My Urban Kitchen

Out of all the local, homemade fragrant items on the street in downtown Boston, My Urban Kitchen was my favorite! It had the best deals and the best scents.
I got 6 mini candles and a soap sample, and my friend got two lavender scented pillows. The eye masks particularly caught my attention, for $ 10 a piece. I may have to order one online!
Can’t wait to burn them candles. They all smelled so good, I practically got every scent!
The owners were also nice, and explained everything thoroughly. So nice to buy artisanal goods when visiting a new city!

I haven’t bought any of her soaps, but her Whipped Shea Butter is fantastic for the winter. I have extremely dry skin and appreciate how the whipped butter feels light, but applies a strong protective layer. I have the one with lavender essential oil, and it’s so heavenly when the scent is released on application. I carry it in my purse at all times.
I recommend this product for people with seriously dry skin!

I love Helene Matteson’s products and my absolute favorites are her soy candles. I am sometimes bit «smell-​sensitive» and these candles have just enough scent without being overpowering. They also leave no traces of soot when you burn them (and if you have fiberglass fixtures in your bathroom, you know what I’m talking about). Though the candles are small, they last a surprisingly long time.
The soaps are also great and have the same types of scents as the candles. They also last a really long time.
Helene is always at a craft fair or farmers’ market, so you can check out her merchandise in person if you can’t get to the studio in Allston.
Addendum: As of May 1, 2010, Helene is one of the artisans whose products are for sale at Local, a new boutique in Fanueil Hall featuring only merchandise by local crafters. Check it out the next time you’re there!