Have you stepped into a Hilton lately? We did recently for a conference. 

And let us tell you … It smelled incredible! It was intoxicating and delicious — but not overpowering. 

Another attendee said, “This is how every Hilton smells! It’s their signature scent.”

We did some Googling and apparently:

Hilton’s White Tea & Thyme is a warm, clean, soft and welcoming with top notes of herbaceous Thyme, Coriander, Cucumber, and Watery Greens; delicately balanced with mid notes of White Tea Leaves, Violet, Rose, and Jasmine; and finished with very light Musks. 

Made by Aroma Retail, the fragrance is made of “pure grade essential oils; designed to be diffused in public spaces without the public’s consent.” This means the fragrance cannot have any synthetic toxins or volatile organic compounds that could cause an allergic reaction.

It didn’t affect our allergies and it was just in the lobby — not in the rooms.

This process is called “scenting” and it taps into the powerful effect that scent has on our mood, experience and memories.

Hotels, cruise ships and retailers are all utilizing the power of ambient scent.scent

Having a signature scent can: 

  • Foster brand identity
  • Create an emotional connection
  • Improve mood
  • Reduce stress 
  • Eliminate unpleasant smells
  • Increase customer spending and time spent in a space 

Does your practice have a scent? 

Many medical practices have a medicinal scent, or worse. While we have to be mindful of allergies and sensitivities, it still may be possible to engage your patients with a gentle and welcoming waft upon arrival. Here are some suggestions:

  • Diffuse essential oils 
  • Put a few drops of essential oils on a cotton ball tucked away in the lobby
  • Simmer a tea of cinnamon sticks, orange rind and vanilla 
  • Use an essential oil room mist to freshen the lobby before opening 

We know one thing for sure. If your practice smelled like the Hilton, we’d be there all the time! To augment these budget-friendly ways to beautify your medical practice, perhaps you can create a signature scent for your practice?