Annie Cantara, AB’17 (comparative human development), makes soy candles that smell like Chicago neighborhoods. Here are the top five sellers at her company, Vicinity Candles, and what inspired each one.

1. Hyde Park (Cantara’s neighborhood, 2013–18)

“The nostalgic scent of Hyde Park’s many bookstores and libraries, with notes of leather, patchouli, and musk.”

2. Lakeview (where she lived 2018–20)

“The cool summer breeze swirling off of Lake Michigan, with notes of rain water, jasmine, and citrus.”

3. Lincoln Park (her current neighborhood)

“The fresh scent of spring’s arrival in Lincoln Park, with notes of grass, bamboo, and bergamot.”

4. West Loop

“The delicious scent wafting from the Blommer Chocolate factory with notes of chocolate, vanilla, and walnut.”

5. Pilsen

“A walk through Pilsen with a cup of Mexican hot chocolate, with notes of cinnamon, vanilla, and cream.”