Intro: In this special episode of The Scenting Guy, Jim Reding sits down with Chris Atkinson, owner of Wallpaper Elegance and next-door neighbor to Aroma Retail in Las Vegas. Together with producer Mike Hewitt, they explore how interior design and fragrance work together to create immersive experiences. From landlord shout-outs to celebrity drop-ins (yes, Floyd Mayweather), this episode highlights how scent and design elevate a space—and a business.
The Origins of a Neighborly Partnership Jim and Chris recount their history as business neighbors since 2019 in a complex owned by Santoli Real Estate. They reflect on the benefits of a fair, responsive landlord and how proximity has naturally turned into collaboration. Aroma Retail occupies most of the building now, but Wallpaper Elegance remains the stylish center.
Scents That Sell—and Tell a Story Chris discusses how scent immediately impacts customers when they enter the showroom. The Mandalay Bay Coconut Spice scent is a staple for Wallpaper Elegance because it's familiar, inviting, and triggers an emotional response. Jim explains how familiarity in fragrance can help create instant connections with customers—whether it's a scent that evokes a hotel stay or a cozy memory.
Wallpaper Elegance: More Than Just Walls Wallpaper Elegance isn't your grandma’s wallpaper store. Chris explains how the business has evolved into a full interior design center, offering wallpaper, drapery, flooring, and more. With a concierge-style approach and a highly trained team, they help customers design their space from concept to completion. It's not about selling a product; it's about solving a problem and creating an experience.
Scent Meets Style: A Seamless Blend The overlap between design and scent is more than sensory—it’s strategic. Just as Wallpaper Elegance curates visuals, Aroma Retail curates olfactory environments. Together, they demonstrate how scent and style complement each other in creating luxury environments for homes and businesses alike.
Shared Values, Shared Success Both businesses emphasize customer understanding, customization, and experience as core to their model. Jim notes that like scent, wallpaper is subjective, tactile, and often deeply personal. Chris adds that educating customers is part of the job—and both companies excel in it.
Local Love & Lasting Impact As local Vegas businesses, they share pride in supporting the community and being part of a growing, diversifying economy. From tailgating in the parking lot to customer referrals, the camaraderie is real. Chris even hints at future expansion and spin-off businesses focused on commercial installation.
Conclusion: A Perfect Match Whether it’s fabric, wallpaper, or fragrance, both businesses believe in designing with intention. As Chris puts it, "You gotta look good and smell good." And with this duo, your space can do both.
Smell you later, alligator. Go fragrance yourselves.
