Peony & Blush Suede Scented Home Candle

I've loved these Jo Malone candles for years because of the inimitably delightful Peony & Blush Suede fragrance. I was gifted one several Christmases ago and have ordered a replacement every three or four months since -- yes, they smell great for that many weeks, burning for about an hour every-other-day -- because it turned out to be as practical, as justifiable, as any luxury candle expense can be, even by my working-class means. But the candle that arrived last week does not exude the usual heady bouquet that made this 7-ounce candle worth $65. It has the exact same fragrance, just very weak, as if the manufacturer has switched to lower quality or diluted oils. I have only very rarely posted critical feedback, but if this is the result of production compromise and not just a fluke, people need to know. Caveat emptor, friends.

After a few uses, the wick fell to the side like any cheap candle. -Except I paid $65 for this candle. I can't get mad at anyone but myself for spending such a ridiculous amount of money on a candle. Lesson learned. Although I like to scent, this candle is not worth the money considering the quality and the short-lasting aroma. Will not buy again.

Very rarely do I feel compelled to write an actual review but if you're questioning whether or not Jo Malone's products are severely overpriced, let me assure you, YES they are. This candle lasted me a maximum of maybe a week (being generous), and after the third or fourth lighting, the scent became very sour, and it does not burn clean at all. Her perfumes also do not last long and they are outrageously priced. I really do not know how she gets away with it. The scents and packaging are mediocre at best. If you are looking for a high quality candle with style and sophistication, try/stick with Diptyque. The quality is undeniable and the packaging is 100 times better. Their small VOTIVE sized candle burned longer than Jo Malone's $80 basic candle. AND Diptyque is slightly less expensive but you get WAY more for your money. Will not be buying her products again. I would have had more enjoyment watching my toddler flush the $70 I wasted on this candle down the toilet. Dramatic, but you get the point.

I discovered Jo Malone a few years back and must admit - I am obsessed. I purchased candles as holiday presents last year for numerous friends and after all the wonderful feedback and nonstop mention of their candles that, "lasted almost all year and smelled so, etc. etc." I purchased more candles again this year and the scent surround diffusers - (my personal favorite.) Personally, the Peony & Blush Suede & Blackberry & Bay are my regular go-to's for presents, but this year my new favorite is Mimosa & Cardamom. I love all of my Jo Malone products but you can't go wrong with the candles - everyone loves them!

Peony & Blush Suede always reminds me of my first trip to Paris. This candle fills my entire living room with floral fragrance that's not too sweet or overwhelming. I also like the design & feel they make bookshelves/coffee tables/bedside tables just a tiny bit more elegant. Jo Malone candles burn well (even and clean) & do last quite a while. Unlike diptyque, these candles come with a lid which I feel like "holds in" the fragrance between uses (maybe I'm crazy...I like diptyque but it blows my mind that you have to purchase a lid separately). Is $65 too much for a candle? Yes. But until I find another brand that can replicate a "light floral" scent without inducing headaches I'll keep saving my pennies for Jo Malone.