One should use the time before Maariv to recite Tehillim. Candles must not be waxed into place, nor may the wicks be twisted to facilitate their lighting. When necessary, one may remove the wax from the previous night with a knife. It is best that one removes it in a way that it falls directly into the garbage.
On the second night, the candles should be kindled with a pre-existing flame, and not before Tzeit Hakochavim (7:10pm). Most have the custom to say the Brachah, L’Hadlik Ner Shel Yom Tov, some, including Chabad say L’Hadlik Ner Shel Yom Hazikaron, all follow the Brachah with Shehecheyanu. Since there is an argument whether Shehecheyanu is recited on the second night of Rosh Hashana, the person lighting candles ideally wears a new garment and has in mind both the Chag and the new garment when reciting Shehecheyanu. Alternatively, the new fruit that will be eaten after Kiddush should be placed on the table, and one should have it in mind when reciting Shehecheyanu. In the absence of this, one still recites Shehecheyanu.
Some do not smoke on Rosh Hashana, even those who smoke regularly on other Chagim. Some do not smoke publicly. [Of course, this is discouraged in general.] Before making Kiddush, new fruit should be placed on the table. When reciting Shehecheyanu, one should look at the new fruit, and have in mind both the Chag and the new fruit. If one doesn’t have new fruit, he still recites Shehecheyanu. One should minimize the time between Kiddush and Challah. Before washing, a Brachah Acharona is said on the fruit, but not on the wine.
