Some of my first forays into the world of fragrance came through an interest in aromatherapy. I loved the idea that fragrance could be a source of healing as well as pleasure, and was enthralled with the concept of capturing some 'essence' of a plant or flower through distillation, for use in beauty, healing or massage.
I have therefore been delighted to see so many new natural and 'eco-friendly' cleaning product companies using essential oils to scent their products. It seems like a natural complement — many oils have disinfecting and antibacterial properties, as well as alleged psychological benefits, so why not combine them and be kind to the environment as well? Recently, the products have been getting increasingly sophisticated as well, with Seventh Generation coming up with rather delightful blends…
A laundry hamper made out of vetiver!
A friend of mine recently sent me a wonderful gift: the Alora Ambiance Reed Diffuser in Uno. Alora Ambiance was, as I understand it, the first company to introduce the diffuser concept to the United States, based off a home fragrance tradition that the founding partners — sisters — stumbled across while living in Italy near the gorgeous Lago di Como. This lovely concept has been highly successful in the US, and has since seen a variety of companies introduce similar products. 
I have always had a soft spot for Valentine's Day. I can't help but feel that there must be just a little bit of magic in anything that brings deep rose, burgundy and crimson colors into the heart of a fluffy white snow-filled February. Small but decadent boxes of chocolate beckon, velvety red petals abound, a brief moment in time where one is allowed to be unabashedly romantic if one wishes….