Scents tell stories. They can transport people to their favorite places, help them recall their favorite memories, make them think of a loved one or help them express their individual style and personality.
This is something that Ashley Scott, owner and maker at Pepper Cottage Co., knows firsthand. The Lebanon-based business offers fragrances inspired by the connection between scent, memory and emotion.
Scott initially began making candles as a creative outlet and fell in love with the process of crafting unique scent blends. Two years later, she went full-time.
Scott attributes the business milestone to the local community. “Without the support of family, friends, customers, and other business owners, I do not think Pepper Cottage would be where it is today.”
The emphasis on storytelling and creating scents that connect with people is evident in Pepper Cottage Co. fragrances.
Scott recalls a time when a customer smelled a Pepper Cottage perfume roller with a bright, citrusy scent. The customer turned to Scott and said enthusiastically, “Wow, this smells like ME!” And Scott agreed.
She says, “Because memory and emotion are so closely tied to scent, the fragrances we choose to wear or burn in our home go beyond just making us and our spaces smell good. It can make us feel more confident, remind us of a loved one, or make parts of our personalities almost become tangible.”
Each signature Pepper Cottage scent is crafted with care. Scott explains the process of developing new blends is as unique as the scent itself. Sometimes the smell reminds her of something and inspires the name, like Dancing in the Moonlight. Other times, she has a specific vision that she will take months trying to create and perfect, like the best-selling Homebody.
Scott shares that she wants Pepper Cottage Co. candles and fragrances to not only spark memories and be a form of expression, but to become a moment of peace. “We are all busy and constantly working to check off the next task. Slowing down takes intention and effort for most of us. I believe pairing your favorite scent with your ‘slow down’ rituals not only makes the experience more enjoyable but also sends a signal to our brain that lets us know we can officially relax.”
Each year, Scott releases seasonal favorites like Cider Festival, but she is introducing something new this fall. She will debut Campfire Stories, which features pumpkin, marshmallow, clove, caramel and spice notes.
Whether you are looking for a seasonal fragrance, a signature scent, custom candles for your business or a moment of peace, Pepper Cottage Co. has a variety of options. Products are available locally at retailers like Public Square Marketplace in Lebanon, Modern Revival in Watertown and The Village Forager in Mt. Juliet.
All of the fragrances are also available with shipping or free local pickup at PepperCottageCo.com.
Without the support of family, friends, customers, and other business owners, I do not think Pepper Cottage would be where it is today.
It can make us feel more confident, remind us of a loved one, or make parts of our personalities almost become tangible.