Guest Post by Alisa Yurovskaya - a lover of words and scent.

A month ago, I embarked on a journey to Paris, carrying with me a petite bottle of Tilia by Marc-Antoine Barrois I received as a complimentary gift from Shy Mimosa Perfumery. On my first morning in the city of love, bathed in divine sunshine and surrounded by blooming flowers, I spritzed Tilia on my blouse and was instantly transported into an enchanting realm. This floral, optimistic fragrance harmonised perfectly with my 'day in Paris' mood, creating a match made in olfactory heaven. It transformed my perspective: I began to not just see, but feel the city - the flavours, aromas, and vibrant energy - all intensified by the joyous essence of Tilia. Upon my return, an idea had taken root: travelling with a 'matching' perfume can elevate our sensory experiences. And now, I’m on a mission to help you find that perfect scent for your summer escapades.

Finding Your Perfect Scent

Unsure which perfume to choose? Together with Maria, owner of Shy Mimosa, we've curated a selection of destinations paired with niche perfumes that ideally complement one another. Immerse yourself in our sensory journey and find your perfect match.

Amsterdam: A Floral Symphony

When people say, "It smells like Amsterdam," they often mean the pervasive scent of cannabis. But there’s so much more to this enchanting city. Imagine cycling through the vibrant flower fields on the outskirts, past serene windmills and idyllic pastures. Enhance this visual delight with Tulipe by Le Galion, an elegant floral creation featuring notes of iris, acacia, and tulip. This combination of visual and olfactory beauty will make your day in Amsterdam truly perfect.

As night falls, Amsterdam's seductive charm reveals itself. Whether you're exploring the red-light district, visiting a coffee shop or enjoying a boat party, the city’s temptations are endless. This sense of freedom and choice is encapsulated in Junky by Jardins d'Ecrivains, a fragrance inspired by William S. Burroughs first novel. It opens with the fresh scent of hemp, unfolds with sensual gardenia and violet, and wraps you in the warm embrace of cedar and myrrh, like a gentle lover’s jacket at chilly dawn.

Bulgaria: Seaside Serenity

Dreaming of the seaside but tired of crowded beaches? Consider Bulgaria. Home to Maria, the guiding spirit of Shy Mimosa, this country still has unspoiled fishing villages and wild beaches like Karadere, Silistar and Bolata. Picture golden sands, turquoise waters and expansive blue skies: an essence perfectly captured by the aquatic fragrance Villa M by Paul Schütze. This perfume, redolent of the sea, will create memories you'll cherish forever.

Off the beaten path, you may find yourself invited to dinner by a stranger and half an hour later wandering through their lush garden, where trees bend under the weight of ripe figs and peaches. Surrounded by locals, you may experience the language barrier, but there is little to say as you share wine, cheese and the joy of a magical evening. You just sit there in awe, full of sweetness and gratitude to the universe. This magical experience is mirrored in Methexis by Manos Gerakinis, a sensual Greek perfume that seems to bottle those divine evenings under the fig trees.

Nordic Nature: Embrace the Wild

For those seeking solitude and a connection with nature, head north to explore the stunning Nordic landscapes. Climbing hills and mountains requires determination, but the reward at the summit is unparalleled - a sense of triumph beautifully conveyed by North from Mendittorosa Odori d'Anima. This bold fragrance shines like snow-capped peaks under the sun, reconnecting you with your courageous, curious inner child.

After the climb, relax by a tranquil lake whose dark, calm waters will soothe your soul, but whose depths may hold many secrets that you will be lucky enough to discover - you just have to be present and patient. Like the mysterious Id, also by Mendittorosa - a complex scent inspired by the Iddu volcano, with an iris heart that reveals its raw, wild character to only a few.

Staying Home: Discover Local Joys

No plans to travel summer plans? Even a morning in a local community garden can be a sensory delight. Picture the scene: rain-kissed emerald grass, flowers opening to the sun’s gentle rays, and the world reborn in fragile beauty. Iris by Le Galion, with its mellow and nostalgic aroma, captures this serene joy perfectly.

At various stages in life, we learn that 'it's not the destination, it's the journey' and that the most important journey is life itself. If this resonates with you, then Marlowe by Jardins D'Ecrivains is your perfect companion. This woody, spicy and smoky fragrance evokes a walk through an enchanted forest. A heartfelt church service, it tells of the little miracles we see in our everyday lives but fail to recognise.

There's a well-known folk tale about finding treasure in your own garden after a long journey. Perhaps it's time we all explored our own gardens - and perfumery - to find a scent that captures our journey better than any photograph. Discover a scent that immerses you in sensory wholeness, capturing your journey - whatever it may be - with an unparalleled depth and detail. Your adventure awaits, scented and sublime

Visit Shy Mimosa Perfumery in person to sample these beautiful fragrances or order 2ml samples online. Complimentary samples are available with every full-bottle purchase.