The Emotions That Certain Scents Are Known to Evoke

May 16, 2023

Scent has the power to evoke emotions, memories, and moods. Certain scents can create a sense of calm and relaxation, while others can create a feeling of invigoration and energy.

Understanding the emotions that certain scents are known to evoke can help hotels create a signature scent that enhances the guest experience and creates a memorable impression. Here are some of the emotions that certain scents are known to evoke, according to Vogue’s “Scents That Will Boost Your Mood (and When to Wear Them)” article by Lauren Valenti:

Calming and Relaxing Scents
Scents such as lavender, chamomile, and vanilla are known for their calming and relaxing properties. These scents can help to create a sense of tranquility and calmness, which can be particularly beneficial in guest rooms or spa areas. According to the Vogue article, lavender is also known to reduce stress and anxiety, making it a popular choice for hotels looking to create a peaceful and relaxing ambiance.

Refreshing and Energizing Scents
Scents such as citrus, peppermint, and eucalyptus are known for their refreshing and energizing properties. These scents can help to create a sense of invigoration and energy, which can be particularly beneficial in public areas such as lobbies and conference rooms. According to the Vogue article, citrus scents are known to increase alertness and concentration, making them a popular choice for hotels looking to create a lively and energetic atmosphere.

Understanding the emotions that certain scents are known to evoke can help hotels create a signature scent that enhances the guest experience and creates a memorable impression.

Sophisticated and Luxurious Scents
Scents such as sandalwood, patchouli, and musk are known for their sophisticated and luxurious properties. These scents can create a sense of elegance and refinement, which can be particularly beneficial in high-end hotels or luxury spas. According to the Vogue article, sandalwood is also known for its grounding and balancing properties, while patchouli is known for its mood-boosting effects.

Comforting and Familiar Scents
Scents such as cinnamon, apple, and pumpkin are known for their comforting and familiar properties. These scents can create a sense of warmth and coziness, which can be particularly beneficial in guest rooms or during the holiday season. According to the Vogue article, cinnamon is also known to improve mood and cognitive function, making it a popular choice for hotels looking to create a welcoming and inviting atmosphere.

 

Stimulating and Sensual Scents
Scents such as jasmine, ylang-ylang, and rose are known for their stimulating and sensual properties. These scents can create a sense of romance and intimacy, which can be particularly beneficial in couples’ suites or romantic getaways. According to the Vogue article, jasmine is known to be an aphrodisiac and is often used in aromatherapy to enhance mood and relaxation.

 

In summary, understanding the emotions that certain scents are known to evoke can help hotels create a signature scent that enhances the guest experience and creates a memorable impression. By choosing scents that align with the hotel’s brand and desired guest experience, hotels can create a unique and memorable scent that adds to the overall ambiance and atmosphere of the property.