Scent Notes.
Short reads from behind the counter. Owner’s picks, seasonal guides, brand spotlights, and occasional essays about why a room smells the way it does.
Artisan Bar Soap: Why It's Worth the Switch
Artisan bar soap lasts longer, uses better ingredients, and skips the plastic. Here's why it's making a comeback and what to look for when you buy.
Broken Top x Austy Lou: The Mom-Inspired Candle Collection
Bergamot: The Citrus Note in Almost Every Great Candle
Best Candles for Bathrooms: Scents for Small, Humid Spaces
Bedroom Ambiance: Make Your Room Feel Like a Retreat
Broken Top Candle Co.: PNW Scents in Your Living Room
Acqua di Parma: Italian Elegance You Can Wear
A guide to Acqua di Parma fragrances - from the iconic Colonia to Blu Mediterraneo. Italian heritage, bright citrus, and effortless sophistication.
Broken Top Apricot Bloom: The Full Scent Line
Best Gifts Under $30 That Look Way More Expensive
Broken Top Aperol Spritz Candle: Summer in a Jar
Are Soy Candles Non-Toxic? A Straight Answer
The Ultimate Santa Cruz Date Night Guide
The Best Candles for a Dinner Party (That Won't Compete with Your Food)
The right dinner party candle sets the mood without competing with your food. Here's how to pick candle scents that enhance the evening, not overpower it.
Bath Night Done Right: Home Fragrance for Relaxation
Teacher Appreciation Gifts They'll Actually Use
The Best Date Ideas in Santa Cruz (That Aren't Dinner and a Movie)
Mother's Day Home Fragrance Gifts She'll Actually Use
Best Candle Scents for Spring and Summer
Spring Cleaning Your Home's Scent: A Fresh Start Guide
Time to swap out the heavy winter scents for something lighter. Here's how to refresh your home fragrance for spring with candles, incense, and room sprays.
The Best Candle Shops in Santa Cruz: A Local Guide
Where to Buy Japanese Incense in Santa Cruz
Acqua di Parma Colonia Review: Italian Sunshine in a Bottle
Mother's Day Gift Ideas in Santa Cruz
A Beginner's Guide to Japanese Incense
Best Gift Shops in Santa Cruz for Unique Finds
Santa Cruz has more independent gift shops than any beach town should. Here are the ones locals actually use - for birthdays, holidays, and 'just because.'
Shop Local Santa Cruz: Our Favorite Nearby Businesses