Summer might be clinging on for dear life, but autumn is already beckoning candlepreneurs to get creative. And according to Google Trends, it’s about time you start preparing for one of the busiest times of the year—September, when candle sales skyrocket. It's like clockwork; as soon as that first leaf turns golden, everyone wants their homes to smell like a pumpkin spice latte is constantly brewing in their kitchen.
Let's be honest, though: pumpkin spice isn't the only scent of autumn. It’s got its inevitable charm, but there's a whole world of warm, earthy and cosy fragrances just waiting to be discovered. Whether you're a candle connoisseur or just looking to spice up your own handmade candles, we've got you covered.
So, while PSL is great, don't be afraid to branch out––a new, exciting autumn scent might be just the thing to inspire new customers to buy from your candle company! We're about to reveal some serious inspo for your autumn candles: think cosy evenings by the fire, spiced cider simmering on the stove and maybe even a hint of woodsmoke in the air. Your customers will be hooked and their homes will smell divine.
What makes a fragrance feel like autumn?
So, what exactly makes a fragrance scream "autumn"? It's all about capturing those cosy vibes and nostalgic feels. Think crackling bonfires, crisp walks through piles of leaves and the comforting warmth of a chunky knit jumper.
Essentially, it's about bottling up that unique feeling of autumn and transforming it into a scent that can fill your home with all those warm and fuzzy feelings. We're talking about those classic notes of cinnamon, clove and nutmeg, but also the unexpected—like smoky woods, juicy apples and maybe even a hint of leather. It's a sensory adventure, and your autumn candles can be the ticket.
8 fragrance top picks for Autumn candles
To help you create candles that truly capture the essence of autumn, we've rounded up eight irresistible fragrance blends that go beyond pumpkin spice (which we do still love, FYI!). These scents evoke the warmth and cosiness of the season, with a few unexpected twists that are sure to delight your customers.
Creamy Cinnamon
The second there's a slight chill in the air, we're reaching for anything spiced, aren't we? Cinnamon is the OG of autumnal scents. It's warm, comforting and instantly makes you feel like you're wrapped in a fluffy blanket—basically a hug in candle form. With that in mind, it perfectly captures those cosy nights in, sipping on a spiced Chai latte and watching the leaves change colour. Trust us, your customers will be stocking up on these for the long winter ahead.
Clary Sage
Turns out Brits absolutely love the scent of sage in autumn. According to Conservatory Land, it's actually the UK's most-searched-for autumnal scent. And it's not hard to see why: sage has a warm, earthy aroma with a subtle sweetness that perfectly captures the essence of the season. But it's not just about the smell. Sage is also known for its calming and grounding properties, making it the perfect scent to help your customers unwind after a busy day. It invites them to relax and enjoy the simple pleasures of the season.
There's something undeniably magical about the combination of orange and spice in the autumn air. The sweet, juicy notes of orange evoke memories of harvest festivals and Halloween, while the warm, comforting spices like cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg bring to mind crackling fires and cosy evenings indoors.
Bonus tip: Why not incorporate dried orange slices into your candle packaging? They not only add a visually appealing touch, but they also reinforce the scent and theme of the candle. You could even suggest customers use the slices as natural decorations for their home after enjoying their candle. A win-win!
Creamy Pumpkin
We know, we know, pumpkins are a bit of a cliché when it comes to autumn scents. But let's be real, they're iconic for a reason. They're the ultimate symbol of autumn; synonymous with chilly autumn days, comfy sweaters and the anticipation of Halloween festivities.
Want to take your seasonal candle craft up a notch? Pour your wax and fragrance into a pumpkin-shaped mould to enhance their cosy charm. These sculptural candles make gorgeous autumnal home décor, doubling as cute additions to your Halloween candles.
Smoky Embers
Nothing quite says "autumn" like the smell of a bonfire on a bleak November night, does it? Whether it's a Guy Fawkes celebration or just a casual weekend gathering, that smoky, woodsy scent instantly transports us back to childhood. And the Smoky Embers fragrance is basically Bonfire Night in a bottle (or candle, or wax melt—you get the idea). It’s got that unmistakable smoky aroma, with hints of burning wood and maybe even a touch of something sweet, like toasted marshmallows.
Bonus tip: Try using a wooden wick in your smoky woods candles for an extra touch of bonfire realism. The gentle crackling sound will add another layer of sensory delight to enhance the experience.
Apple & Ginger Cake
Alright, we've covered the smoky, the spicy, and the earthy. Now let's talk about the sweeter side of autumn. Because let's face it, who doesn't love the smell of something freshly baked when it’s dreary outside? This Apple & Ginger Cake fragrance is basically like having a slice of warm apple crumble (or pie, or cobbler, we're not picky) in candle form.
It's got that sweet, juicy apple aroma with a hint of spicy ginger—the perfect combo to evoke those cosy autumnal feels. Guaranteed to bring a sense of warmth to your customers’ homes, we encourage you to light it up yourself and let deliciousness fill the room.
Fresh Hay, Honey & Amber
Who needs a weekend getaway when you can have a staycation with this fragrance? Fresh Hay, Honey & Amber encapsulates a crisp autumnal walk through the countryside. It's got that warm, comforting scent of hay bales, the sweetness of honey, and a touch of earthy amber that'll make you want to curl up with a cuppa and a good book.
This fragrance is a reminder of simpler times, of evenings spent indoors by a roaring fire while the wind howls outside. It's perfect for those who want to bring a touch of rustic charm into their homes, and sure to be a hit with anyone who loves the smell of the great outdoors.
Autumn Days
Move over pumpkin spice—this really is autumn in a bottle. Autumn Days captures the essence of those brisk mornings, golden leaves and the anticipation of cosy nights in.
It's a multifaceted blend of fresh orange and lemon that'll wake you up better than a cup of coffee, with a warm heart of cinnamon and a rich base note of clove that'll have you reaching for your favourite jumper. It's versatile enough to burn throughout the season, from the first hints of autumn to the depths of winter. Even better, it might just be your next bestseller.