Giving Our Guys More Candles

So the secret seems to be out... Guys going ga ga for candles did give me a bit of a shock but when I saw what they were actually craving I could whole heatedly understand. These candles went against what has been traditionally in in the fragrance world... namely fresh citruses or foodie notes of chocolate and sticky sweetness. Instead, as my past Myth Vanquished : Men Hate Candles featured, many like things deeper and smokier. Think stuffy English mens clubs, film noir and lots of polo playing somehow infused into one little candle. Next time you need a quick gift for your guy try:

Le Couvent Lavender and Acacia Candle (pictured above) This is a case of Overstock.com really pulling through as these French candles from Provence are extremely hard to find in the US but oh-so-worth it. Around $22. each the lavender gives way to the almost creamy acacia and other woods, musk and a hint of vanilla. Not the least bit floral this is perfect for burning on those chilly spring and summer nights and makes a fireplace completely obsolete.
Leave it up to Ralph Lauren to come up with a thoroughly masculine candle and while the name is somewhat disturbing, the Thoroughbred Scented Candle, $45, has the perfect combination of scents. The major one being pipe tobacco which found its way into most of the candles men went out of their way to snap up. Vanilla levels things out and the spice and honey adds a bit of warmth. The box makes it perfectly to give as is.
Archipelago Bergamot Tobacco Soy Candle, $24., is not surprisingly one of their top selling scents, probably due to its major cross over appeal. Using natural soy wax it contains sweet pipe tobacco notes along with bright Bergamot (aka bee balm) for a contradiction that somehow really works.

Unfortunately many shy away from candles because of the large dent it can make in ones wallet but I've found some of the above candles, plus others, deeply discounted. For more on this check out, Secret Online Sample Sales + Invitations & Reviews for the low down on scoring some yourself. He'll never know and you'll both be happy.

Also Read: 
--Myth Vanquished : Men Hate Candles
- Give Twice: Gift Picks That Give Back To Good Causes
- What To Do When Someone Returns An Unwanted Gift
- Are You Giving Candles with Lead In Them?

Image: Overstock.com | ralphlauren.com | archipelago-usa.com