Why this rare bloom smells like grace—and why it means so much to me.

I wasn’t planning on writing this post.
But life—like fragrance—has a way of surprising you.

Last week, I was at Target (because, obviously) grabbing a few essentials. It had been a day. The kind of day where you're wrestling with tariffs and wondering if it’s all worth it. You know those? The "maybe I should just quit and sell candles at farmer’s markets in Portugal" kind of moments.

And then I saw it.
A single, broken-off pinkish purple orchid beneath my car. I know it wasn't there when I went in the store.

On my way out, I was thinking about my mom. I almost walked past it—until I heard my mom’s voice in my head: “Cheri, go pick that up. Keep going.”

Even from heaven, she’s still cheering me on. 💜

My mom always loved the color purple—a very specific shade, somewhere between pink and purple. Fuchsia, maybe? Every time I took her to get her nails done, she’d pick the same color. Bright, bold, and unforgettable—just like her. And if it had a dash of sparkle, shimmer, or iridescence? Even better. Honestly, just like my products. She was my biggest cheerleader. I swear she tested every fragrance before it launched, gave feedback like a top tier Sephora reviewer, and never missed a call when I needed to vent (sometimes for hours) about whatever chaos I was navigating —business or otherwise.

So today, on National Orchid Day, I wanted to share a little about why this flower isn’t just stunning—it’s sacred. And why it’s becoming one of my favorite fragrance notes.

What Does Orchid Smell Like?

Orchid doesn’t have a single, defined scent the way, say, rose or lavender does. That’s part of its mystery.

Depending on the variety, orchid notes can smell like:

• Vanilla tinged cream

• Soft powder

• Fresh blossoms

• Subtle green or spicy note

In perfumery, “orchid” is often a fantasy note—a blend crafted to evoke the elegant, clean, slightly exotic aroma we associate with this flower. It’s delicate but not boring. Feminine but not too sweet. Mysterious but approachable.

Think: a whispered compliment. A silk robe. A handwritten love letter.

Symbolism + Fun Facts

Orchids have been obsessed over for centuries. Why?

• In ancient Greece, orchids symbolized virility. Yep, that kind of potency.

• In Victorian England, orchids were rare and expensive, so they represented luxury and refined taste.

• In Chinese culture, they symbolize integrity, humility, and friendship.

• And in modern times? They’re often linked to strength, love, beauty, and spiritual connection.

Fun Fact: There are over 25,000 species of orchids —more than any other flower on Earth. Basically, orchids are the Taylor Swift of the plant world: prolific, poetic, and adored globally.

My Favorite Orchid Infused Scents 

We’ve used orchid notes across several bestsellers at Wicked Good —and they always add this ethereal elegance that people can’t quite put their finger on, but can’t stop smelling.

Here are 3 fragrances where orchid shines brightest:

1. Noir Orchid

Dark. Decadent. Unapologetically Bold.

If mystery had a signature scent, this would be it. Noir Orchid is rich, sensual, and impossible to ignore. It opens with black truffle, ylang-ylang, bergamot, and bitter orange—a striking introduction. The heart reveals the opulent black orchid surrounded by dark florals and fruit accords. Anchored by a moody, sultry base of patchouli, incense, vetiver, vanilla, balsam, and sandalwood, this fragrance is a whole experience.

Why it’s perfect: For those who thrive on drama and decadence. Noir Orchid isn’t just a perfume—it’s a power move.

2. Coco Cabana

Sweet. Tropical. Irresistibly Cheirosa.

Coco Cabana is a luscious, gourmand fragrance that captures the essence of a tropical paradise. It opens with the creamy richness of coconut cream, leading into a heart of warm vanilla and tropical orchid. The scent settles into a delectable base of toasted praline and creamy sandalwood, creating a warm and inviting aroma that lingers beautifully on the skin.

Why it’s perfect: For those who love to indulge in sweet, tropical scents that transport them to sun-kissed beaches and warm, breezy days. Coco Cabana is your go-to fragrance for a dose of sunshine and sweetness, no matter the season.

3. Suede + Orchid

Smooth. Feminine. Mysterious.

If velvet had a scent, this would be it. Suede + Orchid is a decadent floral fragrance inspired by Tom Ford’s Velvet Orchid. It blends notes of honey, rum, and citrus with a deep heart of black orchid, rose, and jasmine—all wrapped in a base of suede, sandalwood, and vanilla.

It’s rich. It’s textured. It’s one of those scents that walks into the room before you do.

Why it’s perfect: For the unapologetically bold. If you love a little drama, shimmer, and sensual energy—this is your power perfume.

4. Anitta

Tropical. Flirty. Boldly Cheirosa.

Anitta is a vibrant, tropical fragrance that captures the essence of Brazilian allure. It opens with the juicy sweetness of passionfruit nectar, leading into a heart of tiger orchid, jasmine honey, and pink patchouli. The scent settles into a warm base of vanilla, creating an irresistible aroma that lingers beautifully on the skin.

Why it’s perfect: For those who love to make a statement with their scent. Anitta is your go-to fragrance for a dose of sunshine and confidence, no matter the season.

5. Ruby Orchid

Floral. Fruity. Irresistibly Alluring.

Ruby Orchid is a captivating fragrance that embodies the sultry allure and vibrant spectacle of burlesque. This floral, fruity, gourmand scent opens with the tantalizing sweetness of vine peach accord, setting the stage for a captivating performance. At its heart, the dual charm of ruby flower orchid and red foxy vanilla bean accord unfolds, a mesmerizing blend that's both magnetic and erotic.

Why it’s perfect: For those who love to make a statement with their scent. Ruby Orchid is your go-to fragrance for a dose of glamour and confidence, no matter the season.

6. Aloha Orchid

Bright. Floral. Effortlessly Chic.

Transport yourself to a tropical paradise with Aloha Orchid, a fragrance that embodies the vibrant spirit of island life. This captivating scent opens with the delicate allure of orchid and jasmine, leading into a heart of gardenia. The base note of musk adds a subtle depth, creating a harmonious blend that's both refreshing and sophisticated.

Why it’s perfect: For those who crave a touch of the tropics in their daily routine. Aloha Orchid is your go-to fragrance for a burst of floral freshness that lingers beautifully throughout the day.

7. Orchid | Single Note

Delicate. Exotic. Timeless.

Orchid | Single Note captures the essence of the orchid flower in its purest form. This fragrance is sweet, floral, and slightly powdery, offering a delicate bloom with an exotic twist. It's a versatile scent that can be worn alone for a subtle floral aroma or layered with other fragrances to add depth and sophistication.

Why it’s perfect: For those who appreciate the beauty of simplicity and the allure of a single, captivating note. Orchid | Single Note is your go-to fragrance for a touch of elegance and timeless charm.

A Whisper from the Universe

So what does an orchid say to you?

For me, it’s a nudge. A reminder to keep going. To bloom, even when things feel heavy. To create beauty, even in moments of doubt.

And if you’re having one of those days—I hope this post is your purple orchid.
A little sign from the universe. Or maybe even from your mom. 💜