Some friendships aren’t measured in years but in shared adventures—and ours spans more than five decades! Just this past week, three dear friends and I—together through 51 years of life’s ups and downs—set out on another journey. Some of us met as teenagers, others after marriage and kids, but somehow, we all clicked. Over the years, we’ve built something lasting: laughter, comfort, and countless memories. They say if you can count your lifelong friends on one hand, you’re blessed. We certainly are.

On the Road Again

Before heading out, I gave my SUV a good cleaning—windows washed, carpets vacuumed, everything in its place. The finishing touch was my Belle Aroma® Aromatherapy Scent Pendant, a handcrafted ceramic lotus nestled inside a delicate filigree locket. I added a few drops of lavender essential oil, and the fragrance began to bloom softly as I tied it to my rearview mirror with its light green satin ribbon. Elegant, understated, and effortlessly calming—just what I needed for a road trip with a carload of best friends, ready for adventure.

Once we were all together, we headed toward Illinois, with our first official stop—by popular demand—at White Castle in St. Louis. When we climbed back into the car, it smelled wonderful. The pendant had been quietly at work, diffusing a gentle lavender scent warmed by the afternoon sun. Lavender has long been known to calm nerves and ease stress, and I can attest—it made our trip through city traffic positively peaceful.

Retailer Takeaway: Aromatherapy on the Go

As we pulled up to our destination, the car still carried that soft hint of lavender—proof that a little calm can travel anywhere. It got me thinking: for retailers, the Aromatherapy Scent Pendant offers customers that same sense of simple, everyday comfort.

For your in-store customers, the Aromatherapy Scent Pendant is the kind of little luxury that catches the eye—and keeps them coming back. It’s an easy impulse buy that adds beauty, fragrance, and calm to everyday moments.

• Artisan-made: Each pendant is handcrafted, so no two are exactly alike—a small piece of art that doubles as a personal diffuser.
• Compact with strong margins: Its small footprint makes it perfect for displays near checkout or in a curated gift section.
• Versatile and calming: Ideal for cars, closets, or office spaces—anywhere a touch of tranquility is welcome.
• Giftable and refillable: Each kit includes a ceramic diffuser, satin ribbon, and lavender or peppermint essential oil dropper. Customers can easily refresh with their favorite oils for long-lasting use.

As shoppers start planning spring road trips and family getaways, this elegant, stress-soothing accessory fits beautifully into gift, spa, and boutique environments—proof that a little calm really can go wherever you do.

Exploring Arthur, Illinois

Our next stop took us to the charming Amish and Mennonite community of Arthur, Illinois, about an hour away. The countryside was postcard-perfect—white fences, tidy barns, and fields dotted with barn quilts. The enclosed buggies were a unique sight, quite different from the open ones I’m used to seeing in Missouri.

We spent the day visiting quilt shops, antique stores, and small-town gift shops before having lunch at Yoder’s. The service was warm and welcoming, and the food was pure Midwest comfort. From the breaded pork tenderloin sandwich to the strawberry rhubarb pie, it was nostalgia on a plate. I even picked up a small Amish cookbook—can’t wait to try those recipes at home.

A Treasure in Taylorville

Our next stop was Taylorville, Illinois, where the recently restored town square proudly showcases its historic architecture. My favorite find was the Fur Love Charitable Resale Shoppe, a volunteer-run gem where proceeds support local charities, domestic violence centers, and animal rescues.

I couldn’t resist the vintage dishware—my weakness—but shopping there felt good, knowing every purchase helps the community. For anyone visiting, it’s well worth the stop. And yes, there’s even a “man cave” in the basement for the guys to explore!

Retailers: Stock Up Before the Season

Whether your shop is a boutique, gift store, spa, grocery, hardware, or general store, the Belle Aroma® Aromatherapy Scent Pendant is a beautiful way to bring a little calm and craftsmanship to your customers.

As travel and shopping seasons approach, customers will be looking for meaningful, sensory gifts—something that feels special, personal, and uplifting. This pendant delivers all that and more, supporting artisan craftsmanship while encouraging repeat sales.

So before your customers set off on their own adventures, make sure your shelves are stocked and ready.

Lori Herr for Belle Aroma® Brand