Nicola is currently loving: 

@kajalperfumes Kolada

“When we radiate rays of gratitude

We bathe in a boundless ocean of abundance.

Inspired by the iconic Pina Colada, Kajal Kolada pays homage to happiness, tranquility, and exoticism. The Pina Colada conjures visions of a lush, tropical paradise, where the emerald palm leaves of coconut groves gently sway as a blissfully balmy breeze caresses them, offering momentary respite from the sultry heat. Pristine ivory sands meet shimmering aquamarine waters, seamlessly blending into pastel-colored cotton candy skies as infinite as the hopes and dreams within us all.

While we may long for the euphoria of exploring distant horizons, let us not overlook the myriad of blessings that surround us in our everyday existence. When we choose to focus on being truly present in the moment, we become aware of the vast treasures that enrich our lives, allowing us to cherish what may seem to be the smallest of things. Practicing gratitude is among the most precious gifts we can bestow upon ourselves, as it leads us to the tranquil beauty of inner peace and contentment, a realm of happiness beyond compare.

Kolada opens with a delightfully vibrant burst of Italian Bergamot combined with fruity notes, including Pineapple, which symbolizes prosperity and friendship. 

The heart notes reveal the delicate sweetness of violet, exquisitely blended with the gentle freshness of Lily of the Valley, a flower believed by many to symbolize luck, happiness, and love. 

As Kolada unfurls, we are greeted with an exhilarating fusion of musky warmth from Amber and Siamese Benzoin, combined with the soft, exotic creaminess of coconut milk. Coconuts represent the unity of body, mind, and spirit, which must be in harmony for spiritual growth.”

AND Nicola can’t stop wearing:

@clivechristianperfume E Cashmere Musk

“Immerse yourself in the embrace of a fragrance that delicately envelops the senses, akin to the tender caress of cashmere on bare skin. Enter a realm where musky notes intricately weave a warm, indelible hug, creating an experience that is both calming and comforting. E Cashmere Musk is not just a fragrance it’s a journey . Envision a tranquil haven, where each note weaves a narrative of delicate touches and enduring elegance. The symphony of Baies Rose, Sichuan Pepper, and Fresh Ginger in the top notes sets the stage for an odyssey of scent—an unforgettable olfactory adventure that transcends the boundaries of time. As you delve deeper, the heart of the fragrance reveals a Fleuriste Fusion, Egyptian Jasmin, and Cashmeran. Here, the scent becomes an intricate dance, much like the delicate petals of blooming flowers, creating an atmosphere of ethereal beauty. The base notes, including Guaiacwood, Ambroxan, and Musks, form a tapestry of lasting impressions. It lingers on the skin, leaving an undeniable presence that is both subtle and captivating—a fragrance that becomes a part of you.”

Suzy also adoring @amouageofficial Lustre

“Radiating soft light like the gleam of a pearl, by Paul Guerlain & Julien Rasquinet, it’s made with 30% pure perfume and aged for six months with sandalwood chips in oak barrels, to add even more nuanced notes. 

But basically, Lustre is an incredibly soft, smooth fragrance that manages to be simultaneously feathery and creamy. It’s the iridescent gleam of a pearl’s shell, the flash of silver in a bird’s wing. Aromatic cardamom, powdery, nurturing orris, creamy sandalwood and dark vanilla slightly sweetened by toasty tonka, with a lightly smoky breeze that billows as it warms.”

This week we’re mainly focusing on the ‘Brighton Sniffari Part Two’ - Suzy’s visit to independent perfume shop Wild Iris in Brighton: 

@wild_iris_perfumerie (run by Kate) 

Suzy LOVED (so many! But including…)

@santaeulalia1843 175

“The historical fashion boutique-atelier Santa Eulalia was born in the heart of Barcelona in 1843 and is still recognised today as one of the twenty most exclusive stores in the world. The sophisticated touch of the store's rooms and the elegance of the clothes and accessories it sells is transported into the fragrance world. Named after the patron saint of Barcelona, today Santa Eulalia represents an encounter between past and present, joined in a real temple of luxury.”

“By Christian Provenzano. Perfume created to celebrate the 175 years of history of Santa Eulalia. Past and future mix to give life to the aroma of this perfume. With notes of spices, citrus and wood, the fragrance expresses the ties that unite Santa Eulalia with Barcelona. Perfume for women and men. Top Notes: Bergamot, Cardamom, Coriander Seeds, Elemi Flower, Orange, Saffron Heart Notes: Jasmine, Rose, Neroli, Clove Base Notes; Amber, Oud, Cedar wood, Labdanum, Musk, Vanilla, Guaiac wood, Patchouli and Sandalwood.”

@astrophilstellaperfume In Extremis

“Birch, Galbanum, Chamomile, Angelica and Mastic or Lentisque; middle notes are Incense, Musk, Osmanthus and Magnolia; base notes are Leather, Oud, Guaiac Wood, Ambergris, Vetiver, Patchouli and Oakmoss. 

In the midst of darkness that dances with light, a fragrancecaptures the essence of a genius who challenged his Time,turning contrasts and passions into eternal masterpieces.

IN EXTREMIS is dedicated to Caravaggio, observer of humanity, imperfect Master. A tribute to his art, a journey that delves into the depths ofexpression. For those who live passionately, embracingcontrast as a source of inspiration.

Our love for Caravaggio pays homage to his revolutionaryart, his restless spirit, and his ability to transform thecanvas into a mirror of the soul. A genius that transcendstime, an artist who has left an indelible mark on the heartsof those, like us, who find continual inspiration in his work.

This perfume is an invitation to travel beyond the bounda–ries of the known, to explore the depths of the humanspirit, to live every moment with fierce passion..”

@ortir_apothecari Dôl

“Homage to a traditional fougere opens with restorative bergamot and grapefruit before settling into the soft and velvety notes of lavender and hay. This niche perfume its redolent of meandering through Welsh meadows, grounding vetiver echoes the fields of ORTIR.

FRAGRANCE NOTES

Top:

Italian Lemon

Minty geranium rose

Heart:

Haystacks

Lavender fields

Base:

Rich, dry, earthy vetiver”

@headspaceparfum Styrax

“By @miroslav.petkov_perfumer Towards the Horizon – A moment of privilege, mind and body completely connected, man and horse suddenly become one. Mutual taming. The familiar warmth of a peach-skinned chestnut awakens the desire for untamed riding. Take the reins, conquer time, conquer yourself, grasping the mane, labdanum and amber, conjuring the image of the polished saddle, warmed against the body of a steed, united with the leather and apricot notes of styrax and osmanthus, in a tribute to skin in all kingdoms: plant, animal, and human, warm and radiant.

Notes: a bestial intense amber, cypriol heart, labdanum, osmanthus, Indonesian patchouli, vetiver, saffron, amber. 94,09% of the ingredients are of natural origin.

Headspace: A galloping stallion”

We’re also updating you, as promised…

#ad @the_rac_on_teur results of our poll on Instagram about which of the Raconteur fragrances we’ve been discussing (in their ‘Australiscious’ Discovery Set II) were listener favourites! 

This week we’re focusing on Suzy’s recent Sniffari in Brighton, this time focusing on her visit to @soliflore_store, owned and run by Sarah. We will also be revealing our favourite of the new @the_rac_on_teur fragrances we’ve been exploring the last few weeks, and you can vote for your fave in the poll on our Instagram page, @onthescentpodcast. 

In this episode we also mention the wonderful kit Nicola’s put together for those who share her anxiety about flying. Find out more about Zen in the Sky kits @outspokenbeautynicola. 

But now, let’s flit to the fragrant trip to Brighton, and find out which scents Suzy fell for…

Soliflore is one of those beautifully curated, cosy shops where walking through the door feels like coming home. Sarah’s eye for design and detail is exquisite, with a large central table featuring an ever-evolving showcase of scents, and instead of blotters, there are silken handkerchiefs (stored in vintage tins) sprayed with each fragrance. 

Featuring a curated selection honed to what Sarah knows her customers are looking for, including beloved brands and some exclusives & indie houses Suzy had never heard of before, it’s a place you could happily while away several hours sniffing your way around. And there are gorgeous cards, soaps, chocolates and great gift-y items to tempt every taste! 

In the short amount of time Suzy had, here are three fragrances she found at Soliflore and immediately fell for…

@reserve_en_afrique Aube Lumineuse

“The sun rises, flooding the great expanses of the sweeping plains, gracing the wilderness with its wash of pure light. The dawn’s intense rays awaken these spectacular lands. Great herds rove majestically in the distance. Bright blue birds perch in the flat-topped acacia trees while giraffes stroll with leisurely grace. The sky is clear. The air is fresh.

The fragrance opens with a luminous fresh burst of citrusy notes of Tangerine (South Africa) and Blood Orange (South Africa). A bright heart of fresh Orange Flower (Morocco) and zesty Ginger (Nigeria) is supported by woody base of Cedarwood Atlas (Morocco).”

@saintritaparlor Signature Fragrance 

“Finest quality parfum. Limited unisex fragrance comprised of over 18 rare and organic essential oils. Handmade by Saint Rita Parlor in Los Angeles, California.

Rita would tend to her rose garden whilst smoking a hand-rolled tobacco cigarette and drinking a whiskey and water.

Notes: Whiskey, Tobacco, and Rose”

@arquiste Almond Suede

“By Calice Becker. Top notes are Bitter Almond, Honeycomb, Bergamot and Pink Pepper; middle notes are Concrete, Saffron, Neroli, Orange Blossom and Labdanum; base notes are Suede, Pine tar, Sugar and Vanilla Absolute. Almond Suede by Arquiste is a unisex gourmand leather fragrance inspired by Medieval Andalusia and its refined gourmand culture. It balances almond marzipan and suede leather, capturing the essence of the city of Córdoba and almond sweets.”

Next week we’ll be catching up with Part 2 of Suzy’s Brighton Sniffari, and finding out what she went mad for @wild_iris_perfumery!

#ad Meanwhile, we promised to pick just *one* favourite each of the fragrances we’ve loved exploring in our Raconteur Discovery Set II boxes, featuring the new ‘Australiscious’ collection, and after MUCH prevarication, Suzy chose *Daintree Rain Tea* and Nicola chose *Killr Vanillr*! 

Don’t forget to try code onthescent10 @bloomperfumery for 10 percent off discovery sets and full sizes (not sure how long code will still be active, as sets sold out a couple of times, but worth trying  when checking out!) 

https://bloomperfume.com/products/discovery-set-

We’re back from the inaugural @marieclaireuk Fragrance Awards, where the room sparkled with excitement and the scent of creativity. As judges, we celebrated the winners across niche, luxury, designer and high street houses, and the ever-growing world of fragrant body care.

This week’s episode is a journey through summer’s most evocative home scents, from the ultra-luxe to the beautifully affordable, including a spinning disco-ball aromatic mister!!

@meadowfarmlifestyle Smoked Orange & Honey candle: Imagine golden honey drizzled over sun-warmed orange blossoms, with bergamot and ylang ylang weaving through gentle amber smoke. Bright yet intricate, a candle that glows all year.

@tothefairestlondon Cécile candle: Bergamot and mandarin shimmer, melting into rose absolute, amber and clove bud. A candle of modern sensuality - seductive, layered, and utterly beguiling.

@neomwellbeing Squeeze the Day reed diffuser: The scent of ripe citrus, sharp grapefruit, juicy mandarin, and a cool breeze of eucalyptus. Instantly uplifting, a burst of pure sunshine for your space.

@ormondejayne Ambre Royale diffuser: A golden aura of amber, regal and enveloping, adored by Nicola (and her florist). For those who crave warmth and elegance.

@ormondejayne Rosae diffuser: Damascene rose sparkles with pear, blackcurrant, and musk, touched by gourmand fruits. Fresh, shimmering, and temptingly effervescent—perfect for bedrooms and bathrooms.

@baobabcollection FETY MILALAO: Mint and vetiver entwine with ylang-ylang, echoing the playful spirit of Malagasy craftsmanship. The striped raffia recalls Côte d’Azur deckchairs, the scent a sunlit celebration.

@lordsfragrancehouse Monteverde mini room spray: Rain-soaked canopies, orchid and tuberose bloom in the mist, patchouli and woods grounding you in Costa Rica’s lush cloud forest.

Big Sur candle: Green herbs and cracked coriander ride the Pacific breeze, mingling with cedarwood and citrus peels. A breathless journey along sunlit coastline and towering redwoods.

Pengelli Forest reed diffuser: Bluebells, hyacinth, lily of the valley, and orange blossom conjure springtime woods in Wales - mossy, violet, and alive with memory.

#ad Sniff-along as we explore the last two scents in the @the_rac_on_teur Discovery Set II. Use code onthescent10 for an exclusive discount on Discovery Sets and full-size bottles at @bloomperfumery (code extended as sets sold out).

Pavlova Kasanova: Bittersweet distance, a heart of cream and passionfruit, lime and meringue, musk and sandalwood. Sugar kisses and midnight guitars - impossible to forget, a hot summer dream.

Lord Lamington: Rich layers of bergamot, strawberry, clary sage and coconut, cocoa and amber cream. Born for the crown, dipped in sweetness, a cologne for the ambitious - have your cake and eat it.

Which scent calls to you? Tell us below, and look out for our poll on @onthescentpodcast soon.

Our latest #OnTheScent episode finds us prescribing scents for strength and charisma, AND diving into part two of our Sniff-along with @the_rac_on_teur!

Lore asked for a fragrance to project quietly determined authority and charismatic leadership – not sweet florals or heavy ambers, loves tea notes, budget £120. Here’s what we chose and why:

@olfactiveo Skin and Citrus: We recommend layering these from the Discovery Set. Skin is intimate and quietly confident – soft ambrette, beeswax, and sandalwood for ‘your best self’ aura. Citrus adds sparkling bergamot, grapefruit & champagne for sunlit brightness. Together, they radiate understated strength and intrigue.

@bibbi.parfum Ghost of Tom: A lightly smoked protective veil of black tea, bergamot, violet leaf & papyrus. Mysterious, tea-laced depth – perfect for making a memorable impression.

@millerharris Tea Tonique: Like dawn mist over a tea plantation – crisp green tea, zesty bergamot, and a wisp of birch tar. Uplifting and clear-minded (confidence in a bottle).

@ormondejayne Xian: Coolly refined – tea, citrus, & subtle woods for an elegant, versatile signature. Always poised, never overpowering.

#ad Part two of our Sniff-along – We’re exploring the new Discovery Set II from The Raconteur (@the_rac_on_teur). Get ten percent off at @bloomperfumery with code onthescent10 until 9 July 2025.

@the_rac_on_teur Killr Vanillr – Throaty vanilla with vetiver, orris, and hint of white chocolate – think 3am in a club (decadent, unforgettable).

@the_rac_on_teur Ms Macadamia: Bold, nutty macadamia, mimosa, and peach, grounded by vetiver and sandalwood (independent, adventurous, utterly unique).

Teagan asked – What perfumes give you strength and bravery for protest?

@chanel Le Lion: Joyfully empowering – amber, patchouli, vanilla, and citrus remind you of beauty & hope.

@bdkparfums Gris Charnel: Urban elegance – smoky black tea, fig, and sandalwood. Addictively powerful, like armour for the soul.

@beaufortlondon Vie et Armis: Intense, provocative, and ready to protect via lapsang, whisky, tobacco, and incense.

@marcantoinebarrois Ganymede Extrait: Luminous, mineral, and planet-sized intensity – immortelle and incense for celestial focus.

@gritti Rebellion: Sparkling mint and bergamot over earthy patchouli and oakmoss = audacity and freedom.

@mauboussin (by Christine Nagel, & so affordable): HUGEly assertive plum serves spicy defiance.

@nishane.official Sultan Vetiver: Grounded and unshakeable – multiple vetivers, woods, and spices for true inner strength.

Which scent makes YOU feel unstoppable…?

This week, we’re sharing heartfelt listener messages and scent stories that remind us why fragrance is so powerful – it’s a balm for the soul, a memory trigger, and a way to connect.

We answered your burning questions:

• Incense lovers – searching for that nag champa glow? Try @aromafume Nag Champa roll-on, @lush Breath of God (mystic desert incense), @lush Karma (hippy shop bliss), and @amouageofficial Decision (frankincense, myrrh, vanilla – a warm embrace of acceptance).
• Wannabe Perfumers – ready to create your own scent? @experimentalperfumeclub, @maya.njie.perfumes, and @4160tuesdays offer brilliant courses and workshops for every level.

• Fruit & floral fans (no musk, please!): @jeroboamperfumes Hauto (pineapple, tuberose, white musk – but not as you know it), @themerchantofvenice Accordi Profumo Bergamotto Italia (juicy bergamot, woody sparkle), @vallensefragrance Sun (tropical fruits, frangipani, amber – sun-kissed serenity).

• Travellers to Japan – want to battle humidity & bottle the magic? @isseymiyakeparfums A Drop d’Issey Eau Fraîche (raindrops, lilac, sandalwood), @kenzoparfums Flower Ikebana Indigo (inky iris, blue vanilla – new for 2025!), @kenzoparfums Homme Indigo (marine iris, leather, sandalwood – inspired by indigo dyeing).

#ad

During this episode, join our scented sniff-along! We’re diving deep into @the_rac_on_teur Discovery Set II – starting with Daintree Rain Tea (steamy rainforest, cool tea leaves, a whisper of green mystery) and No Tell Motel (olives, intrigue, midnight secrets, a lingering embrace).

Grab your set @bloomperfumery and use code onthescent10 at checkout or in-store for 10% off The Raconteur Discovery Sets & full sizes.

https://bloomperfume.co.uk/products/discovery-set-ii?fbclid=IwQ0xDSwLBOpFleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHk3kHtkPW7pPjt6QWyvk7s_6l8FKDdh9fy9hM02wJwLRdrYVyW5-poEsS77p_aem_q2sEe1iolzOiRoqvwk1F6Q

Sets are flying out, but more are coming in – so keep trying! We will be discussing the reasoning four new ‘Australiscious’ collection scents as part of the next two episodes… 

(Code valid until 9th July 2025.)

This episode is in partnership with Raconteur

In this episode we get to know the incredible Craig Andrade at one of our favourite fragrance stores @bloomperfumery . Craig is the founder of niche fragrance brand @the_rac_on_teur  and his story is both emotional and inspiring.

During the episode we learn about the moment in his life that changed everything and took him from being a lawyer in a high-stress environment to being totally immersed in the world of fragrance to the point that he enrolled himself into the Grasse Institute and started his journey as a perfumer and brand founder.

Craig's brand is astonishing in a number of ways. Not only does he bring little known Australian botanicals to the fore and give them a beautiful spotlight, but there is a wonderful sense of humour and irreverence. (Craig injects so much of his amazing personality into the brand).

Craig is the most passionate and supportive man as you'll hear. He champions everyone in the industry and we feel so lucky that he has also chosen to support our podcast not only for this episode for the next few weeks.

During the episode we have our first encounter with his mind-blowingly brilliant collection. Join us as we sniff six gourmands, each with a uniquely Australian twist and some world-first notes that define his frontier perfumery practice:

 Killr Vanillr — Australians have a bit of a reputation for knowing how to have a good time. This is a scent for 3am — for lovers of late nights and legendary Australian dancefloors. Deep, dark, rich and smokey — a vanilla slice mirror ball. 

 No-Tell Motel — Date night scent — If a dirty martini and spicy margarita hooked up, this would be their motel lock-in. Boozy, flirty, unapologetically fun. 

Two “world firsts” in fine fragrance: an “olive fruit absolute” extract and a CO2 extract of Tasmanian Mountain Pepper — which introduces a new earthy green facet to the spice family. I pioneered this new spice for the signature scent I designed for Australian pop star, Troye Sivan, and No-Tell Motel continues the story of this rare Tasmanian spice. 

 Pavlova Kasanova — A bittersweet ode to long-distance love, built around Australia’s most iconic dessert: the pavlova. 

 Ms. Macadamia — Bold and free-spirited, a scent I designed as a tribute to all the women in my life: Australia’s native macadamia nut, native golden wattle, precious orris root and sultry smokey peach.

 Lord Lamington — A classic cologne, laced with ambition and a slice of Australia’s cocoa-dipped nostalgic cake. For those who want to have their cake and eat it. 

 Daintree Rain Tea — A meditative scent inspired by Australia’s ancient Daintree Rainforest. Rain, tea and rare blue lotus in quiet communion.

AND THIS IS WHERE IT GETS EVEN MORE EXCITING

For the three episodes that follow this one, Suzy and I will be delving even deeper into these fragrances and we'd love for you to join us.

Head to the Bloom Covent Garden website (Or go in store) and purchase one of the amazing Raconteur Discovery Kits via this link . Craig is giving you 10% off with the code onthescent10 . Then join us for an On The Scent sniffalong in each episode, where we can all experience these amazing scents together.

The code will work from 19th June 2025 for four weeks.

We can't wait to go on this journey with you xx

#AD We want our homes to smell great all the time, with a scent wardrobe to match every mood. Baylis & Harding’s Signature Hand Wash collection lets you do just that: luxurious, affordable, and perfectly crafted to elevate your everyday. 

We were so happy to partner with Baylis & Harding for this episode, and to talk about our absolute favourites in their Signature collection…

Both of us love the Sweet Mandarin & Grapefruit Hand Wash, a refreshing citrus blend with mandarin, grapefruit, soft florals and warm amber. We also adore the creamy, indulgent Jojoba, Vanilla & Almond Oil Hand Wash, rich with vanilla and sandalwood, plus the sophisticated Black Pepper & Ginseng Hand Wash, spicy with black pepper, bergamot and cedarwood.

Nicola’s picks include the fresh and floral Jasmine & Apple Blossom Anti-Bacterial Hand Wash, combining wild jasmine with crisp apple and peach, and the soothing Wild Lavender & Geranium Hand Wash, with eucalyptus, citrus, lavender and cedarwood. Suzy’s favourites are the warm, woody Vetiver, Cedar & Lemongrass Anti-Bacterial Hand Wash, blending vetiver, juniper berries and moss, and the vibrant Peony, Lychee & Vanilla Hand Wash, a romantic mix of peony, pear, lily, rose, lychee and vanilla.

Each hand wash is £2.25 and available at Waitrose, Amazon, Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Asda, Morrisons and Ocado. Discover more at @baylisandhardingplc and baylisandharding.com

PLUS, in this episode, after our deep dive into scenting our world and moods, we’re thrilled to bring you an interview with @richard.e.grant – actor, author, broadcaster and founder of @jackperfume – about how he was ‘led by his nose’ all his life, and eventually created his own fragrance house (hugely influenced by his own scent memories). Don’t miss it!

This week on #OnTheScentPodcast, Nicola returns from her travels, bringing a suitcase of scented stories and soul-soothing rituals. To calm flight nerves, she reached for the tranquil embrace of @neomwellbeing Calming Pen, the protective cocoon of @subtleenergies Aura Protection Body Mist, and the bohemian spirit of @thameenfragrance Bohemian Infusion, woven through her scarf like a fragrant talisman.

The hotel’s air shimmered with the signature scent of @annesemoninfrance - luxurious, luminous, and lingering in every soap and lotion, a memory Nicola carried home & treasures.

Back in London, she delighted in the luminous @diptyque & @susannekaufmann_ scented lip oil collaboration, and the witty, fresh @akt_ldn Hay Fever deodorant balm, inspired by Noël Coward’s iconic play.

While Nicola wafted abroad, Suzy uncovered new treasures here: she was enchanted by @4160tuesdays Vianne’s Confession, a story in scent: sea salt and cacao, incense and tomato leaf, rose and rain-dappled cobblestones; crafted with Joanne Harris for her latest novel.

Both Suzy & Nicola swooned in the stunning @cologneandcotton’s Marylebone boutique, celebrating the relaunch of their own fragrances (both fell for Arbela: a sparkling, sunlit blend of petitgrain, sweet orange, and lemon.)

Suzy’s fragrant adventures continued at a @nissaba.fragrances Masterclass @jovoymayfair with Sébastien Tissot. Her faves: Provence sang of lavender fields and aromatic herbs, Berbera smouldered with ancient incense and myrrh, while Grande Ile enveloped her in a spiced vanilla embrace, rich with Madagascar’s precious ingredients.

Finally, Suzy donned green to match the bottle for the launch of @ormondejayne Vetiveria: a dreamy Sicilian lime and Timur pepper fizz atop a heart of snowbell and lavender, rooted in vetiver, moss, and creamy tonka.

We can't WAIT for you to hear this live recording from our Top Of The Morning event at The Barnes Fragrance Fair last Sunday.

What a wonderful day it was and it was so lovely to see so many of you, our dear listeners there.

During our event we had the utter pleasure of interviewing fragrance lover, Barnes resident and acclaimed actress Hayley Mills as well as fragrance industry royalty Chris Yu. It really was a moment that we'll never forget.