In a world where so much of life has shifted online, in-person events and experiences have become the new premium.
Bringing people together creates genuine connection — and research shows we are craving it more than ever. According to EventMB’s 2024 State of the Event Industry Report, 73% of attendees say that face-to-face experiences are more valuable than virtual, and 81% of organisers believe interactive elements are the key to engagement.
When I go to events, I don’t just want to sit back and watch — I want to be involved, to use my hands, to try something new. And I know I’m not alone.
This is exactly what I see at our own in-person experiences — whether it’s a perfume-making class, a scent station at a large event, or a team workshop filled with learning. People absolutely love using their hands, experimenting with the different oils, and creating something that is uniquely their own.
This is why creative, sensory experiences are becoming so popular. They give people the chance to engage fully, to make something tangible, and to walk away with a memory they’ve literally crafted themselves.
Photo by @nessstudios888
A scent bar — also called a fragrance station or perfume bar — is a perfect example. It’s not just about a beautiful fragrance drifting through the air. It’s about giving guests the chance to explore natural aromas, play with different notes, and create their own perfume, room mist or scented item. It’s interactive, immersive, and deeply personal — the kind of experience that keeps guests talking long after the last glass of champagne is poured.
At Sensoriam, we are passionate about exactly these things: our senses, engagement, working with our hands, the alchemy of blending, and the beauty of 100% natural ingredients. A natural scent bar or natural perfume station brings all of this together — connection, creativity, and memory — making it a powerful addition to any in-person event.
How does a scent bar work?
A scent bar can be as simple or as elaborate as you want it to be.
The Many Styles of Scent Bars
Over the years, I’ve seen (and created) many different types of scent bars. Each has its own flavour, level of interaction, and impact — and I love how adaptable they are depending on the event.
1. Perfume Discovery Displays
Sometimes a scent bar is simply a beautifully styled display of perfumes or scented objects that guests can explore at leisure. At events, this can feel a little like when there’s a touch-up station for makeup or hair — only here, it’s a perfume top-up bar where people can refresh their fragrance and discover something new at the same time.
We do this often at Sensoriam with our Scent Station, where guests can explore our incredible collection of 100% natural perfumes. Because Sensoriam isn’t just about perfume classes and workshops — we hold one of the largest curated collections of natural perfume brands in one place — it becomes a moment of true discovery. Guests are often amazed: “Where have you been all my life?” or “I’ve been searching for natural perfume because I can’t wear the synthetic stuff!” It’s always a hit.
2. Pre-Blended Note Bars
Another style is where bottles of pre-blended perfume elements are displayed — top, middle and base notes prepared in advance. Guests are invited to smell these different layers and select their favourites, which a facilitator then blends on the spot for them into a perfume to take home.
Often these setups have a luxe, laboratory-inspired look — polished, shiny, and sometimes heavy on plastics. At Sensoriam, we prefer to keep things elegant, natural and warm. The guest doesn’t do the blending themselves, which makes this option fast and efficient, perfect for high-volume events where many people want to leave with a fragrance. Options can be limited for speed or expanded for a more in-depth exploration. And of course, we only ever work with 100% natural pre-blends.
3. Hands-On Creation Stations
This is the most interactive and personal style. Small stations are set up where guests sit down and actually make their own scent or scented object from start to finish. They use droppers, mix oils, test and adjust — their intuition and inner alchemist come alive. People absolutely love this level of engagement.
Because it’s more hands-on, it takes more time. With 100% natural essential oils, the more options you provide, the longer the process — so you can tailor the choices to a theme. With 5–7 oils, a guest can create a beautiful, personalised roll-on or mist in 25–30 minutes. For longer immersive workshops, the experience can run 2–3 hours and include multiple creations. This is always facilitated, and guests also get to personalise their bottles, making it a truly memorable keepsake.
4. Scent Pairing Stations
A growing trend is pairing fragrance with another sensory element — for example, wine, chocolate, tea, or botanicals. Guests explore how aromas complement taste and texture, and then create a perfume inspired by their chosen pairing. This is especially powerful for brand activations or premium dining events where multi-sensory storytelling is key.
5. Themed or Seasonal Scent Bars
Another style is to align the perfume bar with a theme — think “summer botanicals,” “Australian natives,” or “festive spices.” Guests still get to create or explore scents, but within a curated palette that ties into the event’s mood. This works beautifully for weddings, product launches, or seasonal celebrations.
We did this themed Scent Experience for an art exhibition for Curatorial & Co.
6. DIY Scent Bar
DIY versions are also possible. A fragrance bar can be set up with essential oils, droppers, mixing beakers, and small roll-on or mist bottles so guests can mix and match their own signature scent. You can add apothecary style dried flowers, crystals and fun labelling to add to the experience.
It is great for team experiences or collab events with a beautiful restaurant like we did with Pilu.
Why include a fragrance bar at your event?
A scent bar is more than a novelty — it offers:
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Connection: Guests slow down, explore scents together, and share stories. We literally breathe deeper when we smell with intent. This then slows our system down and we relax more.
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Memorability: Fragrance is directly linked to memory. A custom perfume becomes a sensory anchor, recalling the event every time it’s worn.
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Luxury: A scent bar elevates your event into an experience, not just an occasion.
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Personalisation: No two perfumes are the same, giving every guest something unique to take home. When I let guests know that their creation has never been made before, due to the possible combinations and drops, they are amazed and very proud of themselves.
What types of items can be made at a scent bar?
Of course, this all depends on how much time is available as it suits your event.
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Perfume Roll-On Bar – Each guest blends their own natural perfume roll on.
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Eau de Parfum Spray Perfume – Each guest blends their own natural perfume spray as traditional eau de parfum. This is definitely a favourite.
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Room Mist Station – Individuals or Groups create signature mists to spritz into their spaces.
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Mood Bar – Scents designed around emotions and wellbeing (calm, joy, energy, focus).
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Themed Scent Bars – Customised for weddings, brand activations, or seasonal celebrations.
What events are scent bars good for?
The short answer: almost any gathering. They’re especially perfect for:
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Weddings and bridal showers
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Corporate team-building or brand launches
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Private parties, birthdays and anniversaries
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Wellness retreats and community experiences
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Hens or bucks events with a luxe, creative twist
Wherever people gather to celebrate, a scent bar adds an unforgettable layer, I believe.
Photo by @nessstudios888
Why natural scents matter
Not all fragrance bars are created equal. Many use synthetic fragrance oils that may smell strong but lack depth — and can cause headaches, allergies or environmental harm. At Sensoriam, we believe in the power of 100% natural scents. They connect us back to nature, support wellbeing, and ensure your event feels as good as it smells.
How to make it truly immersive
A beautiful perfume bar is about more than oils on a table. The full experience comes alive through:
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Luxe styling – glass bottles, botanical displays, elegant signage.
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Guided experience – facilitators who share stories of ingredients and help guests blend.
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Multi-sensory touches – flowers, textures, music, and lighting that complement the scents.
This transforms a perfume bar into a true sensory ritual.
DIY vs. Sensoriam
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DIY Scent Bar
Set up your own at home or in a venue: provide a selection of essential oils, droppers, and bottles. Keep it simple with 3–5 oils to avoid overwhelm. Perfect for intimate dinners or kids’ parties where playfulness is key. Reach out if you want some help on what to choose, I am happy to help. -
Sensoriam Scent Bar
For larger or more polished events, Sensoriam brings the full luxury experience. We provide curated natural perfumes, premium tools and vessels, styled setups, and expert facilitators to guide your guests. Every detail — from ingredient sourcing to elegant presentation — is handled for you.
Photo by @nessstudios888
Final note
A scent bar is more than a feature at your event — it’s an experience, a memory, and a gift. Whether you create a DIY perfume station with essential oils, or invite Sensoriam to design a bespoke, natural fragrance bar, you’ll be offering your guests something truly unique: the chance to follow their nose, naturally.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a scent bar at an event?
A scent bar (also called a fragrance station or perfume bar) is an interactive setup where guests can explore natural aromas and even create their own perfume, room mist, or scented object to take home. It adds a unique, sensory element to any event.
Learn more about our Sensoriam Scent Bar options here.
Are fragrance bars good for parties and weddings?
Yes! Scent bars are perfect for weddings, private parties, and corporate events. They give guests something creative, memorable, and personal to do — and every time they wear or use their custom scent, they’ll be reminded of your event.
Can I DIY a perfume bar for my event?
Absolutely. A DIY perfume bar can be set up with a few essential oils, droppers, and bottles so guests can mix their own simple scent. For a more luxurious and fully styled experience, Sensoriam can design and facilitate a natural perfume bar for you, using 100% natural ingredients.
Why should I choose a natural scent bar instead of synthetic fragrances?
Natural perfumes are made from botanicals, essential oils, and plant extracts — they’re alive, layered, and connect us back to nature. Synthetic fragrances may smell strong, but they often contain chemicals linked to headaches, allergies, and environmental harm. A natural scent bar ensures your event feels as good as it smells.
Are natural perfume bars safe for guests with sensitivities?
Yes. Because we only use 100% natural ingredients, our scent bars are gentler and more suitable for people who can’t wear synthetic fragrances. Guests often tell us they’ve avoided perfume for years, only to find they can finally enjoy scent again through our natural blends.
