While there are some vague theories origin of candles (Egyptians vs. Romans), and there is much information on the history of candles in terms of the development of candle making through the ages depending on what materials and industries could support it, it’s difficult to determine when society became attached to candles as symbols of healing, peace and celebration, and why our love affair with candles continues.

Even though it’s bad for my eyes, my favorite use of candles is to read by them–it seems mysterious and romantic.  I’ve also loved to use them to fill a non-working fireplace on occasion–it offers dimension and just as much drama as a traditional fire can.

Scents are just as much a part of our decor as other elements, because like architectural and furniture style,  and color, scents are another way to define who we are through the atmosphere in our homes.  I feel the same way about candles that I do about fragrances that I choose for my lotions and colognes.  I don’t want the house to smell like a vanilla or cookie candle.  I’ll bake cookies for that.  I like clean fragrances around me, such as verbena, linen, and ocean. Nothing too fruity, floral or heavy.  Lily of the valley is divine, but gardenia and rose are just too heavy in candles and perfumes–I’d rather just have a vase of roses.

Using candles the really old fashioned way–for light–hasn’t lost it’s appeal.  Some chandeliers still use real candles, and holiday luminaries are still popular, although people are tending more toward the battery operated luminaries which won’t get blown out by the wind or snuffed out by the rain.

Whether it’s to light the way, create atmosphere, celebrate on a birthday cake, remember a loved one, or fill a room with your favorite scent, here’s hoping we’ll all light a candle or two this holiday.

Last 5 posts by KellyThacher

• O Tannenbaum . . . - December 23rd, 2009
• All For Show - December 21st, 2009
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Author: Kelly Thacher

Kelly has been a writer since she was in grade school where she received early recognition for her Young Author's project. Magazines like Home Entertainment, Luxury Consumer Electronics, Vertical Living, Luxury Home and the Robb Report were happy to have Kelly's editing talents on various projects. A series of career twists and turns has offered her invaluable experience in journalism, magazine and book publishing, and fiction writing.

Kelly Thacher has written 30 articles for us.