Meet the Irish perfumery selling wedding magic by the bottle

Together, you and your partner can create a signature Eau de Parfum that’s eau so special to you both

Create your own signature scent for your big day.

There are certain, but few, moments in life so perfect that you wish you could just capture them in their entirety, seal them away and revisit whenever you want.

Sure, you could take a picture or record a video to come back to later, but you’ll never be able to step back in time to that very moment: to experience it all over again without having a single detail changed.

If it were possible, we’d all choose hugely different events to come back to — from our first kiss, to the last moments we shared with a lost loved one, or the time we finally got that promotion.

For most people though — the lucky ones at least — there are few days more worth revisiting than your wedding day.

Walking down the aisle, saying ‘I do’ before all your loved ones and dancing the night away together as newlyweds — it doesn’t get much better than that.

Few people can attest to this more strongly than Andriana Tsankova, who runs the Kilkenny perfume shop Valley of Roses and has dedicated the last several years to creating ‘signature scents’ that allow people to experience the magic of their wedding day over and over again.

“Perfume is the key to our memories, and your wedding day is a treasure trove of the best memories possible” Andriana explains. “Perfume holds the key to unlocking those cherished moments for years to come — at Valley of Roses, we believe that your own unique wedding fragrance can transport you back to your most important day time and time again, making it a truly unforgettable experience.” 

As with many other aspects of the big day, the secret to getting the signature scents just right is to let both Mr and Mrs have their say. “Our scents are equal in popularity with both men and women,” Andriana shares. “In recent years, there has been a noticeable shift in societal perceptions of masculinity and self-care, especially in the context of weddings. Men are now more open to embracing grooming rituals and paying attention to their personal scent on their wedding day, recognising the importance of selecting a fragrance that complements their personality and adds to their overall confidence and presence. This shift signifies a departure from traditional norms, highlighting that every detail, from grooming to fragrance, contributes to creating a lasting and memorable impression, underscoring the significance of scent in the modern groom's wedding experience.” 

Andriana Tsankova believes astrology plays a huge role in influencing our personal preferences when it comes to fragrance.

It’s not just equal participation from each partner that helps make a great wedding perfume, however. As Andriana explains, there are many aspects that go into creating the perfect scent — with astrology even coming into play! “When finding a signature wedding scent, star signs can play a fascinating role in the decision-making process. Each zodiac sign is associated with distinct personality traits, preferences, and elements, which can guide individuals towards scents that resonate with their astrological profiles.

“For instance, earth signs like Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn may gravitate towards grounding and sensual fragrances with woody or earthy notes, while air signs like Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius might prefer lighter, more airy scents with floral or citrus undertones. Fire signs such as Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius often lean towards bold and passionate fragrances, featuring spicy or warm notes. Lastly, water signs like Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces tend to be drawn to emotional and intuitive scents, often favouring aquatic or musky fragrances. By considering their star sign's characteristics, couples can add an extra layer of personalisation to their wedding day and find a scent that resonates with their astrological identity.  

 “The star sign reading is just one aspect that helps us find the right perfume for a couple though. Our perfume sessions at Valley of Roses typically last for two hours, where we delve into a personalised consultation and an engaging perfume quiz to gain deeper insights into your unique taste and personality. The session also includes a glass of bubbles and some nibbles, priming your senses for the adventure ahead! It’s a real treat overall, and we’re still seeing demand grow for it. Our Perfume Parties are very popular with couples and hen parties in particular, so if you’re thinking of doing a session with us we recommend you book early to avoid disappointment.” 

Valley of Roses is based in the beautiful Kilkenny city, where you'll find plenty of romantic landmarks including Kilkenny Castle.

If you are heading to Valley of Roses in search of a signature scent for your big day, you’ll have the perfect opportunity to explore the beautiful medieval streets of Kilkenny while you’re at it. Bulgarian-born Andriana has fallen head over heels for the city, and has seen the same thing happen to countless visitors there.

“Kilkenny city's romantic allure lies in its historic charm, with cobbled streets, medieval architecture, and the magnificent Kilkenny Castle creating an enchanting backdrop,” she describes fondly. “The scenic River Nore flows through the city, offering idyllic walks and picturesque views, while cosy cafes, traditional pubs, and top class restaurants provide ideal settings for romantic moments. The city's vibrant arts scene, cultural events and boutique shops make it the perfect destination for couples seeking to deepen their connection while surrounded by history and beauty. Whether it's a leisurely stroll along the riverbanks, a visit to the castle's gardens, or a romantic meal, Kilkenny's ambiance is sure to kindle romance for any couple!”