These fab incense papers from Santa Maria Novella are exactly as they were in the 16th century. I feel like I am lighting a piece of history when I burn one of these, which I love–feeling transported in time. Simply accordion the small piece of paper, light one end, and the frankincense and myrrh scent will fill the air. The Old World scent is really like no other. The papers even release a bit of the scent when unlit. We keep a box on our dresser, and we get a whiff of the scent each time we walk by. I like to include a few sheets when I write a note to a friend, and I also like using the sheets as bookmarks. They also works wonders in the linen closet, tucked in between towels and bedding. The distinctive red box makes it a perfect little host/hostess gift.

A customer asked me the other day, “What is your new favorite hostess gift?” Without hesitation, I walked her over to the oversized Juliska compote we have using to display the Santa Maria Novella pot-pourri at Watson Kennedy. A bag of this magical mix makes for a great gift that will make any host or hostess quite happy. The pot-pourri is made from a secret formula using a blend of herbs & flowers, all grown without pesticides in the Florentine hills exclusively for Santa Maria Novella. Each batch is collected by hand, soaked in essence in centuries-old earthenware jars which are sealed with wax, then aged for several months, then carefully packaged as it has been for centuries. It has become my go-to gift that I love giving, because I know how much it will be enjoyed.

I am thrilled to announce that our first shipment of the extraordinary Santa Maria Novella has arrived!

The centuries old Italian Santa Maria Novella is one of the oldest pharmacies in the world–they create some of the most unique and sought after scented goods in the market. I have long been a fan, and am so excited to now offer it to all of you at Watson Kennedy.

The potpourri has gained a cult status, and is amazing. This is not your grandmother’s potpourri. Each batch of herbs & flowers is collected by hand and fermented in centuries-old terra cotta jars for several months before it is packaged.

The eau de colognes are sublime. Each day I walk by the new display, the scents wafting thru the air, I am transported to a slower time and my heart slows a beat.