Ever wonder what people mean when they talk about “fragrance notes” in candles?

You’re not alone.

Understanding the fragrance notes in candles can help you select the perfect scent for your space and mood.

At Southern Oak Artisan, we craft every candle with intention, and that includes curating the ideal balance of notes to create a complete and satisfying scent experience.

What Are Fragrance Notes in Candles?

Fragrance notes are the individual scent components that make up the full aroma profile of a candle. Think of it like a song: each note plays a part in the full composition.

Notes are generally broken into three categories:

• Top Notes: These are the first scents you notice when you light a candle. They’re usually light and fresh and tend to fade quickly. Think citrus, herbs, or soft florals.
• Middle (Heart) Notes: These make up the core of the scent and develop once the top notes evaporate. You’ll often find florals, fruits, or spices here. This is where the candle’s personality lives.
• Base Notes: These are the foundation, lingering longest after the candle is out. Base notes tend to be richer and more profound: woods, musk, amber, and vanilla are common.

The best candles strike a balance among these three levels, offering a well-rounded and layered scent experience.

Why Fragrance Notes Matter

Knowing how fragrance notes work can make shopping for candles way easier.

You should also read more about why candle’s scent changes over time.

Have you ever bought a candle that smelled amazing in the jar but gave you a headache when you lit it?

That could be an overpowering top note with no support. Or it smelled like nothing, which could mean the base was too weak.

At Southern Oak Artisan, we pay close attention to blending notes that complement each other and burn evenly throughout the candle’s life.

It’s not just about a good first impression; it’s about a scent that holds up.

Southern Oak Artisan Examples

Here are a few of our candles and how their notes work together:

• Namaste
  • Top: Lavender
  • Middle: Chamomile, Sage
  • Base: Sandalwood

The result? A grounded, calming scent that helps you unwind.

• Orange Grove
  • Top: Mandarin
  • Middle: Orange Blossom
  • Base: Light Musk

Bright and fresh with a soft finish that doesn’t overwhelm.

• Wood Nymph
  • Top: Green Leaves
  • Middle: Cedarwood
  • Base: Amber

Earthy and warm, ideal for cozy nights or nature lovers.

How to Use Notes to Find Your Next Favorite Candle

• If you prefer fresh and clean scents, look for top notes such as lemon, mint, or eucalyptus.
• If you prefer romantic or floral, middle notes like rose, jasmine, or peony are your go-to.
• Love something profound and cozy? Base notes like vanilla, musk, or patchouli are what you want.

The more you know your preferences, the easier it gets to pick candles that suit your vibe.

Build Your Scent Vocabulary

Once you start noticing fragrance notes, you’ll get better at describing what you love (and what you don’t).

That’s why we list complete scent profiles in all our product descriptions, because picking the right candle shouldn’t be a guessing game.

Ready to shop like a scent-savvy pro?

Explore our full candle collection and find a fragrance that fits you perfectly.

Be sure to take our scent personality quiz to identify the candle that best matches your enjoyment of fragrances.

About The Author

Beverly Mecum

Hi, I’m Beverly Mecum, chandler and owner of Southern Oak Artisan. I believe that creating sustainable and health-minded products should not be a compromise. My goal is to curate candles that align with our aesthetic: simple, cozy, and bringing joy to your home.

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