1. Romantic Ambiance
Candles such as a Kindred Essence Rose Petals pillar set the stage for an intimate and romantic atmosphere, and a touch of magic. They have the unique ability to transform any space into a sanctuary of warmth, tranquility, and passion. The soft, flickering glow of a candle instantly sets a romantic ambiance, creating an atmosphere that invites closeness and connection.
Whether scented or unscented, candles add a captivating charm to the occasion, making every moment together feel special and cherished. Combined with the timeless beauty of roses, the ambiance becomes an enchanting backdrop for heartfelt conversations and cherished moments between partners.
2. Symbolism of Love
Roses, especially red ones, are the quintessential symbol of love and passion. Their vibrant colors and delicate petals convey deep emotions, serving as a profound declaration of affection. The act of presenting a bouquet of roses signifies a timeless expression of love and admiration, expressing sentiments that words often struggle to articulate.
3. Lasting Impressions
Both candles and roses offer a lasting impact. While chocolates and other gifts may be fleeting, candles can be savored over multiple occasions, each time rekindling the emotions of Valentine’s Day. Similarly, a bouquet of roses, when cared for, can continue to bloom, serving as a reminder of enduring love and commitment long after Valentine's Day has passed.
In essence, the combination of candles and roses encapsulates the heart of romance, creating an enchanting environment and leaving a lasting impression that lingers far beyond the day itself. Their ability to evoke emotions, symbolize love, and sustain their charm make them an exceptional choice for celebrating and expressing your emotions.
At Kindred Essence, we have you covered on both fronts with our rose petals fragrance candles, soaps, body butters and gift sets. This Valentine’s Day, let candles and roses speak the language of your heart and ignite the passion in your relationship.
]]>
1. Stress Reduction and Relaxation
It's all about self-care. In today's fast-paced world, stress is an omnipresent companion for both men and women. Scented candles, with their soothing fragrances provide a delightful respite and offer an effective means of stress reduction. The flickering flame and aromatic scents, such as lavender, chamomile, or sandalwood, can create a calming atmosphere that helps men unwind after a hectic day.
Men who embrace scented candles know that self-care is essential, and they're not afraid to indulge in a bit of luxury, even if it comes in the form of a beautifully scented candle.
2. Ambiance and Aesthetics
Scented candles are not just about fragrance; they're also about ambiance. Men, like women, appreciate the power of ambiance be it decorative or atmospheric. Scented candles can transform any room into a warm, inviting space. The soft glow of candlelight combined with the scent of an exotic or masculine fragrance adds a touch of elegance and refinement to one's living space.
It creates an intimate and cozy atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a long day or setting the stage for a romantic evening. Plus, the act of lighting a candle can be a mindful ritual, helping men to clear their minds and focus on the present moment.
3. Therapeutic Benefits
Let's not forget the power of scent on mood. It’s our 3rd reason men love scented candles. It’s not just about making a room smell good; candles can also offer restorative benefits. A well-chosen scented candle can uplift the spirits, relieve stress, or induce a sense of calm. Today’s man understand that the right aroma can make all the difference, turning a regular space into a haven of tranquility.
Aromatherapy, which involves the use of scents to improve one's mental and emotional well-being, has gained in popularity. Candles scented with essential oils like eucalyptus, mint, and citrus can invigorate and refresh the mind, making them a valuable addition to a man's self-care routine.
4. Personalization
Another reason men are increasingly drawn to scented candles is the ability to personalize their environment. Kindred Essence offers a wide variety of scents, some of which cater to more masculine preferences. Woodsy, smoky, and earthy fragrances, reminiscent of the great outdoors or leather-bound books, are appealing to men who want to curate a space that reflects their tastes.
5. Memory and Nostalgia
Scent has a powerful connection to memory and emotion and men are not immune to the nostalgia-inducing power of certain fragrances. For instance, a candle with notes of freshly cut grass or the smoky aroma of a campfire might transport a man back to his fondest outdoor adventures.
Whether it's the woody embrace of cedarwood, the invigorating citrus burst of bergamot, or the calming waves of lavender and vetiver, these scents can whisk men away from the everyday hustle and bustle. It's like them taking a mini vacation without leaving their favorite comfortable armchair.
So, there you have it! Our top 5 reasons why men adore scented candles just as much as women. They create a fragrant escape, set the perfect ambiance, and positively influence mood. So, gentlemen, join your brothers in arm and don’t be afraid to embrace the magic of scented candles. “Explore life’s fragrances” by letting the aromas transport you to a world of relaxation and comfort. It's a scent-sational experience you don't want to miss!
Here at Kindred Essence you will find the perfect candle, organic soap bars and or gift sets for that special man in your life
]]>
In Barbados, coconuts are a cornerstone of our national culinary heritage. Our mother and grandmother, like countless others, expertly wove coconut into rice dishes, bread, pastries, and refreshing drinks. They also extracted precious coconut milk, a natural elixir that, when transformed into a sumptuous oil, became a nourishing treatment for our hair and skin.
Little did we envision as children that our love for this extraordinary fruit would one day inspire us to create and share our own line of products that harness the incredible benefits of coconut oil. Join us on this journey of indulgence and well-being, as we bring the essence of our island paradise to you.
In the islands, we’ve cherished coconuts for centuries as a culinary delight, but did you know that its versatile natural oil with its enchanting aroma can also work wonders for your skin? From moisturizing to protecting, its remarkable properties have captivated skincare enthusiasts and experts alike.
Hydration at Its Best:
One of the most celebrated attributes of coconut oil is its exceptional moisturizing prowess. Packed with fatty acids, it acts as a potent emollient, effortlessly locking in moisture and preventing water loss. When applied to the skin, coconut oil creates a protective barrier , making it an excellent choice for those with dry, flaky, or parched skin. Its natural hydrating ability contributes to a smoother, more supple complexion.
A Shield Against the Elements:
Coconut oil’s protective nature extends beyond hydration. The lauric acid found in coconut oil boasts antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can be particularly beneficial for those with sensitive skin. This natural shield helps guard against environmental aggressors, pollution, and even harmful bacteria that can trigger breakouts and skin irritation.
Kindred Essence’s organic body butters enhanced with virgin coconut oil are the perfect way to pamper and nourish your skin. They are the ultimate in skincare indulgence.
Age-Defying Elixir:
Coconut oil’s antioxidants, such as natural vitamin E, make it a compelling contender in the anti-aging skincare arena. The topical application of coconut oil with its rich antioxidants helps protect the skin and improve its appearance. By incorporating coconut oil into your skincare routine, you can potentially promote a youthful and radiant skin tone.
Gentle Cleansing Rituals:
Embracing the oil cleansing method has gained popularity in recent years, and coconut oil shines in this realm as well. The oil’s ability to dissolve makeup, dirt, and impurities while maintaining the skin’s natural lipid barrier makes it an effective and gentle cleanser.
That’s where Kindred Essence’s organic soap bars come in. With 11 amazing scents to choose from, and enriched with coconut, olive and other moisture rich organic oils, our bars create an incredible cleansing lather that softens and enhances the natural texture of your skin.
Seamless Integration:
Incorporating coconut oil into your skincare regimen is a breeze. It can be used as a standalone moisturizer, a makeup remover, or even as a base for homemade scrubs and masks. However, it’s crucial to perform a patch test before using coconut oil extensively, especially if you have sensitive skin or allergies.
A Word of Caution:
While the benefits of coconut oil are undeniable, it’s important to approach its usage thoughtfully. Not all skin types react the same way to coconut oil, and some individuals might experience clogged pores or breakouts. Individuals with oily or acne-prone skin might want to tread cautiously, as coconut oil’s richness could potentially exacerbate their condition. If you’re uncertain, consider consulting a dermatologist before making it a staple in your routine.
And if you are sensitive to fragrance, we also offer an unscented body butter that will fit your needs.
To conclude, coconut oil’s allure as a skincare superhero lies in its ability to deeply hydrate, protect, and potentially rejuvenate the skin. Its natural composition, coupled with its various beneficial components, makes it a versatile asset in your pursuit of radiant and healthy skin. Whether you’re looking to tackle dryness, enhance your cleansing ritual, or simply embrace a more natural approach to skincare, coconut oil could be the missing piece to your beauty puzzle.
Disclaimer:
This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. If you have specific skin concerns or conditions, consult a dermatologist or healthcare professional before incorporating coconut oil or any new product into your skincare routine.
References for this article include the Cleveland Clinic, Medical News Today, and the National Library of Medicine.
Organic Soap Bars for Men and Women
]]>
As the leaves turn brilliant shades of crimson and gold and a cool breeze fills the air, there's an unmistakable aroma that wafts through the streets and Starbucks’ doorways, signaling the arrival of autumn. It's the sweet, comforting scent of pumpkin spice, a beloved seasonal flavor that captures our hearts year after year. But what is it about pumpkin spice that ignites such fervent love and devotion?
According to researchers at Johns Hopkins Krieger School of Arts and Sciences, the fall scent is a favorite for the following reasons.
Nostalgia
Pumpkin spice evokes powerful memories of cozy gatherings, family traditions, and holidays spent with loved ones. It transports us back to a simpler time, surrounded by warmth and comfort, making us yearn for those cherished moments.
Comfort in a Cup
There's something undeniably comforting about sipping on a hot pumpkin spice latte on a crisp fall morning. The blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger envelops our taste buds in a warm embrace, soothing our souls with each sip.
Versatility
Pumpkin spice isn't limited to beverages. It infuses its delightful flavors into an array of treats, from pies and muffins to cookies and ice cream. Its versatility allows us to enjoy its deliciousness in countless ways, ensuring we never tire of it, like in evocative seasonal soy candles.
Seasonal Connection
Pumpkin spice is intrinsically tied to the changing seasons. Its arrival signifies the start of autumn and all the beauty it brings, from colorful foliage to pumpkin carving. This connection to nature resonates with our desire to be in harmony with the world around us.
Sense of Community
The shared enthusiasm for pumpkin spice creates a sense of community. It's a conversation starter, a topic that brings people together and fosters connections. Sharing a pumpkin spice treat with a friend can be an act of bonding and camaraderie.
Exploration and Creativity
The enduring love for pumpkin spice inspires culinary exploration. Chefs and home bakers alike experiment with new recipes, pushing the boundaries of what can be created with this beloved flavor. But it’s not just food as pumpkin spice is a big part of fall décor as well with potpourri and its burnt orange color especially popular in seasonal pillar candles.
To sum up, our love for pumpkin spice isn't merely about the taste; it's a celebration of tradition, comfort, and the changing seasons. It's a reminder of the beauty of autumn and the joy of sharing moments with loved ones. So, as we sip our pumpkin spice lattes, savor our pumpkin spice treats, and light our scented candles, let's embrace the seasonal love affair that warms our hearts each fall.
Enjoy other fall candle favorites.
]]>We’ve been sitting on a secret for a couple of months and today, we’re super excited to reveal the news. Kindred Essence was selected as an Etsy Featured Seller and the article is now live on the Etsy site.
This is such an exciting and amazing opportunity for us and Jennifer and I want to again thank everyone at Etsy who selected us for this feature.
]]>This is such an exciting and amazing opportunity for us and Jennifer and I want to again thank everyone at Etsy who selected us for this feature.
In addition to the interview, we had the opportunity to go into the city and have our photos taken by the amazing Taylor Rainbolt. She and the talented makeup artist and hair stylist made us look pretty good if I do say so myself.
Speaking of amazing photographers, we owe an eternal debt of gratitude to the fabulous Earle Holder from 31btmedia for the wonderful photos he’s taken of us and more importantly our products this year. His photos greatly contributed to bringing our products to the attention of Etsy and we couldn’t be more appreciative of his work. If you are looking for some amazing product photography or lifestyle shots in the NJ/NYC area, Earle is your guy.
We also want to thank our Lord and savior for granting us this opportunity and our family for their continued support.
Finally, an interesting aspect to all of this. As you all know, we are originally from Barbados and as would be expected, are big fans of Rihanna. Well, we had our photos taken at the Pier 59 photo studios in NYC. Two days later we found out that the day after we were at the studio, Rihanna was at the same location. We missed her by just 24 hours. 12 However, God is good and someday, we’ll run into our girl. Maybe it will be on a beach in Bim.
Again, thanks to everyone who have supported us on this journey…from Etsy to our friends and family and of course our customers. We couldn’t have done it without you. Now the hard work begins.
]]>JenSan Home and Body is now Kindred Essence and you may be asking yourself why the name change? Well, we made the decision to change our name for several reasons.
We love the name JenSan Home and Body. After all, it was named after us. However, with the changing marketplace and the diversification of our product line, we recognized that we needed a name that more closely captured…well, the “essence” of our company.
]]>We love the name JenSan Home and Body. After all, it was named after us. However, with the changing marketplace and the diversification of our product line, we recognized that we needed a name that more closely captured…well, the “essence” of our company.
It turned out that there is a company with a very similar name that kept being confused with JenSan. We thought we had the confusion sorted a couple of years ago but it kept coming up again.
We also wanted to branch out and offer candles and soaps with fragrances specifically formulated for men. In taking a deep look at our old logo, we realized that it was not quite the look for a masculine brand. For all these reasons, it seemed to make sense to go for a name change.
So, why did we decide on the name Kindred Essence?
We knew that the name needed to be clear, concise, easy to remember and work as a brand. It also had to be a name that said something about us as well as our products. Like JenSan, which was an abbreviated combination of Jennifer and Sandra, it also had to convey a sense of family.
In West Indian and Black communities’ writ large, we tend to introduce people to others that they may not know personally as kin. It does not always have to be a relationship by blood. It can be one of simple friendship. It becomes, “this is Mavis, she’s kin to Shirley.” While we don’t know Mavis, we know Shirley and so our door is open to Mavis.
Kindred means family and essence means soul. Essence also means fragrance or scent and combining the two perfectly captures the spirit of not just our products but our company. For us, Kindred Essence is not just about a family of products. It represents immediate family, friendships, and relationships with our neighbors and our community.
Coming up with a new name and rebranding our products was two years in the making. We considered and discarded many different options before as a family, deciding on Kindred Essence.
Once we decided on a new name, we had to design a new logo. Again, this involved the creation of several different logo designs. After we decided on our KE branding, we then had to design labeling for all our different product offerings. With slight variations, we carried the KE design across all our product lines.
With the completion of the new packaging, we had to turn to the job of taking new photos of our entire product library. Thankfully, for this part of the process family friend and amazing photographer, Earle Holder of 31BT Media brought his talent to the table and produced our beautiful new product photos. Thank you, Earle!
To celebrate the launch of this next chapter, we knew that we wanted to introduce some new products. Jennifer got to work and created some amazing new candle and soap scents, which we hope you enjoy as much as she did their creation.
We are thrilled about the future path of Kindred Essence and where this journey will take us and are just as excited to invite you along with us.
Jennifer and Sandra
]]>For centuries women throughout Sub-Saharan Africa have applied it to their skin as a remedy against the hot sun and as a food ingredient. In the cosmetics industry, it is used to fight against wrinkles, dry skin, stretch marks, and as a hair conditioner.
Shea butter has natural Vitamin A and E which helps to regenerate the skin and protect it from sun damage. It melts on contact and is easily absorbed into the skin without leaving a greasy residue. It is also used by many candy and chocolate companies. According to the New York Times, “Shea is used to make Kit Kat bars, Almond Joys, Milky Ways and other confections”.
Shea butter comes from the fat in the nut of the Karite tree which is found in East and West Africa. In its raw, unrefined state its color can vary from cream to yellow, with a nutty odor. Refined shea is odorless and is a white, creamy color. Most shea butter is harvested and produced by country women who use traditional methods to extract the fat from the shea nuts.
With the increased demand for shea butter by the large cosmetics companies in the West there has been a corresponding increase in production. However, most of the millions of women responsible for the harvesting and production of the shea butter live below the poverty level.
Many organizations, including the United Nations are working to make sure that these women profit from the increased demand for shea butter by setting up Fair Trade cooperatives. The women doing this back-breaking work deserve to have the large, western corporations pay them a fair price for their product. The money earned by these women help them to support their families. At Kindred Essence, the shea butter used in our products is purchased from a Fair-Trade organization and the money paid to the women of the cooperative helps to empower, and even change their life.
]]>
Lavender essential oil has been used forever for its beautiful scent as well as for its healing properties. Like with most herbaceous plants, old wives’ tales have circulated for centuries, and though there often is a grain of truth in these tales, science is finally catching up. Surprisingly, lavender actually can be beneficial to your health in its essential oil form. Apart from being aromatically therapeutic, lavender oil has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. Here are seven ways to benefit from using lavender essential oil.
Aromatherapy is built on the back of scent being strongly tied to psyche, and a healthful psyche being paramount to good health. Studies have actually shown that lavender essential oil can help you not only relax, but fight strong psychological issues like depression and anxiety.
Dandruff is often a symptom of a bigger problem – fungal infection. It might sound gross, but it’s actually quite common, no matter one’s hygiene routine. However, adding lavender essential oil to your hair routine can actually help to curb fungal growth and as a result, fight dry, itchy, flaky scalp while leaving your hair with a delicate lavender scent. It can also be used to treat athlete’s foot.
It’s not unusual to use lavender as a completely natural cure for an upset tummy. Most of us are used to brewing some ginger or chamomile to fight the grumblies. However, you can also add lavender to that list. Its aromatherapeutic properties soothe you not only in spirit but in body as well, and can actually help to calm your stomach and soothe what ails you.
Of course, as you already know, lavender is not only anti-fungal but anti-inflammatory. It is also soothing to the skin, making lavender essential oil an excellent alternative for people with sensitive skin. It’s so great, in fact, that it actually helps wounds to heal faster and better.
Maybe one of the most amazing benefits of lavender oil, especially for people who have alopecia, is its ability to encourage hair regrowth. Though it’s not a cure by any means, since it’s also beneficial for sensitive skin in general, it’s an excellent supplemental treatment for those struggling with alopecia and eczema.
Women are always looking for ways to allay the symptoms of PMS, in particular severe PMS that can be linked to conditions like endometriosis. Lavender essential oil though, has been shown to help with both the emotional and physical effects—from helping one’s mood to alleviating bloating and cramps. And hey, a lavender scented pampering session is a treat at the best of times.
Finally, one of the best possible uses for lavender essential oil is in the treatment of migraines. Any sufferer knows that any reprieve is worth it, and lavender essential oil can also help with headaches, nausea, and anxiety – all of which tend to exacerbate migraines.
Kindred Essence offers a range of lavender scented products. Try out our lavender organic soaps for smooth, soothed, radiant skin, and finish off with our organic body butter to seal in all that wonderful moisture! Or light up one of our wonderful soy candles to set the mood for a relaxing and calming day. Whichever way you choose to take advantage of the health benefits of lavender essential oil, we have you covered.
]]>Coming up with the name for a new product is never easy. Any name must be descriptive— saying something about the product while also fitting into our brand strategy. It also must be a name that will appeal to our target audience. In our case, it also must be one that both Jennifer and I can agree on. And so today, we’re starting a regular feature called “Behind the Name,” where we briefly discuss how and why we came up with the names for our products. First up is our Brigantine soy candle and soap for men.
Candles are often named after the fragrance notes used in the product. Some of our candles are aptly named in this manner. However, when deciding on the names for the new soy candles for men from our Mawuli Men’s Collection, we knew that in addition to capturing and symbolizing the fragrances, we also wanted names that conveyed strength, an adventurous spirit, and a love of new experiences.
For some of the candles, we also knew that there would be an accompanying soap bar and so we needed names that worked for both products. We also preferred names that had not been used before.
The candles in this new line run the gamut from light and herbal to earthy and mysterious scents. After considering many different names for the new candle, which is scented with fragrances sourced from different parts of the world, we decided on Brigantine.
Named for the two-masted sailing vessel once popular with pirates who sailed the seven seas, we think Brigantine perfectly captures the mood of both our candle and soap…strong and enticing with a multitude of evocative fragrances from distant lands—a name worthy of a man with a spirit for adventure.
Exotic and earthy saffron fused with white tea; embers of tobacco leaf mingling with the mysterious sensuality of orchids all folded into lush and creamy almond milk, and the sweet warm notes of vanilla and tonka beans.
Brigantine sounds just about right, don’t you think?
]]>
Always burn your candle on a stable heat resistant surface. Keep away from drafts and flammable materials. Do not burn candle when wax is less than 1/2” from bottom.
Place pillar candles on an appropriate candle holder before lighting. Never place it directly on furniture surface. If the wax of a burning pillar candle reaches the edge, blow out flame, fold edges inward and allow wax to harden before lighting again.
Trimming away the used portion of the wick prior to each use will extend the life of your candle. Relighting the burnt part of the wick will result in a larger flame, which will melt the wax at a faster rate. Trim the wick on pillar candles approximately 1/4 to 3/8; and 3/8 to 1/2 inch on container candles each time they are lit. If you think that your candle flame is too high, blow candle out and trim wick to a lower height.
Do not touch or move candle while burning or if it is hot. Never leave a burning candle unattended and always keep out of the reach of children and pets. We recommend burning your candle for no more than 3 hours at a time.
Following these recommendations will help prevent dripping and protect your furniture as well as prolong the life of your candle.
UNDERSTANDING BURN TIMES
The burn time of candles varies depending on size, the wick (some wicks burn faster than others) and more importantly, the air that filters through a room. Even with all the windows and doors of your home closed, there is always a flow of air throughout the home. Since the air current varies from room to room, the burn time of your candle can vary as well. The stronger the air current, the shorter the life span of your candle. This means that you can have two candles of the same size that have different life spans.
For instance, you can burn pillar candle (A) in your bedroom and it could last for about 50 hours in burn time. You can then burn the exact same candle (B) in the living room and have it last for only about 40 hours. The difference is because there is more foot traffic in and out of the living room and it’s closer to the front door that opens on a regular basis. This results in a stronger air current flowing into the living room. All this you should keep in mind when considering the burn time of your candle.
SOY WAX CANDLES
Soy wax has a lower melting point than paraffin and other waxes and as a result will burn slower which results in a longer life for your candle. Depending on the size of your candle, the use of soy wax can add 15 hours or more onto the life of your candle.
At Kindred Essence, we thoroughly test the burn time of our candles under various conditions to come up with realistic life spans. We are not out to fool anyone into buying our candles by promoting outlandish burn times. We are very confident in our product and feel that once a customer tries our candles, they will want to repeat the experience.
]]>