How we choose scents for the new season
The power of scent is intriguing. It’s our most sensitive sense and is strongly linked to our memory and feelings. We love discovering new and exciting scent combinations. It’s not always easy knowing where to start. We all have smells that we prefer. This is how we choose scents for the new season.
What is the memory to evoke with this scent?
We are fascinated by how scent captures memories. Scent stimulates the part of the brain which is connected to our memory. Memories are intertwined with emotions, so when we experience a scent which is stored in our memory, our brain tends to correlate it with certain recollections and the emotions involved with them emerge.
We sometimes consider a childhood memory and how it makes us feel. A favourite memory for me is gardening and the smell of scented flowers. A floral scent reminds me of afternoons gardening with family many years ago. We are inspired by smells which evoke vivid memories.
Is the scent inspired by nature?
Nature is a great inspiration, and we want to create beautiful and evocative candles using the bounty of the natural world. Being based in Suffolk we turn to Suffolk’s heathland, woodland and heritage coastline for motivation and creativity.
We want our scents to create a home that helps you escape the wider world, a place for peace and tranquillity, your own haven of comfort. We think bringing nature into our homes is a great way to do this.
Does the scent complement our existing scents?
We all like different smells so we want to ensure there is something for everyone. There are four different types of scent groups – floral, fresh, woody and oriental. We are all drawn to different types and we have our favourites. We like to have a balance of scents across these groups.
Does the scent smell strong enough and is it consistent?
We test a lot of different fragrances in our candles until we are happy there is enough scent throw and it’s consistent with the life of the candle. Our candles are made from 100% soy wax so are slow burning – read our earlier blog on why we use soy wax. We test rigorously to ensure the scent performs across all elements including the soy wax, the wicks, the container and overall safety.
The anticipation of Spring certainly made our job easier for how we choose scents for the new season. There is something hopeful about Spring. During the cold and gloomy winter, the anticipation of Spring in the garden makes our soul smile! It’s filled with wonderful fragrances, each one with the ability to transport us to lighter days and a garden filled with promise.
We will be launching two new Spring scents later in January. It’s not too late to tell us what you’d like to see in the future. Do let us know via Instagram, Facebook or email us at hello@botanicalforrest.co.uk.
