Meet Olivia Vandermillen, a.k.a @OliviaOlfactory the vibrant force behind the intoxicating world of fragrance exploration. With a childhood rooted in outdoor adventures and a penchant for storytelling, Olivia’s journey into scents began early, fueled by a deep curiosity and wonderment for the world around her. From the nostalgic embrace of pine trees to the quirky allure of pet aromas, her olfactory experiences weave a rich tapestry of memories and emotions. In this engaging interview, Olivia shares her first scent recollections, dream fragrance concoctions, and sage advice on selecting the perfect scent for life’s most cherished moments.
Q: What was your first scent memory?
A: I was always an outdoorsy kid. I have such fond memories of summertimes spent bike riding, swimming, and climbing trees. We had a near 50 foot pine tree in my backyard that I’d climb with a backpack full of books and snacks, and the scent of my time spent in my little safe haven is forever burned into my memory. Sticky sap, crisp pine needles, earthy bark, and the damp soil below. These scents evoke memories of being young, carefree, and full of wonder.
Q: If you could preserve one scent memory forever, what would it be and why?
A: If I could bottle the scent of my pets, I’d do it in a heartbeat. It’s a scent no one else would quite understand besides other pet owners. The bizarre combination of yeasty corn chips and honey isn’t exactly a fragrance that’d do well on the market, but it’s a pure dopamine rush to me.
Q: If you could create a fragrance based on your favorite memory, what neuroscent notes would you include?
A: I’d have to include juniper to give the crisp green effect of people watching from the top of my perch.
Q: What neuroscience-inspired fragrance would you wear to boost your mood on a rainy day?
A: I’d have to choose Vetiver Imaginaire by Edeniste. The citrus tones blended with delicate jasmine blossoms remind me of warm, lazy summer days spent with my husband in our backyard in California.
Q: If you could experience a neuroscent that instantly transported you to a fictional world from literature or film, which world would you choose, and what would the fragrance smell like?
A: I’d be transported to the 1965 Elvis Musical ‘Girl Happy’, which takes place in a resort in Fort Lauderdale. It’d smell of salty beach air, chlorinated pools, and cigar smoke.
Q: If you were to have a wedding, what scent would you choose to wear?
A: Despite being married for nearly a decade, my husband and I never actually had a wedding. Something I would do differently if I could go back in time. But if I were to choose something now, I’d wear Rosario by House of Bo, which draws its inspiration from the home of my husband, Mexico.
Q: Can you share any tips or tricks on how to select a wedding fragrance?
A: Scent is deeply personal. You want to focus on finding a scent that captures your attention from the start, I suggest something that doesn’t scream, but rather will serve as soft background music throughout your day. Really take your time to test out fragrances on skin, and when the feeling is right, it will speak to you!
With her infectious passion for fragrance and down-to-earth wisdom, Olivia brings a refreshing perspective to the world of perfumery, inspiring others to explore and indulge in the artistry of scent. So, watch the video below and get enthralled by her fragrance knowledge and passion!
If you want to learn more about neuroscents, just visit this link here: https://www.scentbird.com/blog/neuroscents/
2 comments
Engaging read! Your expertise is evident. This post offers practical advice. Thank you for sharing your knowledge. Excited for what’s next on your blog. Keep up the great work!
🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻