The Secret to a Home That Smells Expensive: No Candle Needed

There’s something about walking into a Williams-Sonoma that instantly transports me back to my childhood the warm, cozy scent of lemon, herbs, and vanilla lingering in the air, the nostalgia of running my tiny fingers across every shiny new appliance, and the comforting feeling of weekends spent with my parents slowly browsing the latest kitchen gadgets we definitely needed.

I grew up on those visits. And to this day, that scent feels like home.

Now, instead of dropping $95 on a luxury candle (no shade to the fancy ones or the people who buy them), I recreate that dreamy, elevated scent in my apartment toxin-free (duh) and totally seasonal. My secret? A stovetop simmer pot.

My Ultimate Williams-Sonoma Simmer Pot:

• A pot of water

• Slices of fresh lemon

• A few sprigs of fresh rosemary

• A splash of vanilla extract

Let it gently simmer on low heat and your entire home will be wrapped in the most luxurious, comforting scent no artificial fragrances required.

Seasonal Simmer Pot Ideas:

Winter: The season of cozy everything. I go full Christmas morning with:

• Apple slices (especially ones that are a bit too brown to eat)

• Orange rinds

• Cinnamon sticks

• Nutmeg

• Star anise

• A handful of cranberries

• Vanilla extract

  It smells like gingerbread cookies, warm cider, and a Hallmark movie all in one.

Spring: This is when I lean into the classic Williams-Sonoma vibe lemon, rosemary, and vanilla. It’s clean, nostalgic, and perfect for the season of fresh starts.

Summer:To keep things light and fresh, I throw in:

• Orange slices

• Fresh mint

• Basil leaves

  It’s vibrant, citrusy, and makes your space feel like a spa in Positano.

Fall:My favorite season, hands down. Think: Halloween Town meets your dream cottagecore kitchen.

• Apples

• Cinnamon

• Nutmeg

• Pumpkin spice blend

• Star anise

• A splash of vanillaIt

  smells magical, spicy, and like a warm hug.

Not only does this ritual make your space smell incredible, but it’s also a sustainable, low-waste way to use fruit and herbs that are slightly past their prime. It’s cozy, it’s luxe, and it’s a little bit nostalgic just the way I like it.