The ultimate home fragrances for every holiday occasion

In the same way that different perfumes paired with certain situations can affect our mood, the same can be done for your home through the use of diffusers and candles.

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The scent of your home can affect people as much as the colour of paint on the wall. So when it comes to choosing a scent to match the atmosphere or ‘vibe’ of an occasion, the right home fragrance can transform your surroundings. And since there’ll be plenty of reasons in the coming weeks to spark up a new wick, follow our guide on how to choose the right home fragrance, depending on the occasion.

If you’re hosting Christmas lunch…

There’s nothing quite like the smell of a Christmas tree. The unmissable scent of pine brings about feelings of happiness and festivity. So if you’re hosting the Yuletide antics this year, keep the festive cheer burning long into the evening with fragrances that capture the essence of an Australian Christmas. Think fresh summer scents like citrus, pavlova and pine.

bh recommends: Glasshouse Fragrances Christmas Cheer Triple Scented Candle, Peppermint Grove Christmas Pine Candle, Diptyque Le Roi Sapin Candle, Damselfly 'Happy Holidays, Fruitcake' Candle, Molton Brown Vintage 2015 with Elderflower Single Wick Candle, Crabtree & Evelyn Festive Fig Home Fragrance Spray

If you’ve got the girls coming over for drinks…

The bubbly is chilling in the fridge, the cheese plate is sorted and your girlfriends are en route. The only thing left to do is pick your fragrance. Instead of spending a small fortune packing the house with fresh blooms, try filling the home with an intoxicating floral fragrance instead. Sweet notes are ideal for creating a positive and inviting atmosphere – the perfect accompaniment for celebratory cocktails with the girls.  

bh recommends: BYREDO Fleur Fantôme Holiday Candle, Glasshouse Fragrances Caracas Frangipani Triple Scented Candle, L’OCCITANE Cherry Blossom Gourmand Candle, MOR Correspondence Fragrant Candle, Bella Freud Je T’Aime Jane Candle

If you’re putting on an end of year work function…

For this occasion, try a scent that’s welcoming, without being too over-the-top. Aromatic fragrances are an ideal option, and notes like eucalyptus, rosemary, sage and lavender aren’t only uplifting, but help get the creative juices flowing.

bh recommends: Natio Home Scent Spray Mist - Lavender, Circa Home Honeyflower & Sandalwood Classic Candle, Jo Malone London Lavender & Lovage Home Candle, Diptyque Eucalyptus Candle

If you’ve got a romantic evening for two planned…

Candles are a no-brainer for a night in with your significant other. The best way to transform your space into an intimate one is to go oriental with spice and wood. These exotic and sensual notes create a romantic mood that both men and women can indulge in.

bh recommends: ECOYA The Botanicals by ECOYA Midnight Orchid Botanic Jar, MOR Emporium Fragrant Candle in Candied Vanilla, Jo Malone London Dark Amber & Ginger Lily Home Candle, Aromaxioma Aphrodisiac Essential Oil Blend

If you’re throwing a New Year’s Eve bash…

With a house full of guests, you’ll want a scent that’s a real crowd-pleaser. Energising, joyful scents like citrus are your best burners to ring in the new year with. When entertaining large groups, it’s important to keep in mind fragrances that appeal to most people. Citrus notes are known for their mood-boosting, energising properties and aren’t overpowering or off-putting.

bh recommends: Glasshouse Fragrances Cuba - Pineapple Tangerine and Cherry Triple Scented Candle, Vanessa Megan Mint and Citrus Room Spray, MOR Neroli Clementine Fragrant Candle, ECOYA Celebration Candle

If you’ve gone into total holiday mode...

With so many parties, lunches and celebrations on, sometimes you just want to slow things down and unwind. If you’re looking to indulge in some r&r, calming, fresh notes will help you make the most of your summer escape. Think of an afternoon nap with the seaside breeze keeping you cool.

bh recommends: Tom Dixon Elements Air Candle, Circa Home Mango & Papaya Classic Candle, In Essence The Essence of Australia Aromatic Reeds

Are you hosting any dinners or parties these holidays? How will you set the mood?