My first memory of fragrance is my mother. She always smelled so floral when I was a child—of lilies, jasmine and violets. I have no idea where these fragrances came from, but she always had shiny, sparkling bottles piled up on her dressing table—and I’ve been fascinated ever since.

When the opportunity arose, I leapt at the chance to work with Jo Malone. It’s a brand that’s been part of my life for a long time and I’ve always loved it. It’s British like I am, and there’s something infinitely special and quirky about it. I mean, who doesn’t want to smell like Blackberry & Bay?

I started wearing [Jo Malone's] Red Roses when I was 22. I smelled it on a friend of mine, loved how gentle and sweet it was, and begged her to tell me what it was. The very next day I was at Jo Malone London buying my own bottle.

It was at the same time that I met my now-husband, James. The first thing that drew me to him was his scent. When I asked him what it was, he said, “Amber & Lavender by Jo Malone London.” I saw that as a sign. He still wears it now and whenever I travel without him, I take a small bottle with me.

I usually apply my scent before I get dressed, ideally straight out of the bath. I start with a bath oil, then body cream and finally cologne. Depending on which scent I choose, that will determine what I wear that day or night. Scent, for me, always takes pole position.

I usually adapt my scents to the seasons. It’s simple. I like something fresh and floral like Peony & Blush Suede when the sun is out, and for the colder months, something a little richer and more intoxicating like Pomegranate Noir.

I’m bonkers about candles and can be known to light hundreds, even in the middle of the day. When I want to relax I love Wood Sage & Sea Salt, as it reminds me of holidays and the sunny outdoors. When I have people over I love the famous Lime Basil & Mandarin, as it fills every corner of the house and reminds me of naughty late nights. 

A friend once told me I needed a wedding scent so that whenever I smelled it, it would remind me of the best day of my life. Jo Malone London sweetly helped me find the perfect one: Orange Blossom. We scented the Kensington Orangery with Orange Blossom candles and diffusers, and I wore the cologne. The bottle sits happily on my bedside table; I won’t let it out of my sight. The wedding in Marrakech was scented with laughter and long, wild nights.

As told to Kate Weaver-Gibbs