Perfumes: Gifting Aromatically

How to Buy Perfume as a Gift
Fragrance is a very personal product, and choosing it is best left to the person who will wear it. Women in general are all very fond of perfumes. One of the many things that is so essentially feminine is an aromatic product that you know for sure will be admired. Once you know her preferences, gifting a perfume is rather easy, especially as you’ll know what to look for and always get appreciated for it!

* Firstly, find out what kind of perfume she normally wears. The type of perfume she wears is a strong indicator of her personality. You could ask her during a casual conversation, or do a little sleuthing on your own, if you are the adventurous type.

* Once you’ve got that you can begin sorting your search by choosing a bottle of that fragrance. Choices do not have to be limited to perfume, but can include body lotion, bath oil or personal bars of soap, either ways they’ll be special to her!

* Buy the fragrance in a store or online. If possible, buy one from a store that’s near her apartment. So even if she does not fancy the type, she can always exchange it for another. Women generally wear perfumes for several reasons. One, for their impression, one either to project themselves as similar to the fragrance and lastly purchase something different, in case they are fed up of the same aroma.

* Check the exchange policy, especially if you have bought a brand of fragrance that you are not sure the recipient likes. This projects you as thoughtful and understanding, in other words two thumbs up for you on that one!

* Wrap the perfume box, or arrange fragrance items in an attractive gift basket. Gifts for women need to be projected as gifts and not mere souvenirs.

If you are in a close relationship (spouse, boyfriend) with the intended recipient, and if you don't know what fragrance she wears, choose something that smells good to you. Sometimes, a woman’s instinct may also get to you, being in the presence of one! But just make sure it can be exchanged if she doesn't share your enthusiasm.

The price of perfume is extremely variable. You can pay less than $10 per bottle for some drugstore varieties, or more than $100 per ounce for designer scents. Make sure it is appropriate for the person's age. A younger person usually doesn't like anything too heavy. Also, an eau de toilette or a mist, rather than perfume, is probably better if you are unsure of the person's tastes.

Going about buying your favorite fragrance:
* Research your personal taste in fragrance. Do you like to smell lemons, vanilla, roses, and musk?

* Ask the woman wearing the intriguing scent of freesia what her perfume is called.

* Think of fragrances the same way you think of music: top, middle and base notes. Note that a top note is what you smell first; citrus and light spices are the first smells to evaporate.

* Focus on your favorite smells and take that knowledge to the fragrance counter, where a skillful salesperson will lead you in the right direction. Clean linens, tea, grapefruit, citronella candles, vanilla beans, or even rainwater are also good hints.

* Apply a scent and wait 10 minutes. Remember to spray on pulse points, where skin is warmest, for best diffusion of scent.

* Sniff the test spot again. Still like it? Chances are you'll like it tomorrow, but keep in mind that as the top and middle notes evaporate, you're left with the heaviest oils.

* Ask for a wrapped package when you make your decision.

If you are still unsure, its best to clear your nose with coffee beans while testing a lot of different perfumes; ask for one at the counter. Some women like a cleaner, citrusy smell for casual wear and a muskier fragrance for special occasions. Remember that the less you expose the perfume or cologne to the air, the longer it will last. All the best!