How to Create a Candle Routine That Works for You

Lighting a candle might seem like a small thing, but it can have a big impact. Whether it’s helping you focus at work, feel more present at home, or simply unwind at the end of the day, scent has a way of gently shifting your mood.

That’s the idea behind the Specially Made candle range, a collection of purpose-led scents created in collaboration with participants from the Intellectual Disability Foundation of St George and Scentsmith Anslie Walker.  

Here’s how you can create a candle routine that naturally fits into your day.

Step 1: Think About Your Daily Flow 

Start by thinking about how your typical day flows. When do you feel rushed, scattered, or just in need of a reset? Are there parts of your day that feel like a blur or moments where you’d like to feel more grounded or calm?

Common anchor points could include:

• First thing in the morning, when you need a slow, clear start

• The post-lunch lull, when energy dips and you need to refocus

• That awkward ‘after work, before dinner’ space when you're transitioning between roles

• Evenings when you're ready to switch off and settle in

You don’t need to plan every hour, just identify one or two points in your day where a small, scent-based ritual could help mark a shift in energy or mindset.

Step 2: Choose the Right Candle for the Moment 

Each Specially Made candle is designed with a particular emotional state in mind. Not just to smell nice, but to serve a purpose. For example, here are 3 scents that work beautifully on their own, or as part of a simple scent ritual throughout your day.

• Drive: With notes of lemon, ginger, and musk, it’s a great scent to support concentration and clarity. Ideal for work, study, or starting your day.

“It’s fresh, clean, and helps clear mental clutter,” says Ainslie.

• Mr. Olympia: Citrus, sandalwood, and cedarwood create a grounding scent that’s great for transitions, like moving house, seasonal changes, and relationship milestones.

“It’s social and comforting,” Ainslie adds. “Good for shared spaces or simply reconnecting with yourself.”

• Snuggle: A soothing, sweet scent to help you relax and slow down. Perfect for evenings or quiet moments.

“It helps cue your body and mind that it’s time to rest.”

Step 3: Keep Your Candle Routine Simple 

You don’t need to build a whole new habit or morning routine, just pair your candle with something you already do.

Some ideas:

• Light Driver while making your morning coffee and setting up your desk

• Burn Mr Olympia in the background while you prep dinner or pour a glass of wine.

• Let Snuggles flicker softly while you change into your PJs and wind down for the evening.

You’re not aiming for perfection. You’re just adding a small moment of awareness to something you’re already doing.  

Step 4: Let It Grow With You 

The beauty of scent is that it works quietly in the background. You don’t have to meditate, journal, or chant affirmations for a candle to work its magic (though you totally can). Sometimes, just lighting it is enough.

Some days, you might lean heavily on Drive to get through a stack of work. Other days, you might only light Snuggle for ten minutes before bed. Let it be flexible. Let it meet you where you are.

More Scents to Explore

Adorabubble has a rosy aroma that will uplift your mood.

Shadow’s leather, cedarwood, and musk notes create a sophisticated and seductive atmosphere perfect for date nights and general confidence boosting.

Fruituta Colada is perfect for a summer reset, bringing a tropical holiday air into your home.

Very Berry and Champagne Strawberry are ideal for celebrations and big events, energising the room with bright berry and floral notes.

A Daily Ritual That Gives Back

Every candle in the Specially Made range is hand-poured by people with intellectual disabilities, as part of a supported employment program run by the Intellectual Disability Foundation of St George.

It’s not just about creating a great product. It’s about creating opportunity, purpose, and pride.

So, when you burn a Specially Made candle, you’re also helping light the way for someone else.