Cinnamon Scent-sation

A lovely scented home is a real treat. It makes such a difference to your mood and well being. I actually found some old notes from a lecture I went to about fragrance where I was told that fragrance can even increase alertness and therefore productivity in the work place. When it comes to fragrance for the home, especially candles, it is hard to find one that is not too overpowering and actually smells like the ingredients within. Floris candles and scents are ones we would have most likely grown up with or at least be familiar with. I had never tried a Floris candle before, so I was blown away by the Cinnamon and Tangerine variety that was totally sweet with exotic fruity tones.

Each candle is hand-poured and blended with pure fragrance oil. This ensures an all-enveloping aroma that actually smells like it says on the tin. Plus, it comes with a super dinky little lid and cork mat to complete the experience. With a minimum of burning time of 35 hours, that's a lot of delicious cinnamon to enjoy.

Floris Cinnamon and Tangerine Scented Candle, £40.00

Romantic Mathematics

 
Ahh, the joy of preparing for Valentine's Day. Although I am not a commercial sucker (but I am a girl at heart) I still want romance. One indulgence of mine is scented candles. There is few things more unromantic than the lingering smell of last night's fish supper.

Davina Peace makes the most stunning scented candles. This one, Memory No. 3 is a warming mix of mulled spices, cinnamon and ginger. My god, it sounds like my favourite dessert. Plus, I am adding her Hand Cream to my already extensive 'hand cream wardrobe'. The Green Tea extract and organic Aloe Vera Leaf should sort of out chapping mitts.

Soft hands + heavenly smell in the home = ROMANCE.

Davina Peace Candles, from £29

Davina Peace Hand Cream, £28

The Herb of Relaxation

As I have already established my love of all things coconuts and all things roses, falling straight in to third place, or higher sometimes, is my love of all things lavender.

There is nothing more soothing a smell than lavender. And actually, when I thought about it, I have lavender all over the house. In little pouches in my drawer (thanks Natasha!), in dried form in my grandma's old vase, in my soapdish and even the scent of my mothballs. The last being the least exciting.

For the most relaxing scent lavender is king. I have actually sniffed out a lot of lavender on the high street and L'Occitane's range has the most authentic smell. I have found others too sweet (Roger & Gallet), too cologne-y (Crabtree & Evelyn) or just not right (Yardley). This one smells like the real deal. The Bath Foam is so scented, it's the next best thing to having a bath in the middle of a lavender field. It's utter bliss. And add the lavender candle for good measure. You'll have a total lavender-fest on your hands. And a guaranteed good night's sleep of course.

L'Occitane Lavender Foaming Bath , 18.00

L'Occitane Lavender Scented Candle, 16.00

Purify My Love

I have always wanted to make my home warm, cozy and inviting. In other words, a haven from the weather outside. One of my indulgences is scented candles. A good quality scented candle is worth its weight in gold.

I know Muji does nice colourful ones under £5, however, like cheap chocolate, after a couple of bites it's too sweet and sickly. So a luxurious candle is a worthy investment. On a trip to New York some years ago, my friend gave me a beautiful candle for my birthday that lasted for months. And every time I sniffed it, it reminded me of the little boutique she used to work in and my summer in the city. Ever since then, I have wanted to have at least one luxury candle at hand.

One of my favourite organic brands, Shiffa from Dubai has a gorgeous selection of candles. The Purifying Gem Stone candle is scented with orange flower, grapefruit and lily, designed to lift your mood, yet create an atmosphere of calm serenity. I just heard thunder outside, so that would be just perfect.

Shiffa Purifying Gem Stone, £31