Why Scented Candles Make the Best Gifts

This year, you will likely be racking your brain trying to think of gift ideas for any number of people who range from very close loved ones to random recipients of White Elephant during the holiday season.

Fear not. There is one gift that is almost universally appreciated, even by those who initially may scoff at it. I’m talking, of course, about candles.

So, what makes candles such a universally acceptable gift? Here are a few of the major benefits of adding scented candles to your gift repertoire.

 

Natural Light

You don’t have to be a romantic to appreciate the soft, warm glow of a candle. In world that is increasingly besieged by the glare of screens, give your eyes (and your brain) a break and enjoy some lovely candlelight. Scientists have begun to study the effects of artificial light, broadly concluding that it has completely changed our sleep cycles. Viewing screens at night (as we all do) can restrict melatonin and make the brain more alert. Reducing artificial light may help calm you and likely help you sleep better than you would staring into your Instagram feed just before bed. And if your gift recipient is like most of us, she could probably use a little more sleep.

Candle Pairing: Escapist

Aromatherapy

A balanced, scented candle can do wonders for your mood, bringing back joyful memories or awakening a sense of calm in the mind. Turning to science once again, there are numerous studies that demonstrate the power of smell in evoking emotions and memories. There is also evidence that the right smells can help reduce anxiety, promote wellness, and in the case of lavender in particular, even help with chronic pain.

Candle Pairing: Pick 3 Gift Set

Energy (and Money) Savers

Although it may not be advisable to read for extended periods of time in candle light, turning off artificial lights for a while to enjoy a book, a meal, or a conversation can also help save on energy consumption as well as your monthly bill. This may appeal to the more pragmatic, energy-conscious, or frugal among gift recipients.

Candle Pairing: Gold Travel Tins

Coziness

Candles are cozy. They just are. No science needed for this one, but if you need to try out an experiment, light your favorite candle, grab a blanket, curl up on the couch, and measure whether or not the cozy factor has increased. If it hasn’t, add some hot tea or cocoa and repeat.

Candle Pairing: Noir

Beauty

Part of the allure of candle light is almost inexplicable, perhaps the reason why candles have been used in religious and meditative practices for centuries. We are drawn to their beauty, the way the flame dances on the wick and warms the room in its soft glow. At its best, the candle vessel will also evoke a sense of beauty, whether that is simple and clean, modern, whimsical, unusual or more ornate. Combining both form and function, candles allow us to express our design aesthetic and scent preferences, while also drawing us into a relaxed, meditative state.

Candle Pairing: Minimalist

Unisex

Much like the late, great David Bowie, candles are hip, shiny, and not conventionally male or female. Whether you prefer aromas that are floral, woodsy, earthy, citrusy, or anything in between, there is a scent that appeals to all of us.

Candle Pairing: Pink Disco

Accessorize!

It may not be obvious that candles have accessories...but we think every ritual deserves its own special set of accoutrement. While our style is mostly minimal, we enjoy a pop of color. If you are shopping for someone with a bit of flare, we’ve got the goods. From gold wick trimmers to our chic, colorful matches, we have all the accessories for that hip guy or gal on your list.

Pairing: Match Box

 

So, are you ready to help your friends and family get lit!? We hope you’ll check out some of our gift ideas and give the gift that everyone (sometimes secretly) will appreciate.