The Scent of Romance

Fragrance has the power to transport us to different times and places, and can bring out powerful memories and the emotions that go with them. So fragrance can be essential in creating the mood for a romantic experience.

Smell has a powerful affect on human emotions and our response to those emotions. Think about how the aroma of baking bread or cookies makes you feel, what memories those aromas bring to mind. Our sense of smell is considered the most powerful of our senses in stimulating memories (good or not so good), and knowing how to use fragrances effectively can help create a powerful ambiance in any room you choose.

Certain scents, like jasmine, rose, and sandalwood have a more potent aphrodisiac (sexy) effect than others, and though their influence may be subtle, they tend to inspire romance and intimacy.

Fragrances that encourage romance and desire are often (but not always) light and airy, with a touch of passion and musky rose which adds depth, or warm and inviting balsamic aspects. The vaguest hint of romantic aromas can generate an irresistible response in both heart and body.

The right fragrance can evoke feelings of warmth, comfort, and intimacy, creating the perfect atmosphere for a romantic night in with your loved one.

What comes to mind when you think of words like “comfort” or “love?” These words might conjure imagery – a memory from your childhood when you felt safe and protected – or they might bring to mind a specific scent. Warm chocolate chip cookies fresh from the oven. A hint of your partner’s cologne lingering on their favorite sweater.

Depending on the memory it’s linked to, a certain smell can change the way you feel. It might induce a sense of calm that enables you to relax or even give you a burst of energy and motivation.

Fragrance can even play a role in creating an ambiance that inspires romance and encourages the strengthening of a connection between two people.

Some of the most romantic scents include rose, jasmine, musk, and vanilla. Floral fragrances are often considered romantic, while richer scents, sometimes described as masculine, have a more sensual, even sexy quality to them.

Try these simple steps to add romance to your home and your life –

• Place a reed diffuser in the entryway to set the tone from the moment your partner walks in the door – choose a subtle floral fragrance to set the scene.
• Offer your partner a back massage – add a few drops of vanilla or jasmine essential oil to your preferred massage oil.
• Prepare a special meal – your partner’s favorite – to create a warming atmosphere and to fill the home with the smell of delicious food.

The Scent of Romance

• Dim the lights and decorate the dinner table with fragrant candles – arrange them on top of a mirror to create a centerpiece that reflects the candlelight and sets the mood.
• Add romance-inspiring aromatics like rose petals, vanilla extract, and dried fruit peels to a pot of simmering water on the stove to fill the home with fragrance.

When it comes to setting the mood, a little bit of fragrance goes a long way. Don’t overwhelm with scent, just whisper and suggest the mood you want to create.

The Romance Chef will be offering a most gorgeous and even sexy essential oil diffuser, one that will get attention both for its unique beauty and the irresistible fragrances you use in it. Look for this elegant new product coming soon!

(thank you to lafco for their romantic tips!)