Nikki Makes Scents (sometimes)

Lip Balm Addiction?

2012-01-21T18:29:00.000-05:00

This is obviously a issue that many people share that there are nine FaceBook groups dedicated to this topic (who knew!). In addition, I saw a Dr. Oz segment about lip balm addiction and thought I would share my thoughts.
Before I started making my own lip balm I had many of the "symptoms of addiction" he listed:

One applies lip balm more than three times per day. >> check
You have more than one lip balm. >> check
You keep lip balm in multiple places. >> check
After a long, passionate kiss, the first thing your mind thinks about is re-applying your lip balm. >> Um nope! That's the last thing I'm thinking about after a kiss (but that's another story)!

Here is the scary part. Dr. Oz states if you keep applying the wrong lip balm the layers of your lips will start to look and feel like a croissant (flaky, dry & hollow).

Luckily I already knew this as I researched my recipe for lip balm years ago.
Those lip balms with camphor, menthol and alcohol that may initially feel good on your lips actually draw the moisture out. Thus you keep reapplying. Hence, the addiction.

Lip balms with natural ingredients such as Shea butter, coconut oil or Castor oil are natural moisturizers and sun screen and won't coat or draw out the layers of ones lips.

I still love my lip balm and I always reapply just as one would lipstick after food or drink. I even found some cool lip balm holders to attach to my key chain, belt buckle or bag for easy access.

So am I addicted? Yes. But I can think of far worse things to be addicted to and my addiction promotes shiny-healthy-pucker up lips!

Some other tips to keep your lips kissable are to stay hydrated, use a milder soap on your face and stop using that commercial lip stuff!

What is your addiction?

Temporarily Closed

2011-09-10T20:16:00.000-04:00

This has been the sign in almost all aspects of my life for the past 6 weeks anyway.

We are in the midst of closing on a house that we were to move in in August. It's been a nightmare since then. I am seriously thinking of starting a blog on venting about house buying and what NOT to do. We moved out of our old home the end of July and we're currently living with family out of suitcases as all of our belongings are in storage.

Oh, then there was the earthquake. I thought I was just dizzy from all the chaos in my life but he felt it too.

Then there was the hurricane and the mandatory evacuation of our temporary home. Then no electricity, flooding and road blocks that make it impossible to get to anyplace on time.

But then I put it all in perspective and I'm thankful that I am able to purchase a house when so many are losing theirs. Even though I joke and say I'm homeless I'm greatful for for the roof over my head and that my friends and family are safe and sound. Watching all the coverage of that 10 year old tragedy knocked some sense into me that I don't have it so bad.

We hope to be opened back up in 6 weeks (toward the end of October). Hope you enjoyed your summer!

Soapy Sensation! Giveaway

2011-06-05T18:33:00.000-04:00

Over the past few weeks we have been adding a whole new line of SLS-free and Paraben-free Mega soap bars! Many of these are vegan-friendly, made with natural and organic ingredients, smell amazing and clean amazingly well too!

So far we have 11 new soaps but hope to add over a dozen more by the end of the year.
Citrus Sunrise, Cranberry Vanilla Peach, Cucumber Melon, Grapefruit Aloe Surprise, May Chang, Melon Mango Sugar, Pacific Reef, Peppermint Tea Tree, Star Anise, Vanilla Mocha. Several of these are currently at introductory prices for a limited time so grab them while you can! Which is your favorite and which would you like to try?

Feeling Lucky? We are giving away two soap bars of your choice this month!

Here is how you can win

Just for following & commenting about our soaps you are automatically entered in our giveaway!

Be our fan on Facebook and leave a comment about the topic or website.
Follow us on Twitter and tweet about us using nikkicandles or Nikki Makes Scents (sorry private tweets can't be seen and therefore cannot be counted)
Follow our Blog and leave comment about any of our post for the month (sorry private follows cannot be verified therefore cannot be counted) .
If you made a purchase, leave comments on our "what people are saying" page

It's that simple for a chance to win two gourmet luxury soaps from us!! (Please provide a way for us to contact you.)

Do all four this month and that will count as 4 entries to increase your chances!!

Comments such as "comment" or "I'm following you" are not considered comments! Please comment on our post, our products or whatever subject we are chatting or tweeting about this month.

(Previous winners within the year are not eligible to win again although we appreciate your support so let's hear from you too!)

Giveaway Ends June 26th 2011 (11:59pm)

Giving

2011-06-03T13:23:00.000-04:00

I'll miss the Oprah talk show as well as the Oprah the host. Her warm real personality made you feel like you knew her. Through the years I have loved and admired her, been sick of her, respected her and questioned her. However, I think one of my greatest lessons from her and her show was the enormous power of giving. Although I have had many struggles throughout my life I recognize there are many with far worse problems and have been able to give back or encouraged others to give back like I have many times on this blog. Nikki Makes Scents and out customers have been able to give through donating money, volunteering time and knowledge or donating products from Natural disasters around the world to disease and war.
Recently we found a program that allowed us to donate 2 dozen soap bars to domestic violence and homeless shelters in Connecticut and realized that a donation of some bath & beauty products could brighten their esteem with just showering and smelling like one of our fantastic fragrances. My mom has always been a great giver of her time to organizations and friends and so the seed was already planted to give but I think Oprah's show showed me visually why it was so important for not only the recipient but the giver as well.

"What I know for sure is that what you give comes back to you."

---Oprah Winfrey

Diva Giveaway Winner...

2011-06-01T11:42:00.008-04:00

Congrats to Karen A. for commenting and following our blog and therefore being our Diva Needs Set Giveaway winner for May!!

Picture This!

2011-05-19T19:30:00.001-04:00

Let's face it, many of us consider ourselves to be proficient picture takers these days. Thanks to technology we can automatically erase a pic and take a better one. Even phone cameras can detect when you need a flash and have auto focus. Thanks to photo editing software we can erase blemishes (or an ex), red eye, center the pic and even make us 20lbs lighter!

But there is nothing like the skilled craft-woman and talent of a true photographer. Instead of taking a picture to tweak and fix they capture the right lighting, form and setting to result in a perfect picture.

Laura Herr Photography is a photo artist located on Long Island New York and captures people's greatest and happiest moments from weddings, births and every day happy moments. I was lucky enough to be able to be affiliated with her and she took a few pictures of my favorite summer candles. Making these candles was fun but now that she took pictures of them they look stunning (if I do say so myself)! You must check out her website and blog with happy pics of people I want to know and places I want to be. That's the feeling her pictures evoke.

For a limited time if you visit her blog and comment on our feature "Making Scents of it All" one lucky person will be randomly selected to use a $20 credit on our Etsy shop! Offer ends May 21st so hurry!

May is Lupus Awareness Month

2011-05-06T13:08:00.004-04:00

About 10 years ago I participated in a Walk for Lupus when my mother was newly diagnosed. I was already familiar with the disease as her brother died from complications related to Lupus a few years earlier. It just so happened that the Walk was in October and when attempting to raising money many people were unfamiliar with Lupus and much more familiar with Breast Cancer Awareness especially in October. Our walk is now in May and our voice is stronger than ever providing awareness to the growing disease. Here are just a few facts about Lupus straight from the Lupus Foundation Of America:

Lupus is a chronic, autoimmune disease that can damage any part of the body (skin, joints, and/or organs inside the body). Chronic means that the signs and symptoms tend to last longer than six weeks and often for many years. In lupus, something goes wrong with your immune system, which is the part of the body that fights off viruses, bacteria, and germs ("foreign invaders," like the flu). Normally our immune system produces proteins called antibodies that protect the body from these invaders. Autoimmune means your immune system cannot tell the difference between these foreign invaders and your body’s healthy tissues ("auto" means "self") and creates autoantibodies that attack and destroy healthy tissue. These autoantibodies cause inflammation, pain, and damage in various parts of the body.

Lupus is also a disease of flares (the symptoms worsen and you feel ill) and remissions (the symptoms improve and you feel better). Lupus can range from mild to life-threatening and should always be treated by a doctor. With good medical care, most people with lupus can lead a full life.
Lupus is not contagious, not even through sexual contact. You cannot "catch" lupus from someone or "give" lupus to someone.
Lupus is not like or related to cancer. Cancer is a condition of malignant, abnormal tissues that grow rapidly and spread into surrounding tissues. Lupus is an autoimmune disease, as described above.
Lupus is not like or related to HIV (Human Immune Deficiency Virus) or AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome). In HIV or AIDS the immune system is underactive; in lupus, the immune system is overactive.
Our research estimates that at least 1.5 million Americans have lupus. The actual number may be higher; however, there have been no large-scale studies to show the actual number of people in the U.S. living with lupus.
It is believed that 5 million people throughout the world have a form of lupus.
Lupus strikes mostly women of childbearing age (15-44). However, men, children, and teenagers develop lupus, too.
Women of color are 2-3 times more likely to develop lupus.
People of all races and ethnic groups can develop lupus.
More than 16,000 new cases of lupus are reported annually across the country.

As with Breast Cancer I have made a candle collection for Lupus to assist in awareness, education and research. 50% of every candle and bracelet sold will be donated to the Lupus Foundation of America. I will be posting bi-annual updates of what was donated thus far. You can find the Lupus Awareness Candle w/bracelet exclusively on Etsy and Artfire.

These candles are also available in bulk for fundraising events.

DIVA Giveaway

2011-05-01T15:57:00.005-04:00

Are you a Diva or know somebody who is? Then you need to enter this Giveaway!!

Enter to win a
Diva Needs Set

(a $17.25 value)

For the independent woman that worked long hours at the office/home and is ready for a night out on the town. The necessities to start the evening off right.

Set includes:

DIVA Butter Bar - We call it the Butter Bar because it is made up of all natural ingredients including moisturizing shea butter. (4oz)
DIVA Shimmer Soy Lotion - a wonderful moisturizer with a non-toxic sparkle. (2oz)
DIVA Dry Perfume Spray - Top it all off with a non-alcohol spray that goes on dry. Use as a perfume, body spray or a sheen for hair in our DIVA fragrance. (1oz)

Here is how you can win

Just for commenting you are automatically entered in our giveaway!

Be our fan on Facebook and leave a comment about the topic or website.
Follow us on Twitter and tweet about us using nikkicandles or Nikki Makes Scents (sorry private tweets can't be seen and therefore cannot be counted)
Follow our Blog and leave comment about any of our post for the month (sorry private follows cannot be verified therefore cannot be counted) .
If you made a purchase, leave comments on our "what people are saying" page

It's that simple for a chance to win this Diva set from us!! (Please provide a way for us to contact you.)

Do all four this month and that will count as 4 entries to increase your chances!!

Comments such as "comment" or "I'm following you" are not considered comments! Please comment on our post, our products or whatever subject we are chatting or tweeting about this month.

(Previous winners within the year are not eligible to win again although we appreciate your support so let's hear from you too!)

Giveaway Ends May 31st 2011 (11:59pm)

It's Spring!

2011-04-01T00:32:00.000-04:00

We've had three major snow storms here in the north east and I can't tell you how happy I am that Spring is finally here. Even though my allergies will flair up to the point that people think I've been crying for days I enjoy seeing all the flowers about to come in bloom.

Scent of the Month - Bunny Burps

This April we were in a fun-loving mood and choose Bunny Burps as our Scent of the Month. Check out our special on this scent for the month of April! This is a fantastic fresh scent! If your looking for something sweet for the holiday/spring season what about Jordan Almonds or Jelly Beans!

These egg-shaped votive holders in delightful spring colors are the perfect size for our round votive candles. Happy spring everyone!

Estians for Disaster Relief

2011-03-19T00:00:00.021-04:00

In the wake of this most recent disaster several independent artisans from Etsy put together a team called Etsians for Disaster Relief. We post national and international disasters, organizations to donate, what is needed and what we can do to help. Many shops have donated a percentage of sales to organizations in an effort to help raise money.

Like I've mentioned before, giving is the absolute best feeling in the world. I highly recommend volunteering your knowledge or time with an organization that is always happy to have the help. It's free and priceless to those who need it. If that's not possible then money is always the next best option.

Besides donating to organizations, why not also do your shopping at some shops that are also donating a portion of their proceeds. Here are a few of my favorites:

Kosmika

http://www.etsy.com/shop/Kosmika?ref=seller_info

These lovely Pink Dots Earrings in Pastel Pink w/ handmade Hoops and Porcelain Clay Charms are adorable. 60% of the sale will go to any charity of the buyers choice on this link www.google.com/crisisresponse/japanquake2011.html.

Tickled Paisley

http://www.etsy.com/shop/TickledPaisley

This Modern Clutch - Kate Spain Central Park makes me wants to set a date with my mom for Sunday Brunch in the heart of New York City! 50% of sales will go to the AmeriCares Foundation Inc.

Melissa Bee Art

http://www.etsy.com/shop/MelissaBeeArtDenver

For all of us animal lovers let's not forget all the misplaced pets. 50% of sales from this shop will go to the Japan Animal Relief Fund.

AmiAmigos

http://www.etsy.com/shop/amiamigos

This Silly Doggy Crocheted Hat just makes you want to smile like this adorable model. 50% of sales for March goes to Direct Relief International.

Amy Fine Design

http://www.etsy.com/shop/amyfine

I love these Red Leather Bangles (I bought a set for myself)! For every set sold $5.00 will be donated to the Red Cross.

By My Touch

http://www.etsy.com/shop/bymytouch?

It was hard just picking one bag but I just love this Charcoal Grey + Pink Coral Purse. This shop uses eco-friendly materials and net profits from all sales will be donated to to the Red Cross for the month of March.

Happy St. Patricks Day!!

2011-03-17T00:06:00.018-04:00

I'm not Irish and never thought to find out what St. Patrick's Day was about. To my surprise, according to History.com it was a religious event. I guess the part that says "Saint" should have clued me in.
These days everyone around the globe celebrate St. Patrick's Day regardless of their culture in some kind of way. I love finding out the origin of different beliefs and celebrations. Even though the U.S. is a melting pot it's important to preserve rich cultures and traditions we can all benefit from.
Also, like most holidays or celebatory days we equate things that have very little to do with the day..i.e margaritas for Cinco de Mayo, bunnies for easter etc.
So I will continue the tradition with a collection of Funky Green Things:

'Funky Green things' by nikkicandles

All this green makes me want to say "top of the morning to you"! Enjoy

Teardrop Vibrant Peridot Stu... agustinajewelr... $48.00	Taxidermy Unicorn No 3 hitree $80.00	Plastiche Brooch UNUNODESIGN $15.00	8x10 owls more colors availa... zeppiprints $17.00
St. Patricks Day -100 Origam... Deliverance05 $12.00	Pool Table Messenger Bag - P... luxfordst $79.00	Green Sleeves 2 long dress (... idea2lifestyle $59.00	Little Man Button Hat in Gre... OopsIKnitItAga... $18.00
Springtime LostArtsStudio $30.00	Dipping dish - leaves in cha... hopejohnson $24.00	Saint Patrick's Day Bow ... ToScarboroughF... $15.00	Tiny theaircastle $20.00
Light Green LEGO brick ring ... ChocolateMintC... $4.50	Green Tea, Tassimo Recycled ... MoLStationery $3.95	Margarita Fudge. No Butter, ... PernillasSS $9.50	Luck of the Irish. The Chart... jrpummel $195.00

Treasury tool is sponsored by Lazzia.com A/B image testing.

9.0

2011-03-12T18:44:00.001-05:00

I've been an adult for some time now and it seems as if a major disaster happens somewhere around the world more and more often and each more and more horrific. Can you imagine the horror one felt in the hurricanes of Katrina, the frightening feeling of buildings shaking in Haiti, the feeling of loss in the Tsunamis in Thailand? There are countless more disasters before and after the ones I mentioned but then there is Japan...

Not just a historic earthquake but then a Tsunami to follow, and then the threat of radiation is a definite possibility. I am not a religious person but if it will help I will pray to a greater power because my heart goes out to them.
Even though Japan is not a third world country and thousands of miles away they need help! Reputable organizations designed to assist those in disaster relief constantly need donations to be able to keep up with this demand of basic needs like water, food and shelter.
Two of my favorite are the Red Cross and Doctors without Borders.

Your not helping a different country, race, government or people that may not speak the same language.....your helping humanity.

Candle Holders aren't just Candle Holders anymore...but works of ART.

2011-02-10T00:10:00.001-05:00

Not to toot my own horn but I think we make esthetically pleasing candles. Some people buy them for the décor, some for the scent and some for both. Candles are such an inexpensive way to decorate and scent your home to make it warm and inviting. Although we sell some candle holders on our website, I have come upon some beautiful hand-crafted candle holders by wonderful artisans that compliment the candle and almost any décor:

La Bella Candela
http://www.etsy.com/shop/LaBellaCandela

Last winter LabellaCandela was voted on Etsy as "Favorite Holiday Gift Item for Her" and it is easy to see why. These candle holders are gorgeous!! These holders have been on my radar for over a year now. I was going to blog about these for mother’s day but I just couldn’t wait.

Lizzie Joe Designs

http://www.etsy.com/shop/LizzieJoeDesigns

These cork votive holders are ingenious, all natural and recyclable! I love the purple ribbon accent but of course you can get another color ribbon to go with your decor as well.

Beso Designs

http://www.etsy.com/shop/BesoDesigns

These votive wraps by Beso Designs are beautiful. Okay, these aren't actually candle holders but candle wraps one places around a clear glass votive holder. Nonetheless, I had to include them because they are inexpensive and perfect for a personalized gift or that special occasion. I'm particularly fond of the wrap that says "Nicole" in also my favorite colors :-)

They are lovely, simple and elegant!

Craft Land

http://www.artfire.com/users/CraftLand

I know I said "I love this" several times during this blog post but really no other words can describe better how much I love each and every one of these holders! The craftsmanship of this wood holder is spectacular. He makes several wood candle holder designs and if you browse his shop I'm sure one will catch your eye as well.

Pheromones

2011-02-06T00:06:00.054-05:00

Have you ever followed a man or women down the bread aisle of the supermarket because their scent was so intoxicating? Maybe you just wanted to know what perfume or cologne their wearing (or maybe more). Maybe the pleasant scent reminds you of an old love. The song "Cross My Mind" by Jill Scott says it perfectly:

"I was just thinking about you
Wondering if you wear the same cologne
Smelled good -- On you

Had the next boyfriend of mine try the same kind
But it stunk on him though."

The same scent doesn't smell the same on everyone. Have you ever held on tight to a pillow and breathed in the scent of your spouse after they left? Is it Pheromones or the mixture of their daily grooming habits? I know I get weak in the knees after he puts on my Bajan Blue Water Whipped Body Butter after the shower, but I beg for mercy for him to put back on his shoes after work. :-)

Pheromones have been proven as a sexual attraction in animals but the debate in humans continues. Personally I don't think the natural odor of a man or women can stimulate me positivity physically, but who knows what it does chemically. I think if they worked that well people like me wouldn't be in business. On the other hand, have you ever had the misfortune of getting a whiff of someone who drank so much and the alcohol is literally emanating from their pores? I'm wondering if the same holds true if one eats a generous fruit diet if one starts to smell quite fruity! What are your thoughts?

For those who want some pheromone assistance, we have a wide selection of perfume and cologne body oils from designer fragrances to the old favorites. Take a look for yourself or your sweetheart because sometimes the scent of a man or a woman can need some help.

I'm sweet on you!

2011-02-05T03:07:00.012-05:00

Flowers? No. Dinner? No. These kitchen artist make all of these look so good! Give or get some of these yummies for Valentines Day.

Chocolate Peanut Butter... sweetmelissasm... $10.95	I HEART YOU Valentines ... cukorcookies $18.00	Honey Wheat Chocolate D... Sweettoothswee... $10.50	Raspberry Truffle Gourm... SinnersSaintsS... $4.95
Strawberry Milkshake Or... Sweettoothswee... $12.50	Chocolate Mint Cake Tru... lollidreams $13.50	Valentine's Day LOV... SunshineBakes $10.00	Drunken Winterberry Jam bovinebubbles $7.00
Gourmet Chocolate Cover... estheraguirre $8.00	Rainbow Marshmallows by... haveitconfecti... $10.00	Fleur de Sel Caramels P... TheCaramelJar $23.50	Homemade Hong Kong Styl... FusionSweets $19.00
Solid milk chocolate he... VintageConfect... $10.00	Valentines Day Candy Po... sweettemptatio... $12.00	Chocolate dipped Marshm... LynnesSweetSho... $7.95	Pumpkin Apple Butter - ... RosaMariasKitc... $6.00

Im sweet on you!

Curated By: nikkicandles

ArtFire.com

Craft Tutorials

Bubble Gum Day

2011-02-04T00:07:00.043-05:00

Before the blog we use to celebrate all sought of crazy holidays on our calendar of events on the website. As we became busier we didn't make time for these fun dates. We want to begin to revive it as much as we can on our blog.

Today is Bubble Gum Day. Surprisingly Bazooka didn’t come up with this bubblicous day. Instead a mom who thought of a unique and fun way to get kids to fund-raise and give back. Check out her story here.

Since we are kids at heart, any purchases made today of our bubblegum scent in any form (candle, bath & body) we will match at 100% and donate the proceeds to St. Judes Hospital.

FUgly Edition #4 - Ummm Soap

2011-01-18T10:02:00.000-05:00

There really isn't anything wrong with this soap. In fact it's made with Shea Butter and has a super creamy lather which leaves your skin moisturized. The aroma is fantastic! The only problem is that I can't remember the scent I used.

I'm usually super organized and you have to be when dealing with almost 700 scents. I was working on this soap over the holiday and when it became busy I abandoned the new creations and started filling orders. Now that it has settled down I came back to my soap to cut and test. I thought I wrote the fragrance down or left the bottle next to it but after cleaning up I must have put it away.

I do know my intention were to make a great smelling men's soap and this has notes of sweet brown sugar and a slight woodsy undertone. My "official testers" love it! I love it for myself as well. I considered going through all the men fragrances I carry to find the right one but sometimes fragrances smell differently when mixed in the product.

Right now I'll just call this Shea Butter soap and offer it at a discount in my Etsy and ArtFire shops. If I ever figure out the fragrance you will see it on my website. Take advantage of my mishap and try this soap out because you are sure to love it as well!

New for the New Year!

2011-01-05T11:17:00.015-05:00

Hope your holiday season was full of giving and getting what you wanted! I've finally gotten a breather to let you in on some of the updates for 2011:

January Scent of the month - Black Forest Truffle

Doesn't that look delicious? What a way to start off if your resolution was to lose weight and eat healthy (well that was mine this year...and every year). But instead you can just indulge in smelling this decadent fragrance all day with no calories, fat or carbs!

Best Sellers + Nikki Favorites

A recent customer emailed me elated that they found our website with all the scents I had. (I love getting emails from fellow scent addicts). She wanted to know which were my best selling and my favorite scents. I do mark certain items "Best Seller" or "Nikki Favorite" but I didn't have a list one can go to to see them all. I know almost 700 scents is overwhelming so I'm not sure why I haven't thought of this sooner.

That's why I love my customers for giving me great ideas! Therefore now you can click the link "Best Sellers" to find our customers' most popular products and scents. You can find my favorites called "Nikki Favorites" in a couple of weeks. I'm trying to narrow it down but it's hard for a scent addict.

Monthly Give-a-ways

After several years of giving away our products each month we are revamping somewhat. We are still giving away items each month although several will be through other sites and blogs. This month check out Women-prenuers Galore to win a $10 gift certificate in our Etsy shop. Giveaway ends 1/18/11.

New Scents

We have 25 new incense scents (which I think now totals over 100 incense fragrances).
20 new Perfume/Cologne Body Oil fragrances
22 new candle, bath + body scents

Payments & Shipping

We are happy to announce that we are now accepting credit cards on our website once again. Now you don't have to veer away to another website to pay. We keep all personal info private and our website is secure.

We are also happy to offer FedEx as another shipping option. It will not be included in the real-time shipping calculator but if you prefer to use FexEx let us know and we will calculate shipping fees.

Funky Business Cards

2010-12-28T00:05:00.002-05:00

If your thinking of starting the year off right with a new look, look no further with these funky business cards by Biz Cart. Anyone would love these colorful cards for a business or just calling cards! Very unique designs that will pop out among all the rest!

She also makes amazing invites and custom banners. Check out her shop on Etsy (http://www.etsy.com/shop/bizcart?ref=seller_info) or see even more designs on Zazzle (zazzle.com/bizcart). To top it off the Biz Cart shop owner will give a free banner with a business card purchase if you mention you saw our feature! Just say you saw it on Nikki's Blog. How cool is that?!

It's the thought that counts!

2010-12-23T09:41:00.004-05:00

We all know the meaning of Christmas isn't about gifts but a religious holiday celebrating the birth of Jesus. I do admit I don't celebrate the religious part but the Spirit of Christmas takes over me. I play all kinds of holiday music on my iPod from Johnny Mathis to Rap Christmas songs (yes there are some.) My mom makes beautiful wreaths and I love driving around seeing the white lights adorning the homes in my neighborhood. Oh, and the food! My second holiday excuse to eat baked mac & cheese, cookies cookies and did I mention cookies?

Also my favorite is I absolutely love giving gifts and make an effort to think of the person and what they like, dislike, their style and beliefs. I hope people take the same care when shopping for me but most of them don't. I was a little taken a back a few years ago when a close friend bought me a bath salts and lotion one year. Really? But I wasn't as obvious as this little kid.

So in this nation of christmas marketing, what are the top 5 things you DON'T want for Christmas this year?
Here is mine (in no particular order):

Gym Membership - what are you trying to say?
Gift Cards - unless it's to the Cheesecake Factory, I forget about them for years (literally years).
Anything technical - I'm getting old and don't have the patience to learn how to use it.
Underwear - If you must I don't wear thongs.
Your re-gifted (used) gift - I don't mind the re-gifting if you think I would use it more than you but next time you give me a candle holder can you scrape off the melted wax.

Price Increase

2010-12-19T00:10:00.001-05:00

Unfortunately many of our suppliers will be increasing the cost of raw materials. This coupled with that we haven't increased our prices in over 7 years we must also increase our prices to remain afloat. Our prices will still be very reasonable and our quality will not be sacrificed. We just wanted to let you know that our increases will begin mid-January so stock up on your favorite candles within the next few weeks at the current prices. We still will not require any minimums, handling fees and our shipping fees on our website are the actual shipping rates straight from the shipping vendors. We don't pad our increases in shipping fees or anything else. Continue to find more new scents products on our website and new exclusive designs on the craft site of Etsy and ArtFire!

Monthly Giveaway Galore

2010-12-01T00:01:00.002-05:00

Congrats to the November winner Vikki for commenting on our website.

This month we are giving away a gift-wrapped set of 4-perfume body oils!

(a $25 value)

Here is how you can win

Just for commenting you are automatically entered in our monthly giveaway.

Be our fan on Facebook and leave a comment about the topic or website.
Follow us on Twitter and tweet about us using nikkicandles or Nikki Makes Scents (sorry private tweets can't be seen and therefore cannot be counted)
Follow our Blog and leave comment about any of our post for the month (sorry private follows cannot be verified therefore cannot be counted) .
If you made a purchase, leave comments on our "what people are saying" page

It's that simple to win these perfumes from us!! (Please provide a way for us to contact you.)

Do all four each month and that will count as 4 entries to increase your chances!!

Comments such as "comment" or "I'm following you" are not considered comments! Please comment on our post, our products or whatever subject we are chatting or tweeting about this month.

(Previous winners within the year are not eligible to win again although we appreciate your support so let's hear from you too!)

Cyber Monday Sale Feature #9

2010-11-29T00:02:00.003-05:00

It's Cyber Monday and our one-and-only sale!! After you finish putting us to work with all your orders on candles check out these shops and their deals:

All Wired Up Jewelry Designs

http://www.artfire.com/users/ppennee

If you don't see these pictures in the shop I probably bought them because they are my favorite! But don't worry, she has many many delightful pieces. I love sterling silver and I can't afford a diamond so a Cubic Zorcina is the next best thing! She describes her shop as handcrafted metalsmithed and gemstone jewelry for the modern woman. (Hey I think I'm modern lady!) Another perk is she uses only 100% recycled sterling, fine silver, Argentium or 14k gold-filled. Take advantage of her Cyber Monday deal today of 10% off the entire shop (except the gift certificate and upgraded shipping), as well as Free Worldwide Shipping.

The Woven Spoke

http://www.etsy.com/shop/TheWovenSpoke

Handcrafted baskets are woven for using in the home as decor or as useful vessels for the kitchen, bathroom, or any other rooms to hold a multitude of items. 10% off the entire shop through Tuesday (11/30) using coupon BFCMsale.

Tole Treasures

http://www.etsy.com/shop/ToleTreasures

Quality hand-painted home decor and holiday pieces. 10% entire store until midnight tonight. Use coupon code NOV2010 at checkout.

Distorted Earth

http://www.etsy.com/shop/DistortedEarth

Hand crafted wire-wrapped rings, necklaces, bracelets and earrings. Made with sterling silver, silver plated, copper, gemstones, and beads. 10% off the entire order when you use coupon codeblackfriday at check out until November 30th!

Cinnamon Tree

http://www.etsy.com/shop/sabbio

This is another absolute favorite shop I just fell in love with. A French artist who loves to paint femininity through it's strength, beauty and dreams. These are absolutely great gifts for all women. She has original prints and art on items such as jewelry, boxes and journals. I particularly adore the prints on the tea boxes, bookmarks and candle holders (you know I love candle holders!). Today midnight is the last day to get 20% off the entire store. Use coupon code SABBIOTHWE.

Cyber Monday Sale Feature #8

2010-11-28T00:09:00.006-05:00

Are you pooped yet?

Sew Legit

http://www.artfire.com/users/SewLegit

Handmade bags and accessories in beautiful patterns. 20% off everything in the shop until Dec 1st!

Unique Scrap Designs

http://www.etsy.com/shop/UniqueScrapDesigns

Custom digital invitations, announcements, cards and party printables. 40% off any purchase in their shop. Use coupon code USDBFCM1 at checkout. Sale lasts until Monday, 11/29. (Excludes professional printing.)

Cyber Monday Sales feature #7

2010-11-27T00:02:00.071-05:00

Black Friday is over but that was only the beginning! Many of these small business shops have sales and discounts through this weekend, to Cyber Monday to even the end of the year! I have to admit I emptied my holiday club and I'm taking the opportunity to purchase some of these items for myself. Umm just think of it as a holiday present to myself. Why don't you do the same.

Tie Dye by Sara

http://www.artfire.com/users/TieDyeBySara

Hand-dyed with love by Sara and her spouse. Over 400 pieces in stock normally and custom orders always welcome for no extra charge. For the rest of November, 10% off every item in the shop.
An additional 10% off towards shipping for the first 5 orders with purchases of $8-$60 (please contact merchant for coupon). Come on by and have yourself a tie dyed Christmas!

The Collected Collage

http://www.etsy.com/shop/theCollectedCollage

The Collected Collage specializes in eye-catching, unusual pieces of antique & vintage jewelry, apparel and accessories. Offering Free U.S. Shipping on all jewelry orders over $50.

Madden Photography

http://www.etsy.com/shop/Maddenphotography

Home Decor that is timeless, inspirational and nature inspired. 20 % Off the section "20 PERCENT OFF MONDAY" (This section only on 11/29).

Black Friday & Cyber Monday Sales Feature #6

2010-11-26T00:13:00.096-05:00

I'm so stuffed I couldn't get up at 4am and stand in the cold on line if I wanted to. Instead I will go online (see that great play on words? he he he) and browse through the many many sales going on here. If you didn't know it small businesses are the backbone of the U.S. economy and represent a great majority of new jobs each year. If anything, we small business owners ask consumers to buy a portion of their gifts from small businesses and also from hand crafted artisans this year to keep the economy on it's feet. Now here are the incredible sales I found today:

Mad Moravian

http://www.artfire.com/users/madmoravian

Wonders in wood, glass and wire. 20% off all items from Turkey Day through Cyber Monday.
Coupon code: CYBERBLACK

Forget Me Not Treasure

http://www.artfire.com/users/ForgetMeKnotTreasure

A variety of embroidered gifts from housewares, purses, bags, accessories, roses and bouquets. All of their products are custom made so no one piece is alike. Free Shipping on everything in the shop until December 13th.

Sarenzo Beads

http://www.sarenzobeads.com/

Sarenzo Beads ~ an online boutique of custom, beautiful and unique jewelry and natural hair accessories. Black Friday 12 midnight - 12 noon est - buy one get one 1/2 off. Use code bogo1/2
12 noon - 12 midnight est 15% off all purchases use code 15%
(Please note that everyone will get free shipping & we will still have $5 Fridays)
Small Business Saturday & Super Sunday - 15% off all purchases use code 15%
everyone will get free shipping
Cyber Monday - 20% off all items all day . Please note there will be a $10 hairtie section
everyone will get free shipping.

Boutique Karma

http://www.artfire.com/users/BoutiqueKarma

A wide variety of comfort items such as beautiful eye pillows, coasters, coffee sleeves, mug huggers, bobo packs and crayon roll ups. All handmade with beautifully chosen cotton fabrics. 20% off the entire shop through midnight Monday (11/29).

Belle Blake Designs
http://www.etsy.com/shop/BelleBlakeDesigns

Stunning unique gifts of earrings, cigarette and business card cases. Selected items on sale today!

Ilze Lucero Props & Bridal

http://www.etsy.com/shop/ilzesmemories

Isn't this precious?! This shop makes beautiful baby hats, bridal decor, appliques, bridal hair accessories and so much more to make your memories of that day even more special. 20% off the entire shop! Use coupon code MYBF2010.

Olives and Pearls
http://www.etsy.com/shop/olivesandpearls

Trendy and eclectic jewelry! 30% off your entire purchase from 6am-12am MST Today!! Use coupon code BLACKFRIDAY10 at checkout.

Tindle Bears

http://www.artfire.com/users/tindlebears

I'm loving these so much I couldn't just pick on picture. Makers of fine artist teddy bears perfect for the archtophile in your family. All original designs and OOAK personalities. 25% off all artist teddy bears through Tuesday!

3rd Annual Cyber Monday BOGO SALE

2010-11-25T12:27:00.000-05:00

Starting Monday (Nov 29)

From 12am Monday until 7:59am
Buy 1 and get 1 free
on almost all items we sell!
(some exceptions)

From 8am Monday until 11:59pm
Buy 1 and get 1 1/2 off
on almost all items we sell!
(some exceptions)

This is the only store-wide sale we offer - so now's the time to stock up on scented delights from candles, Body Oils and Bath & Body items for all your friends and family.

In addition, we're offering a Doorbuster on the first 5 customers also receives
Free Shipping!

Once the sale is over we will go through orders and the first five orders the shipping will be refunded!

Terms of Sale

Buy 1 get 1 Free or 1/2 off of the same item. While supplies last.

All Candle items are eligible

Exceptions are: Samples, Gift Sets, packaged discount sets, accessories, reed diffusers and gift certificates.

Coupons and any other discounts are not accepted during this sale.

Sales valid ONLY from 12am Monday - 11:59pm Monday.

All times are EST.

Sale will not be held over nor backdated for out of stock items.

Thanksgiving & Black Friday/Cyber Monday Feature #5

2010-11-25T00:03:00.060-05:00

It's Turkey Day! Happy Thanksgiving everyone! I'm giving thanks for those pop-up timer things for the turkey and instant gravy. I think that is the easiest thing on my menu. Here's hoping nothing is undercooked, burns or I added salt instead of sugar. Anyway, I've come across so many marvelous mini shops that have hand crafted items on sale I hope to I get to them all. Look-see at these goodies!

Jewelry Song

http://www.etsy.com/shop/JewelrySong

Jewelry Song specializes in handmade wire wrapped and beaded jewelry. Feminine and fashionable accessories for fabulous women. 15% off the entire store!! Use coupon code BLACKFRIDAY10. This sale is valid now until Monday, Nov 29th at 8:00pm EST.

Tialys

http://www.artfire.com/users/tialys

Wonderful items made of fabric from tubbies, ornaments, wall art and sachets from France. Receive a free gift with every purchase now thru Monday.

Baby Nest

http://www.etsy.com/shop/BabyNest

Home of handmade ladies crochet fashion and jute baskets. This is a wonderful shop owner and incredibly she is offering 40%, 60% and even 80% off now through Boxing day (12/26/10). Prices are already marked for your shopping convenience.

Still Novo Designs

http://www.etsy.com/shop/StilNovoDesign

Unique eco-friendly elegant home decor, custom furniture & 'green' gift ideas are made with solid white oak wood staves reclaimed from French wine barrels. How cool is that!
Black Friday Free Shipping Day! Use coupon ‘BFFREESHIPPING’ at checkout on the 26th.

Black Friday & Cyber Monday Feature #4

2010-11-24T00:38:00.003-05:00

It's Wednesday and my Turkey is still defrosting so why not do a little early shopping for the holidays online. Many of these small businesses have pre-black Friday sales. Yeah!!

Designs by Elena Marie

http://www.artfire.com/users/DesignsbyElenaMarie

Delicate, handmade one of a kind earrings, necklaces and bracelets created with semi-precious gemstones, pearls and Swarovski crystals. The entire store is having a 10% off sale now thru 12/31/10.

Joyfully Sewn Designs

http://www.etsy.com/shop/JoyfullySewnDesigns

Isn't she cute! Carefully handmade, feminine dresses, jumpers, tops, skirts and more. Free Shipping! Also use coupon code THANKS10 for an additional 10% off!!

Farnum Ink Studio

http://www.etsy.com/shop/FarnumInkStudio

Stunning original paintings, fine art prints and photographs and note cards. An amazing 50% off any item in the shop until 12/2/10. Use coupon code THANKS2010

Black Friday & Cyber Monday Feature #3

2010-11-23T00:09:00.005-05:00

So I heard on the news a few days ago a couple has already started camping out at a store for their black Friday sale. Don't they know they can get better quality items here online?! Okay well I guess us handmade people don't make 50" plasmas for $200. But for so many other gift ideas take a look at these sales going on:

A Vintage Bride

http://www.etsy.com/shop/avintagebride

Unique One Of A Kind Re-Styled, Recycled, Re-Used, Vintage Bridal sprinkled with New England vintage treasures. Feather your nest with unique one-of-a-kind keepsakes, charming handmade vintage heirlooms. Free Shipping until December 8th. This shop is closing so grab these beautiful eclectic items before they go.

Linda Sudimak, Artisan

http://www.artfire.com/users/LindaSudimack

Hand crafted jewelry, using sterling silver, copper, brass, gold some with gemstones and/or pearls. This is a very eclectic collection with the majority of the item being one-of-a-kind. She is offering 20% off everything in her shop until 12/31/10. Use coupon code "Happy Holidays"

Art by Sunfire

http://www.artfire.com/users/artbysunfire

Beautifully made index card binders, index card journals, shabby chic jewelry boxes, recipe boxes, thank you note cards, HUGS note cards and much more. Check out her blog on "10 tips to use index card organizer." Offering Free Shipping for Black Friday & Cyber Monday.

Black Friday & Cyber Monday Feature #2

2010-11-22T00:06:00.017-05:00

It's day two of the several Black Friday & Cyber Monday sales of online handmade shops. Buy early as these items are so great I know they will be busy through December.

The Singing Beader

(http://www.artfire.com/users/Thesingingbeader)

Handmade gemstone necklaces, chain necklaces, pendants, chokers, bracelets, earrings, rings, macrame. A variety of styles at affordable prices. 25% off all items Black Friday through Cyber Monday. use coupon code BFCM25.

Artwork by Richard Derwitsch

http://www.artfire.com/users/rickderwitsch

Originals and Fine art by Richard Derwitsch are lovely! He is offering Free Shipping on everything in his shop in the U.S and Canada for Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

Cherrywood Spinster

http://www.etsy.com/shop/CherrywoodSpinster

Hand-knit mittens, stockings and hats. Free Shipping on all items in the shop from Nov 25th - 28th.

Black Friday & Cyber Monday Sale Feature #1

2010-11-21T17:30:00.000-05:00

I found many small shops with fantastic Black Friday & Cyber Monday sales. You won't have to stand in line for these deals!! Just a click of the button! If I were you I would bookmark these wonderfully talented shops, sit on your couch and click "buy" starting Friday morning!

Budding Creations

http://www.etsy.com/shop/buddingcreations

Budding Creations makes a selection of quality handmade french beaded flowers, plants, wedding bouquets, hair accessories, animals and more! Everything for Black Friday (11/26) and Cyber Monday (11/29) will be 35% off when used with promo code chat35.

Just Color

(http://www.artfire.com/users/JustColor)

Just Color makes handmade knitted and crochet hats, bags,scarves,fingerless gloves and crochet handmade jewelry such as necklaces, chokers, cuffs and bracelets. Just Color will be having a 15% off sale her entire shop until the end of the month!

Mouse Pants

(http://www.etsy.com/shop/MousePants)

Mouse Pants makes felted friend, artsy amimalia and handmade whimsies. 25% off anything in the shop with the coupon Code TURKEY. Also check out her Facebook page for insider sales and new items as well as new coupon codes!

What's in your backyard?

2010-11-13T12:05:00.002-05:00

I use to live in a quaint beach community popular with manhattan-nites during the summer. Every time I tell people I was raised four blocks from the beach and boardwalk most say "you probably went to the beach everyday." Like most people I didn't take advantage of much of the splendor that was right in my backyard as I got older and life got busier.

I'm afraid to admit it but I think like many New Yorkers, I haven't even been to the Statue of Liberty which is only 20 miles from me.

Now I live next to a park literally in my backyard. I walked out this morning for a brisk walk, to find some pine cones and take in the beauty of fall. Although I didn't find not one pine tree and I kept tripping because I was falling in love with the sights surrounding me. I used to think scenic pics were a waste of film if a person wasn't in it. How wrong was I! Taking pics of vacation spots are always nice but I come to appreciate what I have right in my backyard.

What's in your backyard?

Yarn Couture

2010-11-12T13:28:00.001-05:00

The temperature has dropped so this past weekend I took out all my winter clothes and packed up the summer shorts. I love the cold weather (it covers up all the flaws). Checkout the fabulous needlework I found at the shops on ArtFire. You won't find these at your local dept store!

Yarn Couture

Curated By: nikkicandles

ArtFire.com

Fine Art Photography

Buy Handmade!

Monthly Giveaway Galore

2010-11-01T14:33:00.001-04:00

Congrats to the October winner Lori from New Haven, CT for following and commenting on our blog.

Here is how you can win

Just for commenting you are automatically entered in our monthly giveaway.

Be our fan on Facebook and leave a comment about the topic or website.
Follow us on Twitter and tweet about us using nikkicandles or Nikki Makes Scents (sorry private tweets can't be seen and therefore cannot be counted)
Follow our Blog and leave comment about any of our post for the month (sorry private follows cannot be verified therefore cannot be counted) .
If you made a purchase, leave comments on our "what people are saying" page

It's that simple to win 5 candles from us!! (Please provide a way for us to contact you.)

Do all four each month and that will count as 4 entries to increase your chances!!

Comments such as "comment" or "I'm following you" are not considered comments! Please comment on our post, our products or whatever subject we are chatting or tweeting about this month.

(Previous winners within the year are not eligible to win again although we appreciate your support so let's hear from you too!)

My Favorite Season

2010-10-31T00:14:00.001-04:00

I know I'm a few weeks late and winter is just around the corner but only recently has the temperature dropped to the 50's and 60's. I am lucky to live on the east coast of the US to witness every autumn season and the beautiful changing of the leaves from green to golds, orange and browns. I love going apple and pumpkin picking. I love the color of pumpkins and squashes but end up giving them to neighbors because I'm not a of fan of eating pumpkin.

It's Halloween today and even though not many kids go trick-or-treating door to door anymore, I still get a warm fuzzy feeling seeing them in their cute store bought or homemade costumes. Oh and how they lighten up when they see you dropped chocolate in their bags! If you have Hershey's I think they text their friends that "this house has chocolate!" and you start getting swarms of them.

I've made three apple pies in as many weeks. Somehow as much as I love making and eating them I don't make them any other time of the year. I don't think there isn't anything I don't love about this season! Time to curl up by the fireplace with my scented pinecones, drink some orange-almond tea and cut another slice of pie!
What's your favorite season? Why?

Tee Hee Productions & Senior Moments

2010-10-10T14:43:00.004-04:00

As I raced downstairs this morning and as my foot hit the landing I completely forget what I came down there for. Instead, I clicked on the TV and tweeted my "senior moment" in the hopes it would spark a memory and find comfort in senior moment numbers. A few minutes later APearlLife sent me a tweet link of this card (left pic) of the Boomer Series Cards of Tee Hee Productions. I literally laughed out loud.

Not only are some of her greeting cards absolutely humorous, her artistry and skill are magnificent. Along with this series she makes custom pet portraits, and one-of-a-kind paintings, drawings and note cards. You should check her shop out.

Tee Hee Productions on Etsy.

By the way, I still have no clue why I came downstairs but since I'm here I guess I will go wash the dishes.

Monthly Giveaway Galore

2010-10-01T18:53:00.000-04:00

Congrats to the September winner Judy from Navarre, FL for fanning us and commenting on our Facebook Fanpage.

Here is how you can win

Just for commenting you are automatically entered in our monthly giveaway.

Be our fan on Facebook and leave a comment about the topic or website.
Follow us on Twitter and tweet about us using nikkicandles or Nikki Makes Scents (sorry private tweets can't be seen and therefore cannot be counted)
Follow our Blog and leave comment about any of our post for the month (sorry private follows cannot be verified therefore cannot be counted) .
If you made a purchase, leave comments on our "what people are saying" page

It's that simple to win 5 candles from us!! (Please provide a way for us to contact you.)

Do all four each month and that will count as 4 entries to increase your chances!!

Comments such as "comment" or "I'm following you" are not considered comments! Please comment on our post, our products or whatever subject we are chatting or tweeting about this month.

(Previous winners within the year are not eligible to win again although we appreciate your support so let's hear from you too!)

Scent Addiction Overload

2010-09-26T19:11:00.002-04:00

I'm not sure what came over me this past spring/summer, but I have been testing and trying over 100 new scents. I'm suppose to limit my scent addiction to purchasing twice a year...but I had a relapse and every other week I find another few fragrances I have to try! Some are the same scents from different vendors because I didn't like them but most are brand spankin' new.

The sound of that brown truck rolling up to the door means another box of fragrances are coming for me. I'm like a kid when the ice cream truck sings down the street! (I sound like and addict don't I?) I kinda stopped counting but I think that makes over 750 scents. I'm having some trials entering them all on the website so If you want one that isn't listed on the website just drop me a message. Here is the long long list (many already is my favorites). I need to go to a 12-step meeting now before my nose goes on overload.

Abercrombie + Fitch (M) type

Abercrombie + Fitch (W) type

Amaretto Nog

Apple Harvest

Apple Jack Peel
Apples + Maple Bourbon
Attitude
Avocado
Baobab Fruit Jam
Bergamot and Coriander
Bergamot Tobacco Archipelago
Bermuda
Black Amethyst type
Blueberry Cheesecake
Blue Musk
Brandied Pear
Brown Sugar + Fig
Butterscotch Candy
Campfire Cocoa
Caramelized Pralines
Cherish
Cherry Almond
Childdhood
Chocolate Biscotti
Christmas Cookie
Christmas Hearth
Cinnamon Bark
Cool Mountain Air
Cotton Candy
Cranapple
Cranberry Marmalade
Cucumber Apple Splash
Dancing Water
Deep fried Ice Cream
Dirt
Diva
Drama Queen
Ed Hardy (M) type
Frankincense Patchouli
Fresh Bread
Girls Night Out
Golden Goddess (W) type
Hana Rain
Hanae Mori (W) type
Hearts + Daggers type (W)
Japanese Garden
Jasmine Blossoms + Green Tea
Kettle Corn
Kumquat
Lemon Tea
Lotus
Love + Luck
Mangosteen Fruit
Mandarin Cranberry
Moon Lake Musk
New Car Smell
Pink Leis
Pinon
Pixie Dust
Pleasant Pie
Poeme (W) type
Puppies Breath
Red Velvet Cake
Root Beer
Royal pine Little Tree
Rum Raisin
Sandalwood Jasmine
Skin Milk
Smores
Sour Apple
Spiced Gumdrops
Spiced Wassail
Starfruit and Mango
Strawberry Banana
Sugar Rush
Tibet
Tobacco Pipe
Tea Leaf + Jasmine
Twinkle Toes
Vanilla Nut Spice
Violet Lime
Wasabi

White Tea + Berries
You Go Girl!

Do you remember when.....?

2010-09-11T00:41:00.003-04:00

I'm from New York but was living in Michigan at the time. Several days before it was my birthday so I had heard from my family members (all in New York suburbs and the NYC area) and their plans for that week. I worked in a hospital and the news of the attack came in shortly after we had all settled in at our desk in front of our computer for the morning.

The first time the towers were attacked my best friends husband was working in the building and escaped unharmed. This next time, nine years ago, I didn't know anyone personally who was harmed physically but hundreds that we scarred emotionally and felt vulnerable. As the second plane hit and we helplessly looked at the waiting room t.v I feared New York was under attack. Then reports of evacuations of skyscrapers and government buildings all over the country, everyone began to feel we weren't safe anywhere.

I couldn't get through to any of my family members for hours. The fear of knowing some of my relatives work and go to school in the area and then not knowing if they were okay was debilitating.

I'm back in New York now and closer to my family than ever. I don't know if it was that day or the fact I'm getting old but I value their importance in my life and try to reach out to them so they know I care whenever possible. Life is busy....but get busy strengthening the relationships that count.

This post isn't to spute any political/religious agenda or the differences or similarities we have with those who attacked America or our reasons for being at war nine years later. I wish for peace all around the world. "There is no medicine for hatred" - Publius Syrus

Where were you this day 9 years ago and how did it effect you?

Happy Birthday to Us!

2010-09-07T00:00:00.001-04:00

I found a bunch of great shops with wonderful items that just happen to have the same birthday as me. I'm sure almost nothing would make us happier than to make more sales on our birthday than ever before. Check them out.

'Happy Birthday to you!' by nikkicandles

All these wonderful shops share September 7th as their born day. Make there day with a purchase of their fantastic items.

Mickey/Minnie Custom Su... CookieCakeConf... $42	Bridge- Gaspeite irishbabies $67	Blue truck in dense woo... ForsterFotos $25	Trois Roses LaPatisserie $
Plant Quotes - Indoor P... ConstantGalore $10	Burnt Sugar Sweetness B... theyarnbakery $25	Double Happiness Pocket... glassdiane $15	Flora No.1 Ellagraph $25
CINDER AMA - Handspun a... pancakeandlulu $24	Beach Fence 5x7 black a... KevinWoycePhot... $10	MINT GREEN DRAGONFLY AN... CenterHillClay... $24	Aqua Blue Heart Bracele... CharmedByLeigh $17
SEA GLASS - Round Chunk... nikkicandles $7	Lovely Lace paperfrostingd... $8	VINTAGE MINOLTA AUTO PA... SecondLooker $65	Beautiful Fall Photo Pr... BoutiqueHermos... $17.99

Generated using Treasury HTML code generator by Whale Shark Websites.

Today only (Sept 7 2010) I am offering FREE SHIPPING on any size order within the U.S. Only $2 shipping if your outside the U.S. You won't find this deal on heavy candles without a minimum so take advantage of my birthday and get your favorites for the season now! Enter "BIRTHDAY" in the coupon code on our website or "Birthday" in the note to seller on ETSY. Offer good until 11:59pm 9/7/10

Monthly Giveaway Galore

2010-09-02T16:16:00.001-04:00

Congrats to the August winner Jackie from Salt Lake City for tweeting with us on twitter.

Here is how you can win

Just for commenting you are automatically entered in our monthly giveaway.

Be our fan on Facebook and leave a comment about the topic or website.
Follow us on Twitter and tweet about us using nikkicandles or Nikki Makes Scents (sorry private tweets can't be seen and therefore cannot be counted)
Follow our Blog and leave comment about any of our post for the month (sorry private follows cannot be verified therefore cannot be counted) .
If you made a purchase, leave comments on our "what people are saying" page

It's that simple to win 5 candles from us!! (Please provide a way for us to contact you.)

Do all four each month and that will count as 4 entries to increase your chances!!

Comments such as "comment" or "I'm following you" are not considered comments! Please comment on our post, our products or whatever subject we are chatting or tweeting about this month.

(Previous winners within the year are not eligible to win again although we appreciate your support so let's hear from you too!)

Scent of the Month - Banana Nut Bread

2010-09-01T18:56:00.000-04:00

If you didn't know (or so I've been told) the potassium in bananas are suppose to be good for headaches. For a frequent migraine sufferer I usually have some on hand. I have a tendency to like the banana skin to have lots of black spots on them. It taste sweeter to me. If you ever tasted sweet plantains then you can understand the deliciousness of an overly ripe mushy banana. But then there are limits. When the banana can't stand erect and is so mushy, time to make Banana Nut Bread. This is the perfect scent of the month for September as the nights become cooler, school is back in and the a/c is not in daily use. It reminds me of a homey tasty treat!

Old vs New

2010-08-30T19:36:00.000-04:00

If your a customer that has been rolling with us since the very beginning you are familiar with the old logo and the "new" one. Actually the new logo is 3 years old now. I actually still have some items with the old logo. I ordered about 100,000 matches with that logo. An old friend and awesome artist A. L. Dre made the logo with his partner from the company Melanin. I love the colors the, burning candle concept. I have it in many variations and it will remain my favorite. Then as I changed my website I found an up and coming web designer with a company called Quirky Bird. She couldn't incorporate the old logo so made a more streamlined one. I love this one too for so many different reasons. Although it's simpler it's easier to read and more commercial. Which is your favorite?

Monthly Giveaway Galore

2010-08-01T13:03:00.002-04:00

Congrats to the July winner R. Jones from Catonville, MD for commenting on our website.

Here is how you can win

Just for commenting you are automatically entered in our monthly giveaway.

Be our fan on Facebook and leave a comment about the topic or website.
Follow us on Twitter and tweet about us using nikkicandles or Nikki Makes Scents (sorry private tweets can't be seen and therefore cannot be counted)
Follow our Blog and leave comment about any of our post for the month (sorry private follows cannot be verified therefore cannot be counted) .
If you made a purchase, leave comments on our "what people are saying" page

It's that simple to win 5 candles from us!! (Please provide a way for us to contact you.)

Do all four each month and that will count as 4 entries to increase your chances!!

Comments such as "comment" or "I'm following you" are not considered comments! Please comment on our post, our products or whatever subject we are chatting or tweeting about this month.

(Previous winners within the year are not eligible to win again although we appreciate your support so let's hear from you too!)

Succulent!

2010-07-22T15:20:00.001-04:00

I have a brown thumb. I've killed Ferns, Bamboo, you name it. But I love plants and flowers so I keep trying. I feel in love with Monkeys Always Look. She sells mostly vintage silverware garden markers and succulents. It's been a month and as you can see they are still alive and getting compliments even from my green thumbed mom. Check out her stuff....I know I will be back for another terrarium!

Scent of Month - Summer Sorbet

2010-07-03T00:26:00.002-04:00

It's hot! This past June was recorded as one of the top four hottest June's for New York since recorded history. We've gotten some relief these past couple of days and it's about to turn into a week-long heat wave of 90+ for the holiday week.
What better way to cool off than the sitting back with a bowl to cool fruity refreshing sorbet. The thought of it just makes my mouth water! This scent is amazing and worthy of scent of the month for July. Available in many of our bath and body products as well as candle styles. See our custom candle design for this scent on Etsy.
What do you do to stay cool for the summer?

Monthly Giveaway Galore

2010-07-01T11:47:00.001-04:00

Congrats to the June winners Akacia from North Carolina for commenting on our fanpage and Debbie from Florida for your comment on our blog.

Here is how you can win

Just for commenting you are automatically entered in our monthly giveaway.

Be our fan on Facebook and leave a comment about the topic or website.
Follow us on Twitter and tweet about us using nikkicandles or Nikki Makes Scents (sorry private tweets can't be seen and therefore cannot be counted)
Follow our Blog and leave comment about any of our post for the month (sorry private follows cannot be verified therefore cannot be counted) .
If you made a purchase, leave comments on our "what people are saying" page

It's that simple to win 5 candles from us!! (Please provide a way for us to contact you.)

Do all four each month and that will count as 4 entries to increase your chances!!

Comments such as "comment" or "I'm following you" are not considered comments! Please comment on our post, our products or whatever subject we are chatting or tweeting about this month.

(Previous winners within the year are not eligible to win again although we appreciate your support so let's hear from you too!)

Summer Treats

2010-06-15T18:57:00.000-04:00

One might not think to much of candles during the summer season but we are more than a candle company. Check out these 3 summer treats I make for the season.

I love flowers and Dahlias are beautiful flowers to replicate into candles. These are a nice accent for a garden party in a bowl, your pool or pond.

Pina Colada Body Parfait. A light scrumptious moisturizer is a perfect beach accessory. The aloe soothes as the cream moisturizes.

Cucumber-Melon is a longtime favorite summer scent we used in this soap bar that will have you bathing for hours.

All items available on our website or our Etsy shop.

Monthly Giveaway Galore

2010-06-01T18:25:00.001-04:00

Since we were closed in May there is no winner BUT that means we will be giving away TWO giveaways the month of June!

Here is how you can win

Just for commenting you are automatically entered in our monthly giveaway.

Be our fan on Facebook and leave a comment about the topic or website.
Follow us on Twitter and tweet about us using nikkicandles or Nikki Makes Scents (sorry private tweets can't be seen and therefore cannot be counted)
Follow our Blog and leave comment about any of our post for the month (sorry private follows cannot be verified therefore cannot be counted) .
If you made a purchase, leave comments on our "what people are saying" page

It's that simple to win 5 candles from us!! (Please provide a way for us to contact you.)

Do all four each month and that will count as 4 entries to increase your chances!!

Comments such as "comment" or "I'm following you" are not considered comments! Please comment on our post, our products or whatever subject we are chatting or tweeting about this month.

(Previous winners within the year are not eligible to win again although we appreciate your support so let's hear from you too!)

We're Back!

2010-05-21T18:10:00.031-04:00

We are finally back in the swing of things after our move. After unpacking I realized the space isn’t that much bigger than the old one but we will make it work. For that reason we are having a Super-Duper Sale on over a dozen items to make room for new stuff for the fall. Check out all the sale items in our Etsy shop before they are gone! We are also offering FREE Shipping on total purchases over $75 on retail order until August 15th. (Use code FRESHIP at checkout on our website or list it in the comment section at checkout on our Etsy shop and we will refund all shipping via paypal after purchase.)

We are moving!

2010-04-26T00:00:00.001-04:00

We are moving! Looking the the perfect place that meets your needs has been arduous. I haven't moved in 7 years but with ceiling tiles falling on you and flying carpenter ants (or termites) I knew it was my sign to go. Our new space is a little bigger but brighter. It's also a great excuse to now organize everything I have for smoother processing. That also means shopping for lots of shelves, lighting and new equipment! If I have time I'll take some pics of before and after if I'm not stressed from the move. I only started packing and I have about 20 boxes and don't see any progress. The biggest dread is packaging and securing my over 650 scents and hoping the movers take care in what I consider my most expensive business property....Perhaps I will load them in my truck instead. Anybody have any moving horror stories?

Earth Day

2010-04-22T09:40:00.050-04:00

I love the earth. Selfishly it sustains me and very often I don't give a second thought where my food comes from and where my waste goes. I've done my minimal part by not littering, recycling, turning off lights or unplugging items not in use and using the front and back of paper as well as little other things. But I know there are many other things I could and should be doing. I'm glad there is an Earth Day to keep me (us) aware that this beautiful planet is in our hands and if we just give a little to it Mother Earth will respond tenfold!
The TV and movie specials and new gadgets and ideas to keep earth healthy and happy makes us so much more aware than years ago and it is so easy now there is no excuse. Have you watched the series Life? If you haven't already watch it, TIVO it or get it on video. This is how beautiful, intelligent, resourceful and amazing life is......let's sustain it!

Blue Banana made the front page of Etsy!

2010-04-20T00:05:00.001-04:00

This spectacular rendition of blue and yellow was made by a painter PatMcWhorter
and Etsian. It was featured on the front page of Etsy Monday morning. Check out Blue Banana in the right lower corner. These are votives I made for a listing on the Etsy shop currently still available but you can purchase this scent in any candle or bath & body style.

National Pecan Day

2010-04-14T03:08:00.038-04:00

I'm not into nuts (except for my nutty life). I heard pecans are good in antioxidants to assist reducing the threats of cancer. I wonder if I smother them in chocolate I can get the same benefits.

If your in Texas you may know that the pecan tree is the official tree for Texas. My good friend who now lives in South Carolina says there is a pecan festival that happens annually. Alabama has made the pecan the official state nut! The south loves their pecans!

Wherever your from or how ever your like your pecans (roasted pecans, pralines, pecan pie, butter pecan) Enjoy...and go nuts!!

Freebies on the net - April

2010-04-02T13:13:00.010-04:00

April is here and we found lots of colorful bright goodies to celebrate Spring.

Face of Time Steampunk Necklace from Mystic Pieces. Go to the blog Simply Stacie for more details. Hurry; giveaway ends April 4th!

Enter to win your choice of Sixpence and Sunshine dresses. Go to Cool Baby Kid for more details. Contest ends 4/15/2010.

Reflection Lost Limited Edition Silver Gelatin Print by Mary Togni Original Art.

More details at this forum post. Giveaway ends April 11th.

Win your choice of 2 Jewelry Peaces (pun intended) by Little Miss Momma Blog.

Giveaway ends April 15th.

Pillow Pets. Go to Thank the Mail Carrier for more details. Contest ends April 22nd.

Madison Necklace by Lennah Go to Mom's Focus on CyberWorld blog for more details. Giveaway ends April 10th.

A triple giveaway by Munieca Art and Paper Crafts. Go to munieca's Facebook Fanpage for more details. Giveaway ends April 10th

Sea Green Teardrop Ear Thread Earrings by Grey Cat Designs.

Go to GreyCat's Blog for more details. Contest ends April 19th.

Monthly Giveaway Galore

2010-04-01T00:45:00.002-04:00

Congrats to Tabitha from Ohio for tweeting with us on Twitter and therefore being our Giveaway winner for March!!

Here is how you can win

Just for commenting you are automatically entered in our monthly giveaway.

Be our fan on Facebook and leave a comment about the topic or website.
Follow us on Twitter and tweet about us using nikkicandles or Nikki Makes Scents (sorry private tweets can't be seen and therefore cannot be counted)
Follow our Blog and leave comment about any of our post for the month (sorry private follows cannot be verified therefore cannot be counted) .
If you made a purchase, leave comments on our "what people are saying" page

It's that simple to win 5 candles from us!! (Please provide a way for us to contact you.)

Do all four each month and that will count as 4 entries to increase your chances!!

Comments such as "comment" or "I'm following you" are not considered comments! Please comment on our post, our products or whatever subject we are chatting or tweeting about this month.

(Previous winners within the year are not eligible to win again although we appreciate your support so let's hear from you too!)

FUgly Edition #3 – Zebra votives

2010-03-24T00:12:00.044-04:00

Last summer an etsy team I belong to suggested one month we all create something “jungle-themed.” Be it the color, pattern, animal or whatever. This got my creative juices flowing. I decided to make votives in a zebra-type pattern and color. Thus the result.

First of, a zebra pattern isn’t strictly vertical so that should have been my first clue. I made the pieces to thick to bind properly so some as you can see aren’t. I made the black strips scented in Black Cherry. When I binded them with wax the colors blended into a transparent Grey look. I think I should have renames this masterpiece to "black sky scrapers in smog". So I tried it again.

I added white strips scented in coconut so when you light it the aroma of Black Cherry-Coconut fills the air. Some did bind but look awful so if you want them they are yours for shipping cost only. I would suggest putting them in a tight fitting votive holder. If you are purchasing something similar in size something else I will throw them in the box for ya (first come first serve).
I scratched this idea and went for this fall scented look

These Crackling Firewood Octives sold out constantly last fall. So trial and error....and error paid off.

Welcome to the world Skylar!

2010-03-11T00:00:00.003-05:00

One of my oldest and dearest friends had a baby girl not to long ago. After a very touch and go high risk pregnancy that had her on bed rest the whole time I am so happy the mother & baby are healthy and happy. I had a chance to visit them this evening and she is so tiny and precious. I'm so happy for her. I brought over some goodies for mom and new baby and she loved them.

Mommy + Mini Me Gift Set

She still has the candle I made for her for her son's birth several years ago. Imagine that! Big brother has been begging for sibling for years but when the crucial time came to visit little sister in the hospital his words were "Do I have to go see her? I will see her for the rest of my life" Out of the mouths of babes.

Banana Cream Pie Day

2010-03-02T01:28:00.003-05:00

Today is Banana Cream Pie Day! I kid you not. I didn’t find any interesting facts as to why this dessert has it’s own day and who dubbed this National Banana Cream Pie day. Maybe banana farmers or bakers of award winning Banana cream pies wanted recognition. Can this be sanctioned by someone other than the president? Okay, I’m thinking to deeply about this. The only tidbits I found out was that Banana Cream Pie was the favorite dessert in the U.S Armed Forces in 1951 (I guess devil dogs weren’t invented yet).

Nonetheless, I never tried this creamy delight before. I don’t think I will start now since as I age I’m getting more and more lactose intolerant. I’m not really into fruit pies anyway except if I make a homemade apple pie. Yet fruit pies always looks and smell so delicious.

I do however love the scent of bananas and therefore will discount this scent for today only.

20% off any product with the scent Banana Cream Pie on my website.

We also have a listing currently on sale at Etsy.

Check out this recipe link for Banana Cream Pie Cupcakes that I found on Delish.com that sound yummy if you want to make one.

Otherwise, buy one at the bakery. I asked my local bakery if he was aware of this holiday and he gave me a blank stare. I just happen to be the godmother of the owners’ his firstborn and he still wasn’t taking any percent off a cream pie I was bringing in for my staff . (I thought I would try.)

If your on a diet get the scent in a candle, air freshener or bath + body product… its the next best thing!

PS: Just so you can plan your meals accordingly March is National Nutrition Month but this Thursday (3/4) is National PoundCake Day and Friday (3/5) is National Cheese Doodle Day.
Go figure.

Monthly Giveaway Galore

2010-03-01T00:00:00.007-05:00

Congrats to Sandra from Delaware for commenting on our "What people are saying" page and therefore being our Giveaway winner for February!!

Here is how you can win

Just for commenting you are automatically entered in our monthly giveaway.

Be our fan on Facebook and leave a comment about the topic or website.
Follow us on Twitter and tweet about us using nikkicandles or Nikki Makes Scents (sorry private tweets can't be seen and therefore cannot be counted)
Follow our Blog and leave comment about any of our post for the month (sorry private follows cannot be verified therefore cannot be counted) .
If you made a purchase, leave comments on our "what people are saying" page

It's that simple to win 5 candles from us!! (Please provide a way for us to contact you.)

Do all four each month and that will count as 4 entries to increase your chances!!

Comments such as "comment" or "I'm following you" are not considered comments! Please comment on our post, our products or whatever subject we are chatting or tweeting about this month.

(Previous winners within the year are not eligible to win again although we appreciate your support so let's hear from you too!)

FUgly Edition #2 – Floral scented Soy votives

2010-02-17T00:14:00.002-05:00

These really aren’t that ugly and smell so good. These are 100% soybean wax votives with some chips and outer imperfections. Other than that they are wonderful! They were an order that was shipped back undeliverable because the customer never picked them up from the post office. The additional trip was a little rough on my votives so I am extending discount for them exclusively on Etsy.

Heart for Haiti - Update

2010-02-07T00:17:00.002-05:00

My favorite shop received some well deserved recognition by the Etsy organization with a blog feature several days ago which revived the Hearts for Haiti shop with even more donations and sales They have raised over $28,000 to Doctors without Borders
Currently there are over 1100 items for sale and over 2200 items sold!

Check out their blog (Etsy for Haiti) for more updates and features on the wonderful people who organize this shop around the clock.

Here are some more of my favorites I picked as great Valentine's Day presents. Don't forget all proceeds go to Doctors Without Borders (less paypal and etsy fees) and FREE shipping on everything in the shop!

I Love You Romantic Valentine's Day Glass Tile and Resin Pendant

by Charmed by Heather

Voluptuous Heart Lucite and Brass Necklace

by Michvanetta

Alainn Signature Heart by Alainn

Keep Haiti in your Heart!

Freebies on the net - February

2010-02-05T00:02:00.091-05:00

So many freebies I have found this month are based around Valentines Day so make sure you enter soon! Check them out!

Fabric and Marble Necklace by KateBobate

go to oKateBobateo's Fanpage for details. Offer ends Feb 8th

Kawaii owl and tree Zippy Poof pouch from Teepetal's Shop

Go to the Blog for giveaway details. Offer ends Feb 12th

(the five bucks and chapstick not included)

Sea Breeze Teal Glass Earrings Expressions By Cheree

Go to the Blog for details. Offer ends Feb 12th.

Heart on the Line Print by Sweet Harvey Letterpress

Go to the Blog for details. Offer ends Feb 12th.

Mobius Flower Sterling Silver Earring and Pendant Set by
Sunny Skies Sterling Silver Jewelry

Go to the EtsyStalker for details. Offer ends Feb 9th.

Multicolored Hearts Valentine's Day Card by Move the Needle Paper Crafts

Go to My Thread of Thought for details. Offer ends Feb 8th.

Eye Shadow Kit by Pure Natural Minerals

Go to Handmade Beauty for details. Offer ends Feb 14th.

Ginbug Bows - Receive a free Korker Bow
w/purchase of a Shoe Korker or Croc Korker. No expiration date.

"Autumn Bride" fine print by Erin Garrison Design
Go to Erin Garrison's Blog for entry details. Offer ends Feb 8th.

I love this shop. Go to Nest Blossoms blog for details.

Are you romantic or romantically-challenged?

2010-02-03T00:02:00.005-05:00

I'm not a romance expert. In fact several years ago I sent a former boyfriend on a treasure hunt. I hid the items all around town with what I thought were cute poetic hints where to him were confusing brain teasers that got him lost for over 3 hours and caught in the rain. By the time he got back I was asleep and he was wet and angry! Needless to say we are no longer together.

Here are some romantic ideas I love doing for the person I love and I love having done to me!!

Breakfast in Bed

My DH only expressed how much he loves when I gave him breakfast in bed until I stopped doing it. A lesson learned for both of us is always express your appreciation and don't stop doing the things you did to get him/her.

365 Kisses

I love this idea by LovingYou.com. Buy an inexpensive decorative jar or container. Then buy 365 Hershey Kisses, one for every day of the year. On the Hershey paper tabs, write one thing you like, love, or appreciate about your significant other, and only allow them to have one each day for a year. It takes some time and thought, but they will think of you with every daily kiss. This is a great idea when distance is involved, but works wonders at home too.

Video Love

Profess your love online or have your dog do it for you.

Scrap off the ice

I know this isn't the most romantic for some but my less than romantic DH made my heart melt one cold morning when he did this. I usually leave for work two hours before he does. This morning he pretended he just got up and was taking the garbage out front. I got to the driveway and the ice was scraped off the windows of my car, the heat was on at the perfect temperature, and by my CD player a post-it next to a CD said "play me." It said simply "Have a good day at work and get there safe...I love you" followed by a compilation of my favorite songs. I was so touched I called in sick!!

ForPlay Kit

I made this Bath + Body True Love Kit since my romantic treasure hunt didn't work out so well. Something you can do together!

Start off by getting in the shower together and lathering each other with the 2 honey-based bars. Don't forget to say "Kiss Me Honey."
Once you get out the shower light our chunk candle to set the mood.
Moisturize each others dry parts to keep them baby soft.
Top of the "play" with a relaxing massage.
Feed each other the 2 enticing chocolates we've added.
The rest of the night is up to you!

Find this kit on my website or on Etsy.

Try some or all of these throughout the weeks of the year and not just Feb 14th.

Do you have any romantic ideas or funny flops you care to share?

Monthly Giveaway Galore

2010-02-01T09:27:00.003-05:00

Congrats to Zion from Quebec for commenting and following our blog and therefore being our Giveaway winner for January!!

Here is how you can win

Just for commenting you are automatically entered in our monthly giveaway.

Be our fan on Facebook and leave a comment about the topic or website.
Follow us on Twitter and tweet about us using nikkicandles or Nikki Makes Scents (sorry private tweets can't be seen and therefore cannot be counted)
Follow our Blog and leave comment about any of our post for the month (sorry private follows cannot be verified therefore cannot be counted) .
If you made a purchase, leave comments on our "what people are saying" page

It's that simple to win 5 candles from us!! (Please provide a way for us to contact you.)

Do all four each month and that will count as 4 entries to increase your chances!!

Comments such as "comment" or "I'm following you" are not considered comments! Please comment on our post, our products or whatever subject we are chatting or tweeting about this month.

(Previous winners within the year are not eligible to win again although we appreciate your support so let's hear from you too!)

Do you affiliate with us?

2010-01-24T01:12:00.006-05:00

Did you know we have an affiliate program where you can earn cash or products by simply doing what you already probably do online?

So what is an affiliate program you say? Refer people to the website and if they make a purchase you receive a percentage of the sale! It's that easy!

Here is how it works:

Sign up and we provide a unique link code to use on your blog, website, twitter, facebook, emails yada yada yada. Or you can use our banner.
Anytime someone clicks on the link and purchases something you receive a percentage of the sale.
We compensate affiliates monthly if the commission balance is over $20 via their PayPal account or you can use the credit towards any of our products.
Refer others to our affiliate program and receive 3% of their sales too!!

It's that simple!

Sign up here