Today we’d like to introduce you to Sydney Bell.
Hi Sydney, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Like many small business owners, my journey started with a simple idea and a willingness to take a chance. I’ve always loved creating memorable experiences and bringing people together, and I wanted to build something that allowed people to express themselves in a unique way.
That passion eventually became Made Scents, a mobile perfume bar where guests can create their own custom fragrances at weddings, corporate events, private parties, community gatherings, and more. What started as an idea has grown into a business that allows us to be part of some of life’s biggest celebrations while helping people create lasting memories through scent.
One of the things I’m most proud of is seeing how much joy our perfume bar brings to people. It’s more than just making perfume, it’s about creating an experience where guests laugh, connect, and leave with something that reminds them of a special moment.
Today, my goal is to continue growing Made Scents throughout North Carolina and beyond while creating luxury fragrance experiences that are approachable, interactive, and unforgettable. Every event teaches me something new, and I’m excited to keep building a brand that brings people together, one custom scent at a time.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Starting a business while raising my daughter and planning a wedding has definitely come with its challenges. There have been plenty of late nights preparing inventory, responding to inquiries, and getting ready for events after finishing my regular day. Learning how to balance family, work, and entrepreneurship has been one of the biggest lessons.
Another challenge has been building trust as a newer business. Because our concept is unique, we’ve had to educate potential clients on what a mobile perfume bar is and the value of creating an interactive fragrance experience. We’ve also learned the importance of setting clear business policies, pricing our services appropriately, and creating systems that allow us to provide a consistent, high-quality experience for every client.
Despite the challenges, every obstacle has helped us grow. Each event teaches us something new, strengthens our processes, and reminds us why we started. Seeing guests leave with smiles, custom fragrances they created themselves, and lasting memories makes every late night and challenge worth it.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
While working a full-time job, my passion has always been creating memorable experiences that bring people together. That passion led me to co-found Made Scents with my fiancé, turning a simple idea into a business centered around creativity, connection, and celebration.
We specialize in mobile perfume bar experiences for weddings, corporate events, private parties, and community gatherings. Every event is customized to fit the client’s vision, from the fragrance selection to the overall presentation, giving guests the opportunity to create a scent that’s uniquely their own.
What I’m most proud of is building a business that has grown through genuine relationships, repeat clients, and word of mouth. There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing people light up when they create a fragrance they love or hearing that we’ve helped make their event unforgettable.
Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
Having lived in larger cities like Chicago and Nashville, one of the things I appreciate most about Raleigh is that it offers the perfect balance of growth and community. It’s a city that’s expanding quickly, but it still feels welcoming, family-oriented, and connected.
I love how supportive people are of local businesses. When a new business or event launches, the community genuinely shows up, and that kind of support is something that’s really special. Raleigh also has a way of creating intimate, meaningful experiences without feeling overcrowded or oversaturated. There’s room for entrepreneurs, creatives, and major companies to grow together, and it’s exciting to be part of that.
If I had to choose one thing I’d like to see improve, it would be even more opportunities and visibility for small businesses. Raleigh has incredible local talent, and I think continuing to create spaces where entrepreneurs can connect, collaborate, and be discovered will only make the city even stronger.
Pricing:
- Mobile Perfume Bar Experiences: Starting at $150/hour (2-hour minimum)
- Private Events: Packages start at $300
- Corporate Events & Weddings: Custom packages available based on guest count and event needs
- Perfume Bottles: Available in 5 mL, 10 mL, and 30 mL options
- Custom Branding & Labels: Available as an optional add-on
Contact Info:
- Instagram: madescents.pb
