Candlelight has transformative powers; the gentle flickering warm hues can make even the coldest of spaces feel more welcoming, while soothing away many of the worries that may be on our minds. What may often seem like a little indulgence reserved for the chillier months can actually be something to be enjoyed all year round, offering not only a restorative emotional quality – but helping to effortlessly fill a space and offer a delicate scent too. I’ve always got a candle on the go, no matter where in the house (don’t underestimate the power of garden candles either!) I am; although some of my most used and favourite brands are recognisable and relatively mainstream, I do like to dabble in ‘under the radar’ names that bring something extra special to my surroundings. Often an independent brand will be offering something unexpected and truly evocative, as well as allowing you to support someone’s dream… And these three independent British candle brands do all that and more.
Naomi Joy Living (£29.00)
I’m not even sure how or where I discovered this brand, but I’m definitely glad I did. The scents themselves feature unusual but evocative combinations (such as Wisteria & White Tea, Lemongrass & Lime and Pineapple & Pomelo) that burn to leave a subtle lingering scent in any room, but for me it’s the quirky names and packaging that’s an unexpected delight. I bought myself a F*?king Fabulous candle (Rose & Pink Pepper) just because it made me smile and I thought I needed the mojo boost, but the scent is so delicious I’ve gone back for more – my mum received a ‘Mother Like No Other’ candle for Mother’s Day, while my mates will certainly be receiving these for future birthday celebrations. The candles are hand-poured and manufactured in Britain too.
2204 Candles* (£24.00)
Created by a “6’2, broad shouldered, shaved head, tattooed, Scottish” ex-music tour manager, 2204 is not what you’d expect from your usual candle brand. The dark jars set the scene for scents that linger in a sultry and intense way, holding combinations of unexpected and traditionally more masculine notes that make this a great brand for anyone sick of florals. With scents on offer that include Cuban Cigar & Cognac, Smoked Oak & French Vanilla and Espresso & Pala Santo, 2204 Candles is refreshing and somewhat unique; as soon as I light my candle I know the room will be filled with something soothing on the soul. All the candles are 100% vegan, cruelty free and sustainable – and they’re made using ethically sourced soy wax, carefully selected scented oils and fully recyclable packaging. I’ve got my eye on the Summer Cherry & Gurbandi Almond for summer!
Crosskey Avenue* (£39.00)
Each of the candles is inspired by a destination that left a mark on the founder, underpinning the pure passion for creating scents that bring about an emotional connection or that have transformative powers; who doesn’t want to be transported to a tropical island as soon as they light the wick? Langkawi, inspired by Malaysia’s tropical island, contains exotic frangipani, milky coconut, fresh lemongrass and sandalwoodto provide the perfect combination of depth and freshness. Not only does it look beautiful, thanks to the frosted glass container, but its subtle scent lingers even when it’s not being actively burned. The candles are made in England, contain the highest quality soy blended wax, are sustainable and recyclable – with the outer boxes made using Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified cardboard.
Lighting up a candle really can make everything seem so much better… So why not do it with style!
Which of these three independent British candle brands would you most like to see on your coffee table?
Get the most of your candle with my top tips on How To Look After A Candle Properly.
Discover 8 Amazing Ways To Re-Use Your Candle Jar when you’re done burning.
*AD: press samples sent with no obligation to feature.
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