Meet the Family: Lady Janelle Duah
Introducing “Meet the Family”, a new series where we dive into the stories behind our most cherished customers. At The Taliaferro, fragrance is more than just a scent—it’s a memory, a feeling, a part of who we are. In each feature, we’ll explore personal journeys, unforgettable moments, and the unique fragrance stories that define our community. We’re kicking off this series with Dr. Janelle Duah, whose inspiring journey and connection to scent perfectly embody what The Taliaferro is all about. Join us as we celebrate the wins, losses, and the scents that have made an impact on her life.
Can you share a little about your personal journey and how scent has played a role in significant moments of your life?
JD - My journey with scent has been quite the evolution! Growing up, I absolutely hated perfume. My mom would douse my sister and me in those vintage floral fragrances before any outing, and I remember feeling suffocated by the overwhelming scent of White Diamonds on the way to school. Then, as I hit puberty, I faced a different challenge: body odor. The self-consciousness and embarrassment that came with it drove me to buy all sorts of mists and low-end fragrances from clothing stores, hoping to mask any and all of my own scents. I was on a quest to find something that would make me feel more confident.But as I grew older, my relationship with fragrance transformed completely. I started exploring the vast array of notes and accords, discovering how scent could evoke emotions and memories. This exploration turned into a passion. I’ve learned to appreciate the complexity of fragrances and how they can be deeply personal and transformative. Now, I love how a single scent can transport me back to a moment in time or create new memories. What began as a struggle has blossomed into an obsession, and I now see scent as a powerful form of self-expression.
What fragrance memories stand out the most for you—whether it’s a scent tied to a special event, person, or place?
JD - Fragrance memories are some of the most vivid for me, as we know that scent is the strongest sense tied to our memory. Last year, I celebrated my birthday with Amberythme by Afnan, and it truly encapsulated that joyful moment. It felt like a perfect reflection of that time of celebration, full of warmth, spice, and sweetness. Another scent that holds a special place in my heart is Silent Knight by Maison D'abba, which I wore for my baptism last year. It was such a meaningful occasion, and the fragrance brought a sense of peace and renewal that I’ll always cherish. I also have fond memories of purchasing Hues of Her from Artem Fragrances with my perfume besties. That experience was filled with laughter and excitement, making it even more special to me. And then there’s Exalte, which is my boyfriend’s favorite scent on me. Every time I wear it, I feel an extra layer of connection and affection. Looking ahead, I’m excited to create new scent memories tied to significant milestones like my wedding, starting a new job, buying a house, and even having children. Each of these moments will surely have their own unique fragrance, and I can’t wait to see how they shape my journey!
Have there been any key challenges or victories in your life where a particular scent helped shape or symbolize that experience?
JD - Scent has played a significant role in shaping some of the key moments in my life, both as a tool for overcoming challenges and as a symbol of personal victories. When I took my Lifestyle Medicine boards, for example, I wore a fragrance composed of a scent blend of rosemary, ginger, and citrus. These essential oils are known for their aromatherapeutic benefits—especially for memory, focus, and concentration. Wearing that scent helped calm my nerves and sharpen my mental clarity, and it gave me a sense of comfort during a very challenging exam. I passed, and to this day, I associate those notes with triumph over adversity.
On a more personal and spiritual level, I recently reaffirmed my Christian faith and was baptized. The scent I wore during that moment has become a deeply symbolic fragrance for me, one that I associate with my faith journey. This experience has also sparked a deeper interest in fragrances that have any Christian symbolism or incorporate materials mentioned in the Bible, such as frankincense, myrrh, spikenark, or labdanum. These scents not only carry spiritual significance but also connect me to something greater, a constant reminder of my renewed faith.
What does fragrance mean to you on a personal level? Is it a reflection of your personality, an emotional anchor, or something else entirely?
JD - Fragrance has become an integral part of my life, far beyond just an accessory. It’s a deeply personal form of self-expression, allowing me to match my scent to the occasion, mood, weather, and the feelings they evoke. Each fragrance I choose reflects not only how I want to present myself but also how I’m experiencing the world in that moment. Whether it’s something fresh and invigorating for a productive day, warm and cozy for reflection, or bold and spicy when I want to make a statement, fragrance ALWAYS sets the tone.For me, it’s also a love language—an invisible connection to those who share the same appreciation for scent. I love buying fragrances for others and sharing newfound fragrance finds as well. It sparks conversations, draws kindred souls, and creates bonds through shared sensory experiences. Ultimately, fragrance is not just a reflection of my personality; it’s an emotional anchor, a way to make a statement, and a tool for connection, whether through nostalgia or new memories.
How do you incorporate scent into your daily life, and do you have any rituals or preferences when choosing a fragrance for specific occasions?
JD - I incorporate scent into my daily life in a variety of ways, from candles and room sprays to body mists, lotions, and perfumes. I love layering fragrances to create a mood or enhance an experience.
My routine always starts in the shower, where I use scented body washes and scrubs to set the foundation for the day. After that, I focus on moisturizing and hydrating with lotions, body butters, and oils, all chosen to complement my fragrance of the day. Once I’m prepped, I layer on body mists and perfumes to seal the scent.
For date nights, I gravitate toward woody or spicy fragrances with dark plum or rose—it feels sensual and intimate. At work, I lean toward tea-based or gourmand scents that are both elegant and comforting. For brunch or church, florals are my go-to, as they’re fresh, feminine and uplifting. At the gym, I prefer light citrus scents to keep things energizing, and for sleep, I often choose gourmand or lactonic fragrances to create a cozy, relaxing atmosphere.
Fragrance isn’t just a finishing touch for me; it’s woven into every part of my routine, helping me feel grounded, confident, and aligned with whatever the day holds.
Which of The Taliaferro scents resonates most with you, and can you share a story or memory that it evokes?
If you could describe your life’s journey in a fragrance, what notes or ingredients would it include, and why?
Special thanks to Lady Janelle Duah for giving us an opportunity to learn more about you! Thanks for your time!