Why doesn't my Christmas Tree Make my Home Smell Like....A Christmas Tree?

Decoding Your Christmas Tree's Fragrance: A Nod to North Carolina's Fraser Fir

The Christmas season brings merriment and the nostalgic scent of evergreen, yet your Christmas tree's fragrance may not meet expectations. Explore the reasons behind this with a focus on North Carolina's beloved Fraser fir.

1. Tree Species: NC's Fraser Fir

The tree type significantly influences the scent. North Carolina, renowned for Christmas tree farms, boasts the Fraser fir, offering a strong, delightful fragrance infused with essential oils. Choose wisely for an authentic, aromatic experience.

2. Tree Health: Vital for Rich Fragrance

A healthy tree is key to a lasting fragrance. Opt for vibrant, green needles, ensuring a fresh tree enriched with essential oils for a more aromatic holiday.

3. Age and Harvesting: Impact on Scent

The age of your Christmas tree at harvesting affects its intensity. Older trees provide a robust fragrance, while timing and essential oils enhance the scent.

5. Environmental Factors: Nurturing Aroma

Combat dry indoor air, providing regular watering and keeping the tree away from heat. Complement the natural scent with a Fraser Fir soy candle, hand-poured with clean scents and essential oils. Find yours here.

Tips for Tree Health:

• Watering: Ensure your tree stays hydrated by maintaining a consistent water level in the tree stand. A well-hydrated tree is more likely to retain its fragrance.

• Location Matters: Keep your tree away from heat sources like radiators and fireplaces. This helps prevent excessive moisture loss, preserving the tree's natural aroma.

• Fresh Cut: When setting up your tree, make a fresh cut at the base to facilitate water absorption. This simple step can prolong the tree's freshness and fragrance.

Special Offer: Enjoy 15% off your candle purchase until December 31, 2023, with code: FRASERFIR. Elevate your holiday with a Fraser Fir 100% soy candle, enriched with essential oils for an inviting and aromatic haven.

Hand poured in Wilmington, NC

Shop small.

Explore North Carolina's Fraser fir for an authentic holiday scent. Choose a fresh, healthy tree, complement it with a Fraser Fir soy candle enriched with essential oils, and enjoy an inviting, aromatic haven this holiday season. Follow these tips to keep your tree fresh and fragrant throughout the Christmas season.

Candle History

The use of candles in Christian churches has a long and rich history that dates back to the early centuries of the Christian era. Candles have played various roles in worship and symbolism within different Christian traditions. Here's an overview of the history of candles in Christian churches:

• Early Christian Period: In the early Christian Church, candles were used primarily for practical purposes. Christian congregations often met in the catacombs or underground chambers for worship, especially during times of persecution. Candles provided much-needed light in these dark spaces and were used during the celebration of the Eucharist and other liturgical rites.
  

• Symbolism of Light: As Christianity spread and developed its liturgical traditions, candles took on deeper symbolic significance. They became symbols of Christ, who is often referred to as the "Light of the World" in the New Testament (John 8:12). Candles represented the presence of Christ in the midst of the worshipping community.
  

• Advent of the Altar Candle: By the Middle Ages, the use of candles had become more established in Christian worship. Altar candles were introduced and became an integral part of the Mass. The exact number and arrangement of candles on the altar varied over time and in different regions.
  

• Liturgical Colors: The colors of candles used in Christian worship began to correspond to the liturgical seasons. For example, white candles symbolized purity and were used during festive seasons like Christmas and Easter. The use of other colors, such as purple for Advent and Lent or red for feasts of martyrs, developed to symbolize various aspects of the Christian faith.
  

• Sanctuary Lamp: The sanctuary lamp, often a hanging lamp or candle, was introduced to signify the presence of the Blessed Sacrament in the tabernacle. It remains lit to indicate the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist.
  

• Candlemas: The Feast of the Presentation of Jesus at the Temple, also known as Candlemas, celebrates the presentation of the infant Jesus in the Temple in Jerusalem. This feast, observed on February 2nd, is associated with the blessing of candles, and it is a significant event in the liturgical calendar.
  

• Devotional Candles: In addition to their use in formal liturgical settings, candles are often used for personal devotion and prayer in Christian churches. Devotional candles are commonly found in chapels and shrines, where individuals can light candles as a symbol of their prayers and intentions.
  

• Contemporary Use: Today, the use of candles in Christian churches continues to evolve. Candles remain an important symbol of Christ's presence and the light of faith. In some churches, traditional practices are upheld, while others may incorporate modern lighting methods or electric candles for practical reasons. Many Christians also embrace candles in the intimate context of their homes. In addition to upholding traditional practices in some churches, small group gatherings in homes have become a cherished extension of faith and community. Here, candles take on a dual role: they create a warm and cozy ambiance, and they serve as a tangible representation of the spiritual light that unites believers in their shared Christian faith. Whether illuminating Bible study sessions, moments of prayer, or times of fellowship, candles enhance the atmosphere and reinforce the sense of togetherness in these intimate home gatherings.
  

In summary, the use of candles in Christian churches has evolved over the centuries from purely practical illumination to a rich tapestry of symbolism and ritual. Candles continue to hold spiritual significance and play a central role in the worship and devotional practices of many Christian traditions.

Enjoy our gift of 10% off your first month when joining our Candle of the Month Club! Use code: SMALLGROUP2023 when placing your order through 2023!

How do you use candles? What is your most favorite scent? Comment below! We might re-create your favorite scent!

Pet Safety with Essential Oils

Pet Safety with Essential Oils

Recently, We have been asked about Essential Oils and our Pets. So, we decided to do a little research and share it with our Agapé Community.

Essential oils have become a popular remedy for various ailments and health issues. However, their use can also have an impact on our furry friends. House pets, such as cats and dogs, can have a different reaction to essential oils than humans do. Therefore, it's crucial to be aware of their effects before using them around our pets.

Essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts and can be toxic to pets if ingested or inhaled in large quantities. The most commonly affected pets are cats, as they lack the necessary enzymes to break down the compounds in essential oils. Some essential oils, such as tea tree oil, citrus oil, and peppermint oil, can cause severe reactions in cats and dogs. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, and tremors.

Moreover, essential oils can also have an impact on a pet's behavior. Some oils, such as lavender, chamomile, and bergamot, can have a calming effect on pets and reduce anxiety. However, other oils, such as peppermint and eucalyptus, can be stimulating and increase a pet's energy levels, making them hyperactive.

It's essential to dilute essential oils before using them around pets, and to avoid applying them directly to their skin or fur. Additionally, diffusing oils can be harmful to pets if they inhale too much. Therefore, it's important to use a diffuser in a well-ventilated area, away from pets.

If you suspect your pet has ingested or inhaled essential oils, it's essential to seek veterinary care immediately. Your vet will be able to provide the necessary treatment and ensure your pet's well-being.

In conclusion, essential oils can have both positive and negative effects on house pets. It's important to be aware of the potential risks and to take precautions before using them around pets. If in doubt, it's always best to consult with a veterinarian before using essential oils on or around your pets.