As a child growing up in Sudan, December was marked by the scent of the earth after rain and the golden hues of sunset lingering in the horizon. The rhythm of my days was quiet and unchanging. There were no decorations or festivities, but there was serenity—a sense of peace found in the stillness of the season.
When I moved to Ireland at age twelve, December transformed into something entirely different. The dark, frosty evenings glowed with strings of lights, the air was filled with the warmth of spices, and the streets buzzed with cheerful anticipation. It felt like stepping into a different world, where the cold was softened by shared joy and togetherness. Over time, Christmas became something I grew to love—not for its traditions, but for the kindness, connection, and warmth it brought to even the darkest days of winter.
To honour my journey, I created Winter Elegance—a blend of scents that captures the essence of Christmas. Orange - bright and zesty, recalls the lively warmth of festive gatherings and the citrusy freshness of holiday treats. Cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg, warm and spicy, evoke the comforting aromas of mulled drinks and spiced desserts shared around the fire. Rose, delicate and floral, reflects the love and tenderness that fills the season, while patchouli, earthy and grounding, mirrors the enduring connection to home, family, and the values we cherish during this time of reflection and joy. And so, every Christmas, I light this candle not because I have to, but because I want to. It is my way of giving thanks for the paths I’ve walked, the cultures I’ve embraced, and the warmth I’ve found in the hearts of others.
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