I don’t typically wear perfume (body splash and scented lotion will do), but I think such a special occasion is worthy of a special scent. My mom and I visited Sephora recently and began sniffing around. Lost in a cloud of several fragrances and on the verge of a headache, I was nowhere near making a decision 15 minutes into my visit. Then a sales associate kindly asked if I needed help. Once I explained why we were there (and how we had narrowed it down to some favorites, but they started to confuse my nose), she offered to put together samples of all the scents I was considering—how awesome is that?
I've been wearing the samples ever since in an attempt to make a decision. Want to help?
Marc Jacobs Daisy
Marc Jacobs Daisy is sweet and sophisticated; I can’t say whether it smells just like a daisy, but it certainly is floral. Don't get me wrong, it isn't too sweet (I don't like overly sugary scents) but it does have some feminine notes.
Here's a negative: I asked Corey to sniff each perfume in their little sample baggies and he said this reminded him of rubbing alcohol. Not good. However, later when I wore it for a day and asked if he liked it, he said yes. Oh fickle fiancé!
Flora Eau de Parfum by Gucci
From the classy bottle to the subtly-sweet scent, I love this one. Apparently Flora Eau de Parfum is supposed to be inspired by princesses from the past, present and future. I’m all for a fairy tale, but know I’m far from a princess. Still, I love how it's not overpowering and has some faint floral notes. There are soft citrus undertones as well. I think this might be a favorite!
Flora by Gucci Eau Fraîche
This seems to be the more subdued citrus version of the Flora Eau de Parfum, but in my opinion there is another difference between the two scents that I can't quite put my finger on. If anyone has worn Eau Fraîche before, please let me know! I certainly don’t want the scent to wear off quickly on my wedding day.
Oh, Lola! By Marc Jacobs
This is the wild card of the bunch. Oh, Lola! has a bit more spice and personality than the other options. It’s described as “flirty” on the Sephora website, which made me feel like it isn’t quite bridal. Still, I love the scent. The bottle is certainly a work of art within itself.
Dream Angels Heavenly Eau de Parfum
Okay, this last one is obviously not from Sephora. I’ve liked Dream Angels Heavenly (a Victoria’s Secret fragrance) ever since I worked there in college. Heavenly lives up to its name—the perfume is soft, sweet, and almost powdery fresh. This is a very clean fragrance and I’d certainly describe it as bridal. Although it's a classic favorite of mine, I haven't owned a bottle in years, so it would still be "new" for Corey.
So what do you guys think? Which fragrance should I go with?
—Nikki Stroud
Nikki Stroud is a real bride who is learning every step of the way when it comes to wedding planning. She and her fiancé, Corey Allan (both Ball State alums), will be married in September of 2012 in front of their friends and family in Indianapolis. Glittering ivory lights, exposed plumbing and sleek wood floors depict their romantic yet rustic venue in the Downtown area. The couple hopes to incorporate personal touches to make the celebration truly reflect their relationship.
