Building With Intention: A Look Back at a Transformative Year for Scent of Home

Earlier this year, we took a step back and asked ourselves a simple but important question:
What do we really want Scent of Home to become?

At the time, it felt like a pause. Looking back now, it’s clear it was a turning point.

This past year has been one of meaningful growth for Scent of Home. Not just in size, but in clarity. We took intentional steps forward across nearly every part of the business while also learning when to slow down, say no, and protect what matters most.

Choosing the Right Partners

One of the most impactful shifts we made this year was becoming far more intentional about who we partner with from a wholesale perspective.

Rather than trying to be everywhere, we focused on aligning with retailers who truly understand our brand and value thoughtful design, quality craftsmanship, and seasonal storytelling. This approach allowed us to build deeper relationships, simplify our processes, and create a more sustainable foundation for growth.

From the very beginning, Scent of Home has been shaped by the people who believed in us early on. Partners like Dwell Home Co and Robert and Wallace have been with us since the start and continue to be our biggest champions. Their support, encouragement, and mentorship have played a meaningful role in helping us grow with confidence and intention.

These relationships have never felt transactional. They’ve been rooted in shared values, honest conversations, and a genuine commitment to quality and community. We truly wouldn’t be where we are today without them, and we’re incredibly grateful to continue growing alongside partners who believe in what we’re building.

Refining the Brand and the Business

Behind the scenes, a lot changed this year.

We refined our internal processes, grew and organized our studio space, introduced new labels, and refreshed our overall brand to better reflect where Scent of Home is headed. We also transitioned fully to Shopify, giving us the tools and infrastructure needed to support a growing business while maintaining consistency, flexibility, and control.

Each of these updates was made with intention. Nothing was rushed. Everything was designed to support the long-term health of the brand.

Creating Experiences, Not Just Products

This year also marked the beginning of something new for us: candle pouring classes.

What started as an idea quickly became one of the most rewarding parts of our work. These classes gave us the opportunity to connect face-to-face with our community, share our craft, and create something meaningful alongside others.

They reminded us that Scent of Home is about more than candles. It’s about moments, memories, and connection.

Growth With Boundaries

While there were many opportunities to grow faster, we made a conscious decision not to say yes to everything.

Family has always been at the heart of Scent of Home. This year, that meant intentionally putting the brakes on certain areas of growth so Jess could spend more time with our girls. That choice shaped the pace of the business in important ways and gave us the clarity to build without burnout.

Now, with both girls in school, we find ourselves in a new season. The pace is shifting again, but the values remain the same.

Looking Ahead to 2026

As we move into 2026, we feel more focused than ever.

We’re continuing to refine, build, and improve with purpose. The foundation is strong. The vision is clear. And we’re entering this next year excited for what’s ahead, with plans for meaningful growth rooted in intention, balance, and community.

Thank you for being part of this journey with us. Whether you’ve been here from the beginning or are just discovering Scent of Home, we’re grateful to be building something lasting, together.