Think of a high-end resort, spa or shop. What do they all have in common (besides being expensive)? They usually smell amazing. Take a look around and you’re likely to spot more than one neutral-toned pot emitting wafts of tuberose, amber or neroli. To recreate that experience in your home, you may think you need to spend a lot on designer candles. Thankfully, there’s a better way to create a relaxing, elevated atmosphere in your space.

If you need a new home fragrance or a last-minute gift idea, keep reading to learn about the mid-priced brand making luxury candles you’ll be happy to give and receive.

If you love … Diptyque’s Feu de Bois Medium Candle ($98)

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The chicness of a Diptyque candle is without question. Their gorgeous vessels are worth hanging onto and this woodsy, 300 g candle is one of their classics and perfect for cozy winter nights. I’ve splurged on one of their gorgeous candles before and while the quoted average burn time is 75 hours, I encountered an issue that put me off repurchasing: tubing. After following the product recommendations, I was left with a significant amount of wax once the wick was gone which made the cost even harder to justify, no matter how amazing it smelled.

Buy … Apotheke’s Firewood Ceramic Scented Candle ($46)

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If you’re a longtime reader of MIDDI (thank you!) Apotheke is a home goods brand you’re sure to recognize (previously featured here and here). I love the minimal designs and elegant fragrances of their Brooklyn-made candles. They blend in with any decor and really make your home feel like more of a high-end retreat. This candle has toasty notes of cedarwood, cardamom, nutmeg, patchouli and birch tar. Best of all, it weighs in at 369 g and melts down completely with an average burn time of 60 to 70 hours for half the price of the Diptyque option.

In case you missed this year’s MIDDI gift guides …

2023 Beauty Gift Guide Petra Canan Trudell · Nov 13 Read full story

2023 Fashion Gift Guide Petra Canan Trudell · Nov 20 Read full story

2023 Home Gift Guide Petra Canan Trudell · Nov 27 Read full story

MIDDI is a weekly roundup of mid-priced beauty, fashion and home buys released every Monday. Have a product you’re searching for? Leave your suggestions in the comments.