What’s your favorite smell? A rain-soaked beach? Lilacs in the sunshine? Fresh, clean laundry that’s just been taken down from the clothesline? You just read some words, describing smells, and I bet you could see the images in your mind, too. That’s the power of a great scent, and it’s a power that The Candle Fusion Studio understands well.
The contributors here at St. Louis Moms Blog got a chance to kick back, relax, and mix up our favorite scents at this beautiful and welcoming space in the Central West End last month (check out the Facebook LIVE from that evening!) The studio is housed in a large, historic space (it used to house Bissinger’s chocolates, and there’s a little nod left behind to honor that legacy–go see if you can find it) The ambiance is modern and clean.
Clearly-labeled candles line the walls, showcasing the array of scents available for your own concoctions (or to purchase as-is if you’re in a hurry!) Benches invite you to make yourself at home and pop open a lid or two . . . or ten. Most notably, one wall is lined with a shiny counter and stools. It looks like something you might find in a chic bar, but instead of liquor bottles on the wall, there are rows and rows of brown bottles containing scented oils and instead of mixing you up a delicious cocktail, the friendly staff is there to help you create your own custom product.
What kind of products? You can make candles (obviously), room refresher spray, body spray, bath salts, diffuser oil, and wax melts. No matter what you choose to make, the process starts the same way: choosing your favorite scents.
With scientific precision (and a cute little clipboard) you go around the room determining what scents you like. There’s no need to figure out if they go well together or try to pick a theme. Just sniff and write down the best ones. Fresh cut grass? Coffee? Old books? Lavender? Oranges? Cookies? They’ve got it all!
Next, you head to the bar with your list of chosen fragrances and pick out your top three or four. An extremely friendly staff member will get those scents and show you how to waft them together to see if you like the combination. Indecisive? They’ll let you mix and match until your heart (and nose) is content!
When it’s time to actually blend your concoction, you’ll be given clear instructions and the opportunity to further customize your signature scent. I ended up with a strong base of sandalwood mixed with lilac and sunflower and just a dash of orange zest. I got it in essential oil form for a diffuser, and it makes my whole house smell heavenly!
Not only do you walk away from The Candle Fusion Studio with a great product, but you’ll have fun while you’re there! It’s a very hands-on activity that would be great for date night, a girls’ night out, or some mother-daughter bonding time.
Have you been to The Candle Fusion Studio? If so, share what you made and what scents you used in the comments!
