Whenever I’m on vacation, I spend at least 5% of my time perusing candles in cute shops of the towns I’m visiting. On one such trip, I came across Paddywax Library Candles and fell in love.

Now, I don’t remember the shop. I don’t remember where I was. I only vaguely recollect my husband being there. But I do remember the 30 vivid minutes of smelling the whole collection and trying to decide which candles I would buy.

After a fretful few moments, I decided on Charles Dickens and Ralph Waldo Emerson.

I’m a Disney person, i.e., a grown adult who happily goes to Disneyland sans children. Do I sing Disney songs to myself all the time? Yes. But I’ve evolved from “Part of Your World” to “Poor Unfortunate Souls,” so I’m showing signs of growth.

Previously, my Disney love didn’t go past visiting the parks and rewatching the opening on Beauty and the Beast on a loop. I never thought “Oh, if only my apartment could smell like ‘It’s a Small World’ water, churros, and waiting in line.” But when I saw that Spireside made Disney Parks themed candles, it was as if my heart had made a wish and that secret dream came true. In less lyrical words - I wanted to buy all of their candles.

In the past year and a half, I’ve sampled quite a bit of their inventory and want to share my very favorites with you (and a couple to possibly avoid).

Candles are a huge part of my self care. Honestly, when I start feeling depressed or over-anxious, I light a candle and feel a little better. I’m not saying to head to Yankee Candle instead of your therapist, but candles can be surprisingly soothing when things get hard.

So, every week I’ll talk about a candle I love and I’ll try to give you some deep cuts from the fragrant wax world. Like, I’ll go way beyond Bed, Bath & Beyond. And all my recommendations will cost $40 or less (usually a lot less), unless my life is truly changed by a costlier candle.

Okay, let’s get to the good stuff! My candle of the week is: