When you step through the door of your home after a long day, what’s the first thing that greets you? Is it the soft lighting, the elegant decor or perhaps the inviting comfort of your favourite armchair?
As important as these are, there’s one sensory experience that can truly transform your space, subtly influencing your mood and setting the tone for your evening – scent. From the intoxicating aroma of blooming flowers to the comforting smell of warm spices, a candle’s fragrance can turn your home into a haven of relaxation.
But how do you know which scent is right for you? At Charles Farris, we understand the power of fragrance and how to match it to your room and mood. This blog will take you through the key fundamentals, covering the following topics:
- Understanding fragrance notes
- The most common scents
- Matching scents to your mood
- Choosing scents for each room
Understanding fragrance notes
A fragrance note is a layer of scent that makes up the overall aroma of a candle. There are typically three notes: top, middle (also known as heart), and base.
Top notes are the scents you initially detect when you first light your candle. They are usually lighter, more volatile fragrances that evaporate quickly, making way for the heart of the fragrance. Think of citrusy or herbal scents like lemon, bergamot or lavender.
Middle notes, or the heart notes, start to emerge as the candle burns longer. These are the scents that characterise the body of the fragrance. They last longer than top notes but are less enduring than base notes. Examples might include floral or spicy scents like rose, jasmine, or cinnamon.
Base notes are the last to develop, but they linger longest, providing a lasting impression and depth to the fragrance. These are typically rich, deep scents like sandalwood, vanilla, or amber.
The most common scents
Cedar
This is a rich, aromatic blend that’s perfect for creating a cosy and comforting ambience. The smoky undertones make it a versatile middle note that can be combined with rich fragrances, such as incense and amber.
Jasmine
This floral fragrance has a delicate and intoxicating aroma. It’s ideal for creating a serene and romantic atmosphere, perfect for bedrooms, relaxation areas, and any space that could benefit from a touch of elegance.
Vanilla
Known for its warm, sweet, and comforting aroma, vanilla is a classic scent in the world of candles. It brings a sense of comfort and relaxation, working as a base note in many fragrances, rounding off and enhancing other scents to give them a richer depth. It’s ideal for creating a welcoming and cosy atmosphere in your home.
Lavender
Lavender is universally loved for its soothing, calming properties. Often associated with rest and relaxation, the scent of lavender is perfect for those looking to create a peaceful, tranquil atmosphere in their home.
Citrus
Citrus scents – including lemon, lime, orange, and grapefruit – are renowned for their energising and uplifting qualities. These scents are fresh, bright, and clean, often evoking feelings of joy and positivity.
Festive
Festive scents encompass a broad range of aromas and could include the warm, spicy smell of cinnamon, the invigorating scent of pine, or the comforting aroma of cedar.
Floral
Floral scents such as rose, jasmine, or peony can vary greatly but are generally associated with romance, elegance, and beauty. Floral candles can bring the sensation of an English garden into your home, creating a serene and tranquil atmosphere.
Matching scents to your mood
Energising scents for the morning
A scent that awakens your senses and gets your mind in gear is a perfect way to start the day. Look for candles that feature invigorating citrus notes like lemon, lime, or grapefruit. These bright, crisp scents are known for their ability to clear the mind and boost energy levels, making them perfect for the morning. Herbal fragrances like rosemary or mint could also serve as energising scents due to their fresh and uplifting aroma.
Relaxing scents for the evening
As day turns to evening and it’s time to unwind, you’ll want to turn to scents that promote relaxation and tranquillity. Search for candles featuring notes of lavender or chamomile, both of which are well-known for their soothing properties. Additionally, earthy and woody fragrances like sandalwood or patchouli can also help create a calming atmosphere, perfect for easing into a restful night.
Romantic scents for special occasions
For an intimate dinner or a romantic evening at home, you’ll want to fill your space with an aroma that creates a warm and inviting ambiance. Look for candles with floral notes like rose or jasmine. You could also consider a candle with a sophisticated blend of exotic spices and deep, rich base notes like musk or amber to add a touch of mystery and allure to the evening.
Comforting scents for the weekend
Whether you’re relaxing with your favourite book, or having a slow Sunday at home, a candle featuring warm vanilla or honeyed amber can create the ultimate cosy ambiance. Lavender will give your home a soothing feel, and can be mixed with scents like rosemary or mint for a more complex experience.
Choosing a scent for each room
The living room: Inviting and comfortable scents
Look for warm, rich scents like vanilla or sandalwood. These comforting fragrances can make the space feel more welcoming. Alternatively, a soft floral or fruity scent can also work well in a living room, creating a relaxed and pleasant atmosphere.
The kitchen and dining area: Fresh and appetising scents
In the kitchen and dining area, the aromas of food often reign supreme. Opt for fresh and light scents that complement rather than compete with cooking smells. Citrus-based fragrances like lemon, lime, or grapefruit can help cleanse the air and provide a clean scent. Herbaceous scents like basil or rosemary can also complement these areas well, mirroring the herbs often used in cooking.
The bedroom: Soothing and relaxing scents
Soothing scents like lavender or chamomile are classic choices for this space, known for their calming properties. Alternatively, a soft, romantic scent like rose or jasmine could also work well, creating a sense of tranquillity and peace in your personal retreat.
The home office: Stimulating scents
Consider fragrances that have refreshing and revitalising properties, like mint or citrus, as these scents are known to help increase alertness and concentration. Woody scents like pine or cedar can also be beneficial, offering a calming influence that can help to reduce stress levels during a busy workday.
Bringing scents into your home
When you choose a scented candle for your home, it’s important to remember the three fragrance notes. Each one plays a vital role in your overall experience of the candle. The top notes draw you in, the middle notes form the main body of the scent, and the base notes provide a lasting fragrance that imbues your space long after the candle has been extinguished.
Remember, fragrance can deeply impact our emotions and behaviour, so consider the purpose of each room and the mood you want to inspire when choosing a candle. Charles Farris has remained at the forefront of fragrance and candle making for generations. Our exquisite range of scents can truly enhance your living experience and create a home that is uniquely yours. Explore our selection to transform your space.
