Christine Almeida is an interior decorator by profession and she knows that visuals are important but the sense of smell can equally lend a hand in setting an ambiance. So three years ago, after learning about essential oils, she opened Vscential. It all began with selling essential oils to California Wow Fitness & Yoga, and now she’s expanded her line to aromatic French lavender bouquets, fresh flowers, silk flowers, and handmade flowers – her best sellers.
She commissions local artisans from the famous Bat Trang Ceramic & Pottery Village in Hanoi to design and produce their ceramic oil burners, all completely handmade.
“We sell unique and quality products that other stores don’t have like aroma diffusers, a collection of essential oils, scented candles, and 100 percent essential oil candles,” says Christine.
With 45 different types of essential oils available, there’s a scent for everyone. And if you’re worried about leaving the flame burning overnight, you can opt for an electric burner. Choose any from their intricately designed lights or lamps.
Oi’s Pick: Peppermint Pure Essential in a ceramic aroma burner (prices start at VND 100,000 for the pure essential oil and VND 60,000 for the burner)
The peppermint smell conjures up images of candy canes hanging on Christmas trees, and peppermint is said to help increase memory and alertness.
Vscential
238B Pasteur, D3
www.vscential.com