When it comes to the aromas of your wedding day, the nose knows, so it’s important to understand the science of scent and the phenomenon known as olfactory memory. Memories triggered by scent are scientifically proven to be stronger and more emotional than those triggered by other senses like sight and sound. The close connection between the olfactory sense and the brain provides insight as to why. “The sensory cells in your nose have direct access into your brain, and it’s the only sensory system that does that,” explains Robby Greene, MD PHD, professor in the department of psychiatry and department of neuroscience at UTSW Medical Center’s Peter O’Donnell Jr. Brain Institute. “It’s a one- or two-link step from the olfactory system into your memory centers in the hippocampus.” He adds that the perceived importance of an event directly correlates with the amount of norepinephrine and dopamine that are released in the brain, which help “imprint a perfect memory.”
Flower Power
Pick your petals wisely, whether you prefer fruity, sweet, subtle, or strong.
The same way you can instantly recall sentimental scents from your childhood—chocolate chip cookies baking, freshly-cut grass, sunscreen and salty air—the scents from your wedding day will forever be etched in your brain. It’s science! (See “The Science of Scent.”) Sophie Cox, owner of Blushington Blooms, shares seven blooms sure to leave a lasting impression.
White O’Hara Garden Rose
Sophie loves this “full and textured” aromatic bloom that gives off notes of another popular fragrant flower—gardenia. “As these roses open, the smell becomes more bold!” she says.
Available: Year round
Sweet Pea
Excellent for adding frilly texture to arrangements, this “dainty and delicate” flower—which represents gratitude and happiness—is paired with a “soft and airy” fragrance, says Sophie.
Available: Late spring or early fall
Tweedia
Known for its star-shaped blue or white blooms and grayish-green felted leaves, this “small but mighty” wildflower boasts a jasmine-like scent.
Available: Summer and fall
Bowl of Cream Peony
“Peonies are widely loved for their texture, but the unsung hero is their smell!” says Sophie. “The notes of rose and citrus are reminiscent of an English garden and can make anyone smile.”
Available: Mid- to late spring
Lilac
“This flower’s fragrance has been historically used for its relaxing and calming effect,” notes Sophie. Growing in cones of tightly packed purple blossoms, it gives shape to arrangements.
Available: Summer
Chamomile
Sophie says these whimsical miniature wildflowers—well known for their use in teas—have an “intoxicating” herbal scent that is most closely compared to apples or freshly cut grass.
Available: Spring and summer
Spritz This
Real brides share the personal fragrances they wore on their wedding day and why they chose them.
“Inflorescence” by Byredo
“I got married at Trinity River Audubon Center and was inspired to wear something floral.”
—Julie Judson
“Tiffany & Love” by Tiffany & Co.
“My sister and maid of honor gave it to me as my ‘something blue.’ ”
—Molly Rihani
A blend of “Wood Sage & Sea Salt” and “Blackberry & Bay” by Jo Malone
“I loved that we could get candles with the matching scents. We burned them the whole wedding day and gave them as thank you gifts.”
—Melissa Tallo
