empathetic and intuitive sign because it has absorbed all the lessons of the other signs. The two fish swimming in opposite directions that symbolize Pisces represent the constant division in Pisces’ mind between reality and fantasy. Pisces are easily wounded emotionally, but they know that there is more to life than what can be seen. They often have strong spiritual sides and love the arts — particularly writing and music.  For the Pisces who loves candles, fragrances reminiscent of ocean breezes and water orchids are perfect. Our Pisces candles smell of each moss, white sands, driftwood and blue waves form an excellent base for cactus flower, eucalyptus, water orchid, aloe vera and Muguet to float upon. These dreamy, sea-soaked scents will surely appeal to the water-loving nature of Pieces.    Image Credits mountain beetle/Shutterstock.com

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The Power of Scent Memory & Why It’s Important

Everyone has experienced the memory-triggering power of scents. Just one whiff of a particular smell — whether pleasant or not-so-pleasant — can take you back to a specific moment in your life. Picking up the aroma of your father’s aftershave might take you back to your childhood, or the smell of lilies could transport you to a loved one’s funeral. Whether the experience is positive or negative, there is no denying that some of our most powerful memories are little more than a sniff away.  Source: OlScher/Shutterstock.com The power of scent memory is well documented, and research has uncovered strong links between smells, emotions and memories. If you want to fill your home with beautiful aromas and memories, candles with fragrances that remind you of positive times in your life are an excellent option. They make lovely gifts for new homeowners too. Read on to learn more about the power of scent memory and why it’s important.  Discover Our Memory Inspired Candles Why Scent Triggers Memories According to a study published in Process in Neurobiology, certain scents may trigger memories due to the connection between the hippocampus and the olfactory system in the human brain. The hippocampus is one of the brain’s most primitive regions. Responsible for things like memory, motivation, pain and pleasure, it also plays a role in forming memories. It also temporarily stores new memories. The olfactory system has a strong connection to the hippocampus. In fact, it has a stronger connection to the hippocampus than the body’s systems of sound, touch, taste and sight. This connection could explain why smelling certain aromas triggers such strong memories and emotions. Additional research has proven that scent is a more potent trigger for memories than any other sensory cue.  Why It’s Important Source: Design_Cells/Shutterstock.com The human olfactory system is widely under-appreciated. Evolutionary speaking, it is our oldest sensory system. It’s also the one located the deepest in our brains. Sense of smell is a critical tool for survival in the animal kingdom, and that’s true for humans too. While you may not spend your day consciously trying to sniff out danger, your brain will alert you that something is wrong if you detect the scent of smoke, melting plastic, or certain chemicals. In this way, your scent memory can help keep you safe.  Additionally, pleasant aromas can alleviate stress, anxiety and depression. For example, our Celebration candles can trigger happy memories on difficult days. Ignite our Bride’s Bouquet candle or one of our other Wedding collection candles, and you’ll instantly be transported back to your wedding day. Or indulge in our New Job candle when you feel burnt out by your career and need to remember the excitement of your first day.  Savor the Moment with a Just Married Candle When scents and memories intertwine, the association can live in your brain forever. The smells that soothed you as an infant — like the aroma of lavender-infused baby wash — may ease anxiety and stress in adulthood too. Scents that trigger negative emotions may not seem beneficial, but they are equally helpful. As humans, we subconsciously use our sense of smell to assess complex situations and new environments. Our scent memory lets us know whether we feel comfortable in various scenarios and can guide where we go, what we eat, and with whom we spend our time.  The Impact of Smell Loss To better understand the importance of your sense of smell, consider the impact of smell loss. Loss of smell is a common symptom of COVID-19. Decreased smelling abilities are also common in old age, and many neurodegenerative diseases can cause smell loss. Loss of smell is a common early symptom of Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s Diseases.  Interestingly, this loss of smell has been linked to depression and can decrease one’s quality of life. It impacts one’s ability to taste food and hinders the ability to detect danger. The inability to enjoy the positive memories triggered by scents is psychologically detrimental too.  While often under-valued, our ability to smell is one of our most powerful senses. Scent, memory, and emotion are intertwined, so it makes sense to surround yourself with fragrances that trigger your best memories and most positive feelings. Our memory candles are the perfect way to inspire happy emotions and form new memories for yourself and your loved ones. From our new home candle to candles featuring scents reminiscent of road trips, date nights, beach cottages and more, we have options that are sure to transport your back to the happiest times of your life.

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What Does Verbena Smell Like?

Verbena is a popular scent in home fragrance products, and verbena oil is widely used in everything from flower candles and reed diffusers to cleaning and aromatherapy products. Despite its prevalence, though, many people are unsure what it smells like.  Source: Scisetti Alfio/Shutterstock.com Verbena has been called everything from magician plant and pigeon grass to plant of mercy and cross plant throughout history. Today, the shrub from which verbena oil is derived is often referred to as lemon verbena or lemon beebrush because of its fruity, citrusy fragrance. Verbena has enjoyed a long, rich history, and it is a lovely aroma to enjoy in your home.  What Is Verbena?  The oils used to create verbena candles and other scented products come from the Verbena Officinalis, Thymus hiemallis and Lippia citriodora plants. These deciduous shrubs stand five to sixteen feet tall and grow naturally in China, Kenya, Morocco and the Mediterranean. The fragrance oil produced by distilling the freshly picked plant ranges from light yellow to olive green in color and has a distinctive, instantly recognizable fragrance.  What Does Verbena Smell Like?  Verbena starts with a refreshing, lemon-like scent that gradually transforms into a sweet, fruit aroma. It also has grassy notes reminiscent of citronella. The fragrance is lighter and cleaner than that of pure lemon, making it ideal for home fragrance products. It is also widely used in household cleaning products because of its ability to refresh any space without being overpowering or smelling like chemicals.  What Fragrances Pair Well with Verbena?  Verbena is a versatile fragrance that is especially captivating when combined with other aromas. As a citrusy scent, verbena pairs well with other citrus fragrances like mandarin and bergamot. It also blends nicely with spice aromas, including black pepper and cardamom. As a top note in personal care and home fragrance products, verbena works well with rose, lavender and other floral fragrances. Verbena smells fantastic with patchouli, sandalwood and neroli too. Love Verbena? Check Out These Homesick Candles!  Build a Bouquet with Our Floral Scented Candles If you would like to fill your home with the fresh scent of verbena, we have the perfect solutions. Several Homesick candles feature this invigorating aroma:  Sagittarius Candle Part of our Astrology collection, our Sagittarius candle features top notes of verbena, sage and thyme paired with mid notes of tobacco, vetiver and musk and base notes of sandalwood and lavender. The tobacco adds just a touch of smoke to this candle’s alluring herbal scent profile and is perfect for anyone with an adventurous side! Even if you weren’t born between November 22nd and December 21st, you can still enjoy this candle’s intoxicating fragrance. Light it up in your living room when you want to freshen up your space without doing any cleaning or keep it in your office for those days when you need an energy boost.  Taurus Candle Our Taurus candle features citrusy verbena as a top note alongside earthy agave and oakmoss. Mid-notes of blue cypress and balsam add a relaxing woodsy feel, while sandalwood and musk round out this sophisticated scent. Both grounding and uplifting, our Taurus candle is perfect for earth signs, but anyone can enjoy its captivating aroma. Ignite this candle when you’re settling in for a cozy date night or when you simply want to indulge your senses in its beautiful aroma. Even if you aren’t a Taurus, you’ll find something to love about this sensual and sophisticated fragrance.  Yellowstone Candle Transport yourself to the beauty and tranquility of Yellowstone National Park with our Yellowstone candle. This candle starts with refreshing top notes of verbena, valencia orange peel and neroli flower. Mid-notes of clove leaves, water hyacinth and blondwood add a softer touch, while amber crystal, washed driftwood and mists of musk provide a perfect balance. With one whiff, you’ll travel from your sofa to the edge of Old Faithful. Both soothing and exciting, our Yellowstone candle is a welcome addition to any room. It’s also an excellent choice for the office. Spending the day at your desk is much more enjoyable when you surround yourself with an aroma that provides a much-needed mental vacation!  Indulge Your Senses with Homesick Pair It with a Reed Diffuser for Even More Fragrance! Whether you love the energizing aroma of verbena or prefer something else, we have intriguing fragrances to suit any preference. Our candles make lovely and thoughtful gifts too. Browse our entire collection of home fragrance products today to find a new favorite for yourself or a loved one.

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The Scent Guide: What Does Teakwood Smell Like?

Teak is a dense hardwood that is native to south and southeast Asia. It has a golden color and features a smooth texture and grain. High in natural rubber and oils, it is strong and nearly impervious to rotting and extreme weather, even when left untreated. One of the fastest-growing tropical hardwoods, it is a popular choice for outdoor furniture.  Source: Patrick Foto/Shutterstock.com Teak is a common material in boat building, too. Its moisture resistance and minimal maintenance needs make it ideal for marine environments. In addition to being durable, teakwood has an alluring aroma that has become a much-loved home fragrance. At Homesick, we have teakwood-inspired products, including our Black Tuxedo Candle, that will surely appeal to your nature-loving senses. So, what does teakwood smell like? Let’s take a closer look.  What Does Teakwood Smell Like?  Teakwood is a bold, woodsy fragrance. It is a complex scent that appeals to a wide range of people, but most tend to think of it as a masculine scent. It has a rich, warm, and slightly spicy aroma you need to smell for yourself to completely appreciate. Reminiscent of cologne, it has a pleasant earthy aroma. However, it does not smell quite as much like a stroll through the forest as, say, balsam or spruce. It’s an excellent option when you’re looking for a natural fragrance with just a touch of perfume. Teakwood fragrances often include top notes of musk and amber paired with light hints of tobacco and leather. Patchouli and sandalwood also pair well with the aroma of teakwood. What does sandalwood smell like? Though sandalwood is a tree, the fragrance is not as woodsy as you might think. Instead, it has a sweet, warm, exotic aroma that pairs beautifully with teakwood and many other scents. Once you’ve experienced the scents of sandalwood and teakwood, you will instantly recognize them.  Benefits of Teakwood Fragrance Teakwood doesn’t just smell amazing. It is thought to have healing properties too. Its aroma has a natural calming effect, so keeping a teakwood candle on your nightstand and indulging in its soothing aroma before bed could help you get a better night’s sleep. Teakwood oil has also been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. Natural practitioners use it for everything from treating headaches and skin irritation to encouraging hair growth. The oil is also said to have antiasthmatic, laxative and antidiabetic properties.  Become One with Nature: Shop Our Earthy Scented Candles Our Teakwood-Scented Candles If you love — or think you would love — the scent of teakwood, we have you covered. Check out these teakwood-scented candles:  Black Tux Candle Our Black Tux candle is just as classy and elegant as a black tuxedo paired with freshly polished shoes. As part of our Wedding collection, it makes a great gift for the newlyweds in your life. It’s also a sophisticated option for any man who enjoys the finer things in life. This candle features top notes of leather, bergamot and smoked tobacco, along with mid notes of brushed suede, dark bourbon and santal. Base notes of vetiver, teakwood and cashmere musk provide a clean finish. If you are looking for a teakwood-inspired candle with an unforgettable aroma, you’ll love this one!  Capricorn Candle Part of our Zodiac collection, our Capricorn candle is a lovely choice when you need a gift for someone born between December 22nd and January 19th. Featuring mid-notes of teakwood and tobacco, it’s also perfect for anyone who enjoys the intoxicating scent of teak. This candle also has base notes of white whiskey and cedar bark for a masculine, woodsy feel. Top notes of citron, bergamot and amber provide a citrusy boost. Keep your Capricorn candle in your home office and light it when you need some inspiration to get through a difficult day. Or enjoy its refreshing aroma first thing in the morning to give yourself a bold, uplifting start to your day.  Conclusion Teakwood is a unique fragrance with broad appeal. Though primarily a masculine scent, touches of ylang-ylang, bergamot and florals make it appealing to make women too. This invigorating woodsy scent is a popular choice in candles and home fragrance products because it does an excellent job of bringing a bit of nature indoors without being overpowering. If you are looking for long-lasting candles with the alluring scent of teakwood, we have you covered. Check out the products linked above or spend some time browsing our complete collection to discover your home’s new signature scent.

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Perfect for a Gloomy Day: What Does Rain Smell Like?

Are you a pluviophile who lives for rainy days? Then let us shower you with candles in its lovely and fresh fragrance. But what does rain smell like? Glad you asked! In this thorough guide, we explore the science and origins behind the wonderful and fresh fragrance of rain. And then, we offer up some of our favorite rain-scented candles that will have your home smelling as vibrant and lush as a rainy spring day.  The Origin and Meaning of Petrichor  Pluviophile is what you call someone who loves the rain. But did you know there is a word for the smell of rain too? Petrichor is a Latin translation conjured up by Isabel “Joy” Bear and Richard Thomas, two CSIRO scientists who first used it to describe the smell of rain in their paper Nature of Argillaceous Odour published in the Nature journal. How did they come up with this word? Petrichor is derived from two Greek words: Petra, meaning stone and ichor meaning the ethereal blood of the gods. Together, this roughly translates as a divine blood in the stone. But how did Bear and Thomas come up with this translation? And why did they use the Greek word for “stone?” It’s simple, really, and all comes down to the science of why we can smell the rain.  The Science Behind the Smell of Rain Many people claim they can smell an approaching rainstorm — but how? Is it an imagined aroma we build up in our minds after seeing signs like the wind picking up or dark clouds rolling in? Or is it something more? Well, the science is in! It’s not your sixth sense or meteorologist insight, nor is it Mother Nature giving you a subliminal message. You can smell a storm coming and, yes, you can actually smell the rain! But what you are smelling isn’t necessarily the water droplets themselves. It’s a little more nuanced than that.  According to Scientific American, the smell of rain comes from two main sources: the oxygen in the atmosphere (mostly notably, ozone molecules) and the scent given off by various surfaces the rain touches. That “oncoming storm” smell is quite distinct. While not everyone can smell it, those who can know it all too well. A full-on thunderstorm, complete with lightning bolts that give off electric discharges, can create a pungent and sharp scent in the atmosphere. Believe it or not, this sharp and zingy scent is ozone. Essentially, lightning splits the nitrogen and oxygen molecules into two atmospheric atoms.  So how can you smell the ozone from all the way down on earth? As a thunderstorm rolls in, it creates gusts of air and strong breezes that carry down the ozone molecule scents from above.  The second source of that rainy day scent derives from the rain touching down and permeating the earth or surrounding materials. However, instead of smelling the ozone, you are smelling the potent earthy geosmin. Whether it’s soil and plants in the country or cobblestones or concrete of a city street, the surfaces release odoriferous molecules and aerosols into the air. MIT captured these aerosols being released through a high-speed camera!  Dry surfaces like a desert or dry grass often give off the strongest scent when penetrated by rain. This rain smell can be relative to your environment too! The smell of rain can be vastly different from a rural countryside to an urban cityscape. A soil filled with minerals and nutrients can give off an entirely different smell than a fern-covered forest or an asphalt road.  What Does Rain Smell Like? The chemical reaction that occurs when rain hits the earth — or anything for that matter — is what gives off that petrichor scent. Lightning, with its ability to give a downdraft of the ozone, plays a major role too. So what kind of aroma does this geosmin and ozone give off and what does rain smell like? As mentioned, rain can smell like a lot of things, depending on where you are. You may know by heart the smell of rain better in the region that you grew up in, and it could be distinctly different from where you currently reside. However, at the end of the day, rain smells a lot like the earth. Mainly, wet earth with its nutrient-rich soil, minerals and more. Rain smells fresh, for the most part, but it can also give off a musky, damp quality. Now that you know what rain smells like, doesn’t it sound refreshing and invigorating? Luckily, Homesick appreciates this unique aroma too. We have even carefully crafted a specific scent note for our candles called “Rain” that smells just like petrichor.  Feeling Moody? Match Your Mood with a Spicy Scented Candle The Best Rain-Scented Candles by Homesick Feel like you might be a pluviophile and love the petrichor scent of rain? Then you will love any one of these rain-scented candles by Homesick! Below are our best Homesick candles with Rain notes, along with a few others that give off the electrifying, recharging fresh scent. The United Kingdom Candle Like the puddled cobblestone streets of London and the countryside, too, the United Kingdom Candle offers a petrichor that is, oh, so familiar. Top notes of rain mingle with grass and bergamot as mid notes of a soothing Earl Grey tea and scrumptious apple crumb transport you across the pond. Sweet base notes of toffee, vanilla and sugar offer subtle undertones to the United Kingdom candle that remind you of a public house’s sticky toffee pudding or a mince pie.  The Seattle Candle Nothing says the rainy Pacific Northwest like the Seattle candle. However, instead of a hot cup of Earl Grey tea, this petrichor Rain scent goes along rather nicely with top notes of an earthy, dark-roasted coffee. Light this candle, and you feel like you’ve ducked into a downtown Seattle coffee shop to dry out from a rainy afternoon. Complementing the rain scent are pine needles and cedarwood that the Evergreen State is known for. With a hint of tart rhubarb and zesty lemon, this Seattle city candle is elevated to an amazingly fresh fragrance that anyone will love.  The Virginia Candle When you light up the Virginia candle, you can almost feel the storm clouds and rain rolling across the Shenandoah Valley. With mid-notes of Rain Water and the sweet smell of honeysuckle blossoms, paired with fir needle and pine, this soft rainfall scent captures the scent of the Old Dominion state perfectly. From the Chesapeake Bay’s sandalwood landscaped coastline along the Atlantic to the clove and musky aroma of the Appalachian Mountains that stretches through the wilderness and the booming town of Richmond, the Virginia candle sums up this state rather well.   The Kansas Candle Skip a few states west into the midwestern United States, and you get a warmer, more sunny scent. The Kansas candle is infused with the smell of grassy plains and sunflower fields covered in fresh morning dew or the dry earth opening up after an evening rainstorm. Beneath the surface of the Kansas candle are soft undertones of pungent lime and lemon like thunderstorms breaking the ozone and the scent of fresh cotton, musk and amber lending a dry warmth to the moisture.  The Book Club Candle If you love to curl up with a good book on a rainy day, then the Book Club candle is for you! While it doesn’t have our signature Rain note fragrance, it is nonetheless the perfect candle for introverts, bookworms and anyone who simply loves a good excuse to stay indoors and read.  With notes of a delicate woodsy balsam and sandalwood with a warm amber, the Book Club candle calls to mind a library filled with countless shelves of leather-bound books and the delicate paper between them. Top notes of a zesty orange and mid notes of spicy cinnamon carry the charming fragrance of the Book Club candle throughout the space with each turn of a page. If you love the Book Club candle but prefer a flameless scent for your home, then be sure to check out our Book Club reed diffuser. Each of Homesick’s reed diffusers lend the same scent as its candle version, but with a four-ounce bottle of a handcrafted blend with essential oils. Non-toxic and free of harmful chemicals and synthetics, our reed diffusers make a perfect gift for just about anyone. To renew the scent and keep it fresh, simply flip the reeds every two to three weeks. Or save the scent for a rainy day and cap the bottle.    Discover All of Our Fresh Scented Candles The Galapagos Island Candle When the wet season rolls into the pristine and paradise-like Galapagos Islands, it brings with it a tropical climate with daily rain and cloudy skies. If you are lucky enough to visit these remote volcanic archipelago islands of the Pacific Ocean, then you will adore the Galapagos Island candle. But you might love this Homesick candle even more if this isolated destination is still on your bucket list.  With top notes of Rain Water, the Galapagos Island candle carries the subtle hints of woodsy and wild palo santo and moss reminiscent of its inlands forests and sandy coastlines. Sweeter notes of prickly pear, zesty citron and coconut give it that tropical feel as floral notes of Lily of the Valley offer a delicate and subtle aroma.  The Vancouver Candle Cool mountain breezes make their way through Vancouver, a British Columbian city that offers the best of everything: a salty sea air coming in from the Strait of Georgia met by the mountain air and rain of the Canadian wilderness. Just like this city on the harbor, the Vancouver candle brings a lot of earthy scents that are sure to invigorate you and lend your space a refreshing aroma.  With top notes of Ocean Waters, Mountain Air and Rain combined, the Vancouver candle lends a wet and musky scent that mingles pleasantly with a zesty Citron. Mid-notes of Douglas Fir and Cedarwood lend a warm woodsiness to the scent, as base notes of Patchouli bark and wild Hemp elevate it ever-so-slightly. Last but not least, a base note of Hops completes the smell of Canada’s Craft Beer capital.  The Montreal Candle Another Canadian candle that offers a rain smell is the Montreal candle. With top notes of Rain and a scent that reminds one of wet cobblestone streets of this French Canadian city, it makes you feel like meandering through the Underground City in search of delicious treats. With a top note of a freshly baked baguette, you don’t have to look far. Undertones of a smoky tobacco and rosewood mingle with a warm vanilla and guaiac wood for an old-world city aroma.  The Gone Hiking Candle While there is not a Rain scent exactly, the Gone Hiking candle does transport you to a misty waterfall among moss-covered rocks that gives off an invigorating fresh aroma to a space. With top notes of Fresh Waters, combined with woodsy Pine and rich, fruity Cassis, the Gone HIking candle makes you appreciate nature in all its glory — even the falling rain and deep puddles along the trail. Notes of Sandalwood, Jasmine, Moss and Ivy complete the Gone Hiking candle.  Rain and Other Fresh-Smelling Scents What does rain smell like, exactly? It may not be the sugar, spice and everything nice that some noses prefer, but it’s petrichor does appeal to many pluviophiles. And if you enjoy the fresh scent of our signature Rain, then you just might like the earthy, floral scent of Lavender too. What does Lavender smell like? With a light and bright floral scent, Lavender candles complement a rain-scented candle quite nicely. Like a Lavender field after a rainstorm.  Explore rain candles, Lavender candles and more at Homesick to find your signature scent.   Image Credits AlexMaster/Shutterstock.com Kobee/Shutterstock.com azem/Shutterstock.com Kichigin/Shutterstock.com

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