Journal

Our Candle Journal is a unique collection of posts and stories about our brand and useful information about all things candle related.

For example, here you will find information on candle care, how to re-purpose your empty candle container, why trimming your wick is important and other helpful information to ensure the best olfactory experience of your Luci di Lucca candle.

Luxury scented candles inspired by Villa Grabau in Lucca, Tuscany

Luxury Gifts from Lucca: Scented Candles Inspired by Tuscany

If you are looking for luxury gifts from Lucca, a handmade scented candle captures the atmosphere of Tuscany in a unique and lasting way. Luci di Lucca candles are inspired by the historic gardens of Villa Grabau and handcrafted locally using refined fragrance blends. Produced in small batches, each candle is designed to bring a quiet piece of Lucca into your home.

The Power of Scent and Memory

Scent has a remarkable ability to evoke places and moments. A single fragrance can transport us back to a sunlit garden, a summer evening, or the warm stone streets of an Italian city. For many visitors, Lucca is remembered not only for its historic walls and elegant piazzas, but also for its gardens, citrus groves, and the distinctive atmosphere of Tuscany.

A carefully crafted scented candle can recreate that experience long after a journey has ended. Lighting a candle inspired by the landscapes of Tuscany offers a simple way to reconnect with the feeling of being in Lucca — whether at home or far away.

Inspiration from Villa Grabau

The inspiration behind Luci di Lucca comes from the botanical park of Villa Grabau, a historic villa just outside the city walls. Surrounded by centuries-old trees, hidden garden paths, and seasonal flowers, the gardens provide a constant source of fragrance inspiration.

Each Luci di Lucca candle is created with this setting in mind. The fragrances are carefully developed to evoke elements of the Tuscan landscape — citrus trees warmed by the sun, aromatic herbs, roses, woods, and spices. These scent compositions are designed to feel elegant and timeless, reflecting both the natural beauty of the gardens and the refined atmosphere of Lucca itself.

Every candle is handcrafted in small batches using plant-based wax and cotton wicks. This slow, careful production ensures quality while preserving the artisanal character that defines the brand.

A Meaningful Gift That Captures the Spirit of Lucca

For visitors searching for a thoughtful gift from Lucca, a scented candle offers something more meaningful than a typical souvenir. It captures a sense of place — a reminder of Tuscan gardens, warm evenings, and the quiet beauty of the city.

A Unique Souvenir from Lucca

Whether chosen as a gift or personal keepsake, a Luci di Lucca candle is one of the most distinctive luxury gifts from Lucca, allowing the fragrance of Tuscany to linger long after the journey home.

Explore our collection of Italian luxury scented candles inspired by Lucca and the gardens of Villa Grabau.

Handmade Glass Cloche Dome Cover for Candles

Glass Cloches for Candles: Handmade Elegance from Europe

A crystal-clear dome and solid brass base. A refined way to protect and elevate your candle.

There’s something captivating about the silhouette of a glass cloche — its curved, bell-like shape feels at once historic and modern, delicate yet protective.  When I was designing a cloche for my candle line, I knew it had to feel just as special as the fragrances it was made to encase.

History of Glass Cloches

The word cloche comes from the French word for “bell,” and its history dates back to 17th-century France, where these domed glass covers were first used in gardens to protect young plants from frost. However, when you dig a little deeper,  you find that cloches actually originated in Italy, as bell-shaped glass covers to protect plants from the elements. Over time, these glass domes evolved — from humble horticultural tools into elegant display pieces.

Today, the cloche is a symbol of refined taste. It’s used to showcase treasures: a rare bloom, a beloved keepsake — or in our case, a luxury Luci di Lucca candle.

Since I couldn’t find the exact shape for my glass domes in Italy,  I turned to another storied glassmaking region: Poland. There, skilled artisans hand-blow each cloche exclusively for us. Every one is slightly unique, bearing the marks of the human hands that crafted it. To complete the design, I paired it with a simple, solid, sculptural brass base.

The result? A glass cloche that’s as functional as it is beautiful.

Why use a Glass Cloche?

A glass cloche protects the candle from dust, helps preserve the full integrity of the fragrance between burns, and adds a striking touch to any room.  It also adds a beautiful touh to your home decor. The solid brass base grounds the design giving it presence and polish — while the clear dome creates a quiet moment of ceremony every time you lift it.

At Luci di Lucca, I’m constantly inspired by old-world craftsmanship and the European tradition of making things slowly, intentionally, and beautifully. This cloche is a reflection of that ethos.

I hope it becomes part of your rituals — a small, exquisite detail that elevates the everyday.

Candles with Smooth Tops

Candle Making – Tips for Achieving Smooth Tops

Curious about how to achieve smooth candle tops  on your candles?

It’s not as easy as it looks to achieve lovely smooth candle tops —several factors come into play and can make or break that flawless surface.  Here are some key variables to keep in mind:

Wax Type:

Not all waxes are created equal! For example, soy wax tends to frost and may give an uneven surface, while paraffin wax usually produces a shiny, smooth finish. Always check the manufacturer’s technical data sheets to understand how the wax behaves, the maximum fragrance load and recommended melt and pour temperatures .

Pouring Temperature:

The right temperature is crucial. If you pour the wax mixture too hot, and you may end up with sinkholes or other imperfections. Pouring at a lower temp can help produce a smoother surface , but don’t forget that room temperature and sudden drafts can also affect how the candle sets.

Candle Cooling Speed:

Slow and steady wins the race! Candles that cool too fast can crack, pull away from the glass or end up with uneven surfaces. Gradual cooling at room temperature is key to achieving a smooth candle surface.

Fragrance and Dye Load:

Less is more. Overloading your wax with fragrance or dye can lead to pitting and an uneven finish.

Stirring and Mixing:

Over-stirring after adding fragrance or dye introduces air bubbles, which can lead to uneven surfaces once the wax hardens.

Container Temperature:

A cold container can cause the wax to set too quickly, leading to wrinkles or an uneven surface. Preheating your containers helps the wax cool more evenly.  You can also try wrapping them in aluminium foil to keep them the same temperature.

Room temperature:

Try to keep the ambient room at around 23 – 26 degrees Celsius when pouring candles.  Keep a room thermometer handy so you can regularly monitor the temperature.

Humidity:

High humidity levels can interfere with how the wax sets, leaving you with a bumpy surface. Controlling the room or environment in which you are making candles is just as important.

Second Pour (Top-Off):

If you do all the right things and still don’t get a smooth finish on the first pour – don’t worry! I find that a second, very thin pour can help smooth out imperfections and give you a luxurious looking candle.

Managing these factors will help you achieve smooth candle tops but of course, practice (and a lot of patience!) makes perfect!

 

Otium - Luxury scented Italian Candles 275g and 55g

Have you heard about Quiet Luxury?

Have you heard about Quiet Luxury?

It’s been trending on my social feeds recently, and when I first encountered the concept, it really resonated with me. Quiet Luxury celebrates understated elegance, refined simplicity, and timeless style. It’s about quality and craftsmanship rather than loud branding. Brands that embody Quiet Luxury focus on subtle details, high-quality materials, and a sense of exclusivity born from their craftsmanship—not flashy logos or fleeting trends.

No Flashy Logos

When I developed Luci di Lucca candles, I unknowingly embraced the essence of Quiet Luxury from the start. I worked with my brand designer, Roland Butcher, who truly captured the look and feel I envisioned. He created an elegant logo that I absolutely love—simple, understated, and timeless. We carried this aesthetic into our packaging, with matte finishes, subtle textures, and a classic color palette. Our candles are poured in matte black and white glasses, featuring only the logo—no flashy labels—so the focus remains on the quality of the candle.

Less is more!

Building a candle brand in such a competitive market isn’t easy, but I’m proud of what I’ve created. Our candles are crafted slowly, with meticulous attention to detail, using only the finest materials and vegetable waxes. I launched with just three unique fragrances, each designed to provide an authentic, exclusive experience. People often ask if I plan to introduce more scents, but that’s the whole point of Quiet Luxury—less is more!!.

In a world dominated by loud brands and fast trends, Luci di Lucca candles stand for something different—luxury that whispers rather than shouts. For those who appreciate craftsmanship and the beauty in simplicity, our candles are the embodiment of Quiet Luxury.

Candle Snuffer

Candle Snuffer – the safe way to extinguish a candle

What exactly is a candle snuffer you may ask?  Its a simple tool for safely extinguishing or “snuffing” out the flame of a burning candle.

Originating in ancient Rome, candle snuffers were usually made of bronze or other metals.  In the Middle Ages, they became more ornate and were often made of silver or gold or even porcelain. They were considered a status symbol and were often given as gifts to royalty and other high-ranking officials!

Today, candle snuffers are still used as a decorative and practical tool for candle lovers. They come in a variety of styles and materials, from simple metal snuffers to more elaborate designs with decorative handles.  They are also a great way to add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any candle display.

Why use a candle snuffer?

Candle snuffers help to prevent wax from spattering and can extend the life of a candle by preventing the wick from smoking.  To use a candle snuffer, simply hold it over the candle flame until the flame is extinguished.

Whether you’re a candle enthusiast or simply looking for a way to add a touch of elegance to your home decor, a candle snuffer is a must-have accessory.

Personalised Scented Candle Wedding Favours

The connection between Scent and Memory

Making Scents of Memories: The Powerful Connection  Between Scent and Emotion

Did you know that scent has a stronger connection to memory than any other sense? Our sense of smell is not only the most emotional but also the most evocative. Just a single whiff can transport you to a forgotten moment—reminding you of where you were, who you were with, and exactly how you felt. That’s because scent plays a direct role in shaping our emotional responses and preserving vivid memories.

So, how does this powerful connection work? The answer lies within the limbic system, the part of the brain that processes emotions and memory. When you inhale, air passes over two key components of your nose: the olfactory epithelium and the olfactory bulb. These structures detect scent molecules and send signals through your nervous system to the brain. There, your brain interprets the scent by combining past experiences and input from your other senses—what researchers call cross-modal perception.

The Role of Scent in Weddings

Incorporating fragrance into your wedding is a beautiful way to make the day even more unforgettable. Even something as simple as lighting a few scented candles can transform your ceremony or reception into a sensory experience that guests will remember for years to come. For example, a gentle note of lemon or jasmine drifting through the space can become the olfactory signature of your celebration.

To take it a step further, consider giving guests a small, hand-poured scented candle wedding favor.  Include a thoughtful card explaining the fragrance and its connection to your day. Not only does this make a meaningful keepsake, but it also invites your guests to relive the joy of your celebration each time they light it.

By weaving scent into your wedding planning, you do more than create ambiance—you create lasting emotional impressions that will stay with your guests long after the day ends.

Nobile Rose Oud Luxury Scented Candle

Nobile – The Story behind the fragrance

Our Nobile rose oud candle fragrance encapsulates a true sense of aristocracy, nobility, power and privilege all in one scent.

It is a tribute to the aristocratic merchant class of Lucca who rose to prominence during the 11th century. In particular,  the families of Cenami, Bonvisi, Antelminelli, Bernardini, Orsetti, Diodati, Cittadella, Castracani, Guinigi, Burlamacchi and Arnolfini became wealthy and powerful as a result of Lucca being the centre of the silk trade.  Through their wealth and power, the city of Lucca became an independent republic and remained so for more than 500 years.  Indeed, in the 14th Century,  Lucca rivaled Florence as the  dominant city of central Italy.

This prosperity of the walled city of Lucca attracted many of Europe’s pre-eminent artists, musicians and architects, who were seeking the patronage of the new aristocracy and merchant class. Opulence was the order of the day, and spectacular villas such as Villa Reale, Torrigiani, Diodati (now Grabau), Bonvisi (now Oliva) and Mansi became well known in the world of refinement, luxury, architectural grandeur and importance. These magnificent residences with their spectacular gardens became a reflection of one’s significance and status in society and their owners went to extraordinary lengths to embellish their gardens with beautiful and exotic plants from around the world.

Olfactory Profile

Top notes: Madagascar black pepper, nutmeg, saffron

Heart notes: damask rose essential oil, rose absolute

Base notes: oud, sandalwood, vetivert

 

Floral Jasmine Fragrance of the renaissance garden at Villa Grabau

Otium – The Story behind the Fragrance

Floral Jasmine Scented Candle

Otium, our floral jasmine-scented candle, draws its inspiration from the serene Renaissance gardens of Villa Grabau —a place where nature, art, and tranquility come together in perfect harmony.

As Pliny the Younger, the Ancient Roman author and magistrate, once wrote, the true purpose of a garden was “otium”—a peaceful retreat that provided rest and reflection, far from the demands of public life (negotium). In ancient times, gardens were not merely decorative; rather, they were carefully designed sanctuaries for contemplation, relaxation, and escape.

Destination Wedding Venue

Today, the garden at Villa Grabau continues to embody this same spirit of otium. It offers an enchanting setting for summer weddings, ideal for enjoying an aperitivo amidst fragrant jasmine and the bright citrus notes of blooming lemon trees. Not only is it visually striking, but it also creates a multisensory experience that lingers in memory.

This symmetrical terraced garden features two majestic, obelisk-shaped magnolia trees and wide oval lawns. Additionally, over 70 antique lemon pots—each bearing the noble coat of arms of Lucca’s historic families—line the space with heritage and charm. Geranium-filled terracotta pots stand neatly along the balustrade, carved from the soft, warm-hued Matraia stone.

At the base of the garden’s terraced stairs, vibrant trumpet vines burst with fiery orange blossoms. Meanwhile, two bronze Satiro heads spout water into fountains inlaid with glittering rock crystals, quartz, and tufa mosaics. As guests wander along the winding, shady paths—framed by bay laurel and boxwood hedges—they often discover secluded stone benches and tables, offering quiet corners to pause, breathe, and reflect.

Olfactory Profile – Floral Jasmine-Scented Candle

Top Notes: Mint, mandarin, lemon, pine needle

Heart Notes: Neroli, jasmine, petitgrain, ylang ylang

Base Notes: Cedarwood, amber, vetivert

 

La Limonaia - luxurious Lemon Bergamot Scented Candle

La Limonaia – The Story behind the Fragrance

La Limonaia: A Lemon Bergamot Scented Candle Inspired by the Romance of Villa Grabau

Our La Limonaia fragrance is more than just a lemon bergamot scented candle—it transports you straight to Tuscany.

Inspired by the historic Limonaia  at Villa Grabau, this scent pays homage to a majestic winter conservatory originally built to shelter lemon trees. During the summer months, however, it transforms into one of the estate’s most magical wedding venues. Cascading vines of Ficus pumila trail from centuries-old beams, while the gentle murmur of the Bacchus fountain—the Roman god of wine—adds a soft, lyrical rhythm to the atmosphere.

As sunlight filters through the open wooden doors, breezes scented with citrus and flowers drift in from the gardens. Here, nature and architecture blend seamlessly. The cool stone walls embrace the warmth of the outside air, creating a setting that feels both refined and untamed. In this enchanting space, inspiration was born. La Limonaia captures the spirit of Tuscan romance and translates it into a candle that celebrates both tradition and sensorial beauty.

The fragrance unfolds in layers. First, it opens with crisp and invigorating top notes of lemon zest, bergamot, and Sicilian myrtle. Next, the heart reveals a bouquet of Florentine iris, neroli, and jasmine—floral yet balanced with a refined softness. Finally, the base settles into a warm, earthy blend of oak moss, patchouli, labdanum, and cedarwood making it a vintage-inspired yet thoroughly modern chypre.

Lemon Bergamot Scented Candles

Available in two sizes, our lemon bergamot scented candles are crafted with care and designed to elevate your everyday rituals or special occasions. The mini version makes for an unforgettable  wedding favour gift , allowing guests to take home a piece of your day—and the essence of Villa Grabau. Whether placed on a dinner table or beside a soaking tub, La Limonaia transforms any space into a serene Italian garden.

Olfactory Profile

Top notes: lemon zest, bergamot, Sicilian myrtle

Heart Notes: Florentine Iris, neroli, jasmine

Base notes: oak moss, patchouli, labdanum, cedar wood

How to reuse your candle jar

Ideas for re-purposing your empty candle jar

How to Reuse Your Candle Jar

At Luci di Lucca, we aim to be as sustainable as possible. That’s why we offer candle refills and encourage you to reuse your jar once the candle has finished. Instead of discarding it, give it a second life with a few simple ideas.

Step One: Clean the Empty Jar

Once only a small layer of wax remains at the bottom, it’s time to say goodbye to your candle—and hello to its next purpose. To clean the container, pour in hot soapy water and let it sit for a few minutes. Thanks to our vegetable wax blend of rapeseed and coconut, the residue dissolves easily. As for the wick tab, you can lift it out gently using your fingernail or the edge of a teaspoon.

Step Two: Repurpose with Intention

Once clean, your candle jar becomes a beautiful and functional item you can reuse in many ways:

  • Refill it: If you’re local, try our refill service. Bring your clean jar back and refill it with your favourite Luci di Lucca fragrance.

  • Declutter your desk: Use the jar to store pens, pencils, scissors, or paperclips. It’s a chic way to keep your workspace organized.

  • Beautify your bathroom: Store makeup brushes, lip glosses, cotton pads, or q-tips inside for an elegant and practical touch.

  • Create a cozy glow: Drop in a tealight to turn your empty candle container into a charming home accent that adds ambient light.

Small choices make a difference. By reusing your candle jar, you reduce waste while adding beauty and purpose to your daily rituals.