Small Batch Candles That Will Make You Melt

Even with my recent obsession with aromatherapy diffusers, I still hold a special place in my heart for candles. That warm, burning light, crackles, and aroma that fills the whole room, it's something so simple and so beautiful.

I've always loved candles. They were a luxury, like most things, when I was young. I have graduated from cheap, quick burning candles to quality small-batch artisanal candles. Candles with warmth and depth of aroma are my favorite. I like woodsy blends, nothing too sweet. Though I love vanilla, I do not like vanilla candles. I love floral accompanied by darker, musky scents.

I heard the hype associate with P.F. Candle Co., I still wanted to try it. Maybe it was because of the hype, the simple apothecary packaging, I was curious about this scent, Teakwood & Tobacco. It's deep and strong, but not overwhelming and it does not spell like a pipe room. The woodsy tobacco is perfect for a cool fall evening.

I had not heard of Frostbeard Studio candles before I was gifted a few myself. They're quite a perfect gift for me, a bibliophile and candle lover. Most of the candles are references to fantasy young adult novels, not my favorite genre, but I am definitely not a stranger. This scent, Bookstore is a blend of mahogany, leather, coffee, and driftwood meant to imitate the look and feel of bookstores. It's a beautiful, earthy scent. I have also burned Oxford Library, which I liked even more. It's a blend of leather, oakmoss, amber, and sandalwood. The brand packaging is not as classic as I would like; it's a bit too cartoonish, but I enjoy the product nonetheless.

Linwood Candle Co. is a relatively new candle brand, born in Buffalo with great aesthetic and fantastic aroma blends. I discovered Linwood via their gorgeous Instagram. It's important to me to support Buffalo businesses. The people in Buffalo are so creative and talented. The arts community is inspiring. Most of the artists in Buffalo also have other jobs, so they really hustle for their art. Even if you were to take out my preoccupation with Buffalo goods, I can honestly say that this is my favorite candle brand. It burns so long and the aroma is on point. Linwood carries about a dozen scents. The candle that I have burning right now is Adirondack Woods. It is complex, but not overwhelming, and reminds me of my childhood growing up in the Adirondacks. Like a perfume, it has top. middle, and base notes. The top notes are fruity, middle notes are floral, and base notes are woodsy. It's an inspiring blend. I have also tried the lavender tea lights, and even with a single note, the candles are just as lovely. It's clear that their fragrance and aromatherapy oils are quality.

What are some of your favorite artisanal candle companies?