Everything You Need to Know Before Placing Your Order

Welcome to Aspiring Aromas!

At Aspiring Aromas, we believe that creating beautiful fragrances and luxurious body care products is about more than the finished product. It's about the care, creativity, and attention to detail that go into every step of the process.

As a small, independently operated business, many of our products are handcrafted in carefully managed batches rather than mass produced.

We've created this FAQ to help answer common questions about our products, processing times, shipping procedures, and customer service policies.

PLEASE READ OUR FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS AND POLICIES CAREFULLY BEFORE PLACING YOUR ORDER.

By completing a purchase, you acknowledge the policies and processing timelines presented during checkout, subject to applicable consumer protection laws.

SECTION 1: ORDER PROCESSING & SHIPPING

1. What Are Your Processing and Shipping Times?

At Aspiring Aromas, we take pride in creating handcrafted fragrances and luxury body care products with attention to detail and quality.

Unlike traditional retailers that primarily ship premanufactured inventory, many of our products require production, preparation, quality inspections, and packaging before they are ready for shipment.

Our preorder and made to order products are fulfilled according to the processing timeframe advertised at the time of purchase.

While we always work toward completing orders as quickly as possible, we ask customers to allow the full advertised timeframe.

What Happens During Processing?

Depending on the products ordered, processing may include:

• Preparing and manufacturing fragrance or body care batches.

• Allowing certain formulations to rest, cool, or stabilize.

• Filling and labeling product containers.

• Conducting quality inspections.

• Preparing protective packaging.

• Coordinating fulfillment between our two locations.

• Preparing orders for carrier pickup.

These steps help us maintain consistency and quality throughout our production process.

Important Processing Information

Please keep the following in mind:

• Processing times exclude weekends and observed holidays.

• Processing timelines may vary during major releases, restocks, and promotional events.

• Orders containing multiple products may require additional production coordination.

• Processing times are separate from carrier transit times.

• The timeframe displayed when you place your order is the timeframe applicable to your purchase.

An order is not considered delayed simply because it has not shipped immediately or because a shipping label has already been created.

As long as your order remains within the advertised processing and shipping timeframe, it is still considered on schedule.

We kindly ask customers to place orders only if they are comfortable with the stated waiting period.

2. What Is the Difference Between Processing Time and Shipping Time?

Processing time and shipping time are two different stages of order fulfillment.

Processing Time

Processing refers to the time our team needs to prepare your order before it is transferred to a shipping carrier.

This includes production, quality control, labeling, packaging, and fulfillment preparation.

For preorder and made to order products, this is typically 2–6 weeks or sooner, unless another timeframe is advertised.

Shipping Time

Shipping transit time begins once your package has physically been transferred to and accepted by the shipping carrier.

Once the carrier receives your package, delivery timing depends on the selected shipping service, destination, weather conditions, and carrier operations.

Please Note: A tracking number or shipping label does not necessarily mean your package has shipped.

Carrier transit estimates should not be confused with our advertised order processing timeframe.

3. Do You Have Multiple Fulfillment Centers?

Yes!

Aspiring Aromas operates two fulfillment centers: one in Georgia (GA) and one in Pennsylvania (PA).

Our products may be handcrafted, prepared, packaged, and shipped from either location.

Having two fulfillment centers allows our team to coordinate production and inventory while maintaining the attention to detail our products require.

Why Did I Receive Only Part of My Order?

Depending on the products purchased, your order may be fulfilled from both locations.

For example, your perfume and Dry Body Oil may ship from Georgia, while your Dream Cream or other body care products may ship separately from Pennsylvania.

This means items purchased together may arrive in separate packages and on different delivery dates.

Receiving only part of your order does not automatically mean that an item is missing or that the remaining products have been forgotten.

The remainder of your order may still be in production, undergoing quality inspections, or awaiting shipment from our other fulfillment center.

Will I Receive Separate Tracking Numbers?

Yes. If your order ships in multiple packages, you may receive a separate tracking number and shipping notification for each shipment.

Each package may have its own carrier acceptance date and estimated delivery date.

Will My Packages Arrive Together?

Not necessarily.

Because our fulfillment centers operate independently, one package may arrive before another.

As long as the remaining items are within the advertised processing timeframe, your order is still on track.

Will I Be Charged Extra Shipping Fees?

No. You will not be charged additional shipping fees solely because we fulfill your order from two locations.

For international orders, our standard international shipping policy and any applicable carrier rate adjustments still apply.

We appreciate your patience as our Georgia and Pennsylvania teams work together to fulfill your order.

4. Why Did I Receive a Tracking Number If My Order Hasn't Shipped?

To maintain an organized and efficient fulfillment process, Aspiring Aromas prints shipping labels in batches.

This allows our team to prepare shipping documentation while orders move through production, packaging, and final fulfillment.

As a result, you may receive a tracking number or automated shipping notification before your package physically leaves our warehouse.

IMPORTANT: THE CREATION OF A SHIPPING LABEL DOES NOT MEAN YOUR PACKAGE HAS SHIPPED.

Your order may still be undergoing production, quality inspections, packaging, or final shipping preparations.

Does This Mean My Order Is Delayed?

No.

If your order is still within the processing timeframe advertised at the time of purchase, it is considered on schedule.

For example, if your order has a 2–6 week processing timeframe and a shipping label is created during week two, that does not mean your order is late or that it should already be in transit.

We kindly ask customers to allow the full advertised timeframe.

Why Does My Tracking Show an Estimated Delivery Date?

Shipping carriers may automatically generate an estimated delivery date when a label is created.

These estimates are often based on the label creation date rather than the date the carrier physically receives the package.

Please disregard carrier generated delivery estimates until your package has officially been accepted and scanned by the shipping carrier.

A preliminary estimated delivery date does not override our advertised processing timeframe.

When Will I Receive an Official Shipping Update?

You will receive an official shipping update once your package has physically left our warehouse and is in transit with the carrier.

Tracking information should begin reflecting movement after carrier acceptance.

Please allow approximately 24–72 hours after carrier acceptance for tracking updates to appear.

If your order is shipping from both fulfillment centers, you may receive separate updates for each package.

SECTION 2: INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING

5. Do You Ship Internationally?

Yes!

Aspiring Aromas proudly offers international shipping to eligible destinations.

International shipping is charged at a flat rate of $34.00 USD at checkout.

Because international shipping costs fluctuate, the actual carrier rate may vary depending on the destination, package weight, dimensions, and shipping service available.

To provide transparency, we use the following shipping adjustment policy.

If Your Actual Shipping Cost Is Less Than $34.00

If the final shipping cost is lower than the $34.00 flat fee, we will refund the difference.

Example: If the actual shipping cost is $27.00, you will receive a $7.00 refund.

Refunds are issued to the original payment method after the final shipping cost is confirmed.

Please allow your financial institution's standard processing time for the refund to appear.

If Your Actual Shipping Cost Exceeds $34.00

If the actual shipping cost exceeds $34.00 by $5.00 or more, we will issue an additional invoice for the difference.

For example:

IMPORTANT: Additional Shipping Invoice Requirements

If additional shipping payment is required, your order will be placed on hold until the invoice is paid.

PAYMENT MUST BE RECEIVED WITHIN 24 HOURS OF THE INVOICE BEING ISSUED.

If payment is not received within this timeframe, your order will be automatically canceled.

Any applicable refund will be processed in accordance with our policies and applicable laws.

We encourage international customers to monitor their email, including spam and junk folders, for shipping related communications.

Please Note: The $34.00 shipping fee does not include customs duties, VAT, import taxes, or other destination specific charges.

6. Who Is Responsible for Customs, Duties, and Import Taxes?

International customers are responsible for understanding their country's import regulations and paying any applicable customs duties, VAT, import taxes, or additional government imposed charges.

These fees are separate from the shipping charges collected by Aspiring Aromas.

Customers are responsible for:

• Reviewing local import regulations before ordering.

• Confirming that purchased products are permitted for import.

• Paying applicable customs duties and taxes.

• Providing accurate shipping and contact information.

• Responding to customs or carrier requests.

• Accepting delivery and paying any required import charges.

Aspiring Aromas does not control customs processing, import restrictions, or government-imposed fees.

Packages may be inspected, delayed, held, returned, or refused by customs authorities.

If a customer refuses delivery, does not pay applicable import charges, or fails to claim a shipment, refunds or replacements may be unavailable, except where required by law.

We recommend contacting your local customs authority before placing an international order.

7. How Long Does International Shipping Take?

International shipping timelines vary by destination, carrier, and customs procedures.

Once your package has been transferred to the carrier, delays may occur due to customs inspections, international transportation, weather conditions, local delivery operations, or import restrictions.

International delivery dates are estimates and are not guaranteed.

Our advertised processing timeframe refers to preparing and dispatching your order.

International transit and customs clearance may require additional time after shipment.

SECTION 3: PACKAGE PROTECTION

8. What Is Route Package Protection?

Aspiring Aromas offers optional Route Package Protection at checkout.

We strongly recommend selecting Route Protection, particularly for international orders.

Depending on Route's terms, eligible incidents may include:

• Packages lost during transit.

• Packages marked delivered but missing.

• Packages damaged during shipping.

All claims are subject to Route's coverage requirements and approval process.

If You Purchase Route Protection

Eligible shipping claims should be submitted directly through Route.

If You Decline Route Protection

Your order will not have coverage through Route.

You may need to pursue eligible carrier related claims directly with the shipping carrier.

Aspiring Aromas responsibility for shipping related issues remains subject to applicable consumer protection laws.

Please Note: Route Protection does not necessarily cover customs fees, import taxes, customs seizures, or all shipping delays.

SECTION 4: CANCELLATIONS & ORDER MODIFICATIONS

9. What Is Your Cancellation Policy?

ALL SALES ARE FINAL, SUBJECT TO APPLICABLE LAW.

Because our products are handcrafted and often made to order, Aspiring Aromas provides customers with a 4-hour cancellation window beginning immediately when an order is placed.

This policy applies to orders placed during business hours, after business hours, on weekends, and during observed holidays.

How Does the 4-Hour Cancellation Window Work?

Customers must email their cancellation or modification request within 4 hours of the original purchase time.

The cancellation window does not pause, extend, or restart outside business hours.

However, we understand that customers may place orders while our support team is unavailable.

If your order is placed after business hours, on a weekend, or during a holiday, your cancellation will still be honored as long as your email is submitted within the original 4-hour timeframe.

Your request will be processed when our customer support team returns on the next business day.

Cancellation Examples

All times are Eastern Time (ET).

Business days are Monday through Friday, excluding observed holidays.

IMPORTANT: Cancellation Emails Must Be Submitted Within 4 Hours

ALL CANCELLATION AND MODIFICATION REQUESTS MUST BE EMAILED TO help@aspiringaromas.com WITHIN 4 HOURS OF PLACING YOUR ORDER.

Please include your full name and order number.

The timestamp of your email will be used to determine whether your request was submitted within the permitted timeframe.

Please Remember:

• Requests submitted after the 4-hour deadline will not be accepted, except where required by law.

• The cancellation window does not restart when business hours resume.

• Our customer support team does not need to respond within the 4-hour window for your request to remain eligible.

• Timely cancellation requests will be honored and processed during regular business operations.

• Receiving an order confirmation or shipping label notification does not change the cancellation deadline.

The 4-hour deadline refers to when you must SEND your cancellation email, not when our team responds or completes the cancellation.

What Happens After the Cancellation Window?

Once the 4-hour cancellation period expires, orders cannot be canceled or modified at the customer's request.

This includes changes to fragrance selections, product sizes, or other purchased items.

Separate orders cannot be combined.

This policy applies to ready to ship, preorder, and made to order products.

10. Can I Combine Multiple Orders?

Unfortunately, we do not combine separate orders.

Each purchase is processed individually and assigned its own fulfillment information.

If you place multiple orders, they may be prepared and shipped separately.

Shipping fees associated with separate orders are not automatically combined or refunded.

We recommend reviewing your cart carefully before completing checkout.

11. I Forgot to Apply My Discount Code. Can It Be Added Later?

Unfortunately, discount codes cannot be applied retroactively to completed purchases.

If you forget to apply a promotional code, you may place a new order using the correct code and email our customer support team to request cancellation of your original order.

Your cancellation email must be submitted within 4 hours of placing the original order.

Please understand that promotional codes and product availability are subject to change.

SECTION 5: FRAGRANCE INFORMATION & CARE

12. What Is Mail Shock?

Mail shock is a commonly used term describing temporary changes in how a fragrance smells after exposure to temperature fluctuations during shipping.

A fragrance may initially smell softer, muted, or slightly different from its usual scent profile.

This may be especially noticeable in fragrances containing rich gourmand notes such as vanilla, marshmallow, sugar, and musk.

What Should I Do?

We recommend allowing your fragrance to rest in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures for several days before evaluating its scent.

Some fragrances may continue to develop and mature over time.

However, resting does not guarantee that a fragrance will become stronger or smell different.

Individual scent perception, skin chemistry, and fragrance composition also influence how a fragrance smells and performs.

13. What Ingredients Are Used in Your Fragrances?

Our fragrances are developed using carefully selected natural and synthetic aromatic materials.

Depending on the individual formulation, ingredients may include:

• Natural and synthetic fragrance compounds.

• Vanilla and gourmand aromatic materials.

• Musks and other fragrance ingredients.

• Solvents and diluents.

• Professional grade perfumer's alcohol.

Each fragrance has its own unique composition, and not every ingredient is used in every product.

Customers with known allergies or sensitivities should review the applicable product ingredient information before use.

14. What Is the Difference Between Eau de Parfum and Extrait de Parfum?

Aspiring Aromas offers fragrances in different concentrations depending on the product.

Eau de Parfum (EDP)

Our Eau de Parfum fragrances generally contain approximately 15–20% fragrance concentrate, depending on the formulation.

EDPs are developed to provide a balanced fragrance experience.

Extrait de Parfum

Our Extrait de Parfum fragrances contain a higher concentration of aromatic materials.

Certain Extrait formulations contain approximately 30–33% fragrance concentrate.

These fragrances are designed to provide a richer and more concentrated scent experience.

Please Note: A higher fragrance concentration does not automatically guarantee stronger projection or longer wear.

Fragrance performance depends on composition, individual ingredients, skin chemistry, environmental conditions, and application.

15. How Can I Make My Fragrance Last Longer?

Fragrance longevity varies from person to person.

Factors such as skin chemistry, hydration, temperature, application, and fragrance composition can influence how long a scent remains noticeable.

Layering complementary body care products may help create a richer fragrance experience.

Our Recommended Layering Routine

1. Begin with clean, moisturized skin.

2. Apply your preferred Dream Cream or Dry Body Oil.

3. Allow the product to absorb.

4. Apply your perfume to your preferred pulse points.

5. Reapply as desired, following the product's usage instructions.

Please Note: Layering may enhance the overall scent experience, but individual results will vary.

SECTION 6: BODY CARE PRODUCTS

16. Why Does My Dream Cream Smell Softer Than My Perfume?

Our Dream Cream Luxury Body Creams are carefully formulated to provide a luxurious moisturizing experience while complementing your favorite Aspiring Aromas fragrances.

Although our Dream Creams are scented, they are primarily skincare products.

Unlike perfumes, body creams are leave on cosmetic products that require different fragrance safety considerations.

When developing our formulations, we follow applicable International Fragrance Association (IFRA) standards and fragrance usage restrictions for the intended product category.

These standards help establish appropriate fragrance ingredient concentrations based on product type and potential skin exposure.

Because Dream Creams are applied directly to the skin, certain fragrance materials have specific maximum permitted usage levels.

We cannot simply increase fragrance concentrations to make a Dream Cream stronger without considering applicable safety restrictions.

Why Are Dream Creams Designed for Layering?

Our Dream Creams are intended to provide a moisturizing foundation that complements your favorite perfume.

Rather than competing with your fragrance, the cream adds another dimension to your overall scent experience.

Does a Softer Scent Mean My Dream Cream Is Defective?

No. A softer scent does not automatically mean your Dream Cream is defective, improperly formulated, or missing fragrance.

Fragrance intensity may vary based on:

• The individual fragrance composition.

• Applicable IFRA usage restrictions.

• Ingredients used in the cream base.

• Individual scent perception.

• Skin chemistry.

• Temperature and storage conditions.

Certain vanilla, marshmallow, musk, and other gourmand fragrances may naturally create a softer, closer to the skin scent experience.

Our Dream Creams are luxury body moisturizers first, with fragrance thoughtfully incorporated to enhance the skincare experience.

We will never intentionally compromise our fragrance safety standards simply to achieve a stronger scent.

Individual sensitivities can still occur, so we recommend patch testing before full application.

Why Has My Dream Cream Changed Color?

At Aspiring Aromas, many of our Dream Creams feature rich, decadent fragrance profiles containing vanilla, marshmallow, caramel, and other gourmand notes.

Certain vanilla derived fragrance ingredients, particularly vanillin and ethyl vanillin, can naturally cause discoloration in cosmetic formulations over time.

Why Does This Happen?

Vanillin and ethyl vanillin are aromatic ingredients commonly used to create the warm, sweet, creamy vanilla notes found in many of our fragrances.

When incorporated into body creams, these ingredients may gradually undergo chemical changes, including oxidation, that can affect the appearance of the finished product.

As a result, a Dream Cream that was originally white or ivory may gradually develop a:

• Creamy yellow, orange or beige tint

• Light tan or caramel appearance

• Deeper golden or brown coloration

The degree of discoloration depends on the fragrance composition, concentration of vanilla related materials, storage conditions, and length of time since production.

Some Dream Creams may experience noticeable color changes, while others may show very little discoloration.

Does Discoloration Mean My Dream Cream Has Gone Bad?

Not necessarily.

When caused by vanilla related fragrance ingredients, gradual and uniform discoloration is a known characteristic of certain cosmetic formulations.

A change in color alone does not automatically mean your Dream Cream is spoiled, defective, or unsafe to use.

However, discoloration should not be confused with other signs of product deterioration.

If you notice an unusual or unpleasant odor, visible mold, significant separation, or unexpected changes in texture, please discontinue use and contact our customer support team.

Will Every Dream Cream Change Color?

No.

Because each fragrance has its own unique composition, the amount and degree of discoloration may vary.

Dream Creams containing higher levels of certain vanilla related fragrance materials may develop a more noticeable color change than those containing little or none.

Even products made from the same fragrance may show slight differences in color depending on their age and storage conditions.

How Should I Store My Dream Cream?

To help maintain product quality, we recommend:

• Storing your Dream Cream in a cool, dry location.

• Keeping the container tightly closed when not in use.

• Avoiding prolonged exposure to direct sunlight and excessive heat.

• Using clean, dry hands or a cosmetic spatula when dispensing the product.

• Following the product's recommended shelf life and storage instructions.

Please Note: Proper storage may help preserve product quality, but it cannot always prevent vanilla-related discoloration.

A Note From Aspiring Aromas

Our Dream Creams are handcrafted with carefully selected ingredients, and natural variations in appearance are part of working with certain fragrance materials.

We do not consider gradual, uniform vanilla related discoloration alone to be a product defect.

Our priority is to create luxurious, beautifully scented body care products while maintaining appropriate quality and safety standards.

A little change in color doesn't necessarily mean a change in quality.

17. Why Does My Dry Body Oil Have Crystals or Floating Particles?

Certain fragrance materials used in our Dry Body Oils may naturally crystallize, become cloudy, or form small particles when exposed to cooler temperatures.

This may occur during shipping or storage and does not necessarily indicate a defective product.

How to Address Crystallization

Step 1 — Prepare Hot Water

Bring a pot of water to a boil, then turn off the heat and remove it from the burner.

Step 2 — Secure the Bottle

Ensure your Dry Body Oil bottle is tightly closed.

Step 3 — Warm the Bottle

Place the sealed bottle upright in the hot water for approximately 10 minutes, keeping the cap and pump above the waterline.

Step 4 — Allow the Crystals to Dissolve

The gentle warmth may help soften and dissolve crystallized fragrance materials.

Step 5 — Gently Shake

Remove the bottle from the water and gently shake once or twice.

Step 6 — Cool Before Use

Allow the oil to return to room temperature before applying it to your skin.

Important Safety Information

Never place the bottle in boiling water, heat it directly on a stove, or microwave the product.

Excessive heat may damage the packaging or affect fragrance quality.

Crystallization may reoccur when the product is exposed to cooler temperatures.

If you notice unusual discoloration, an unpleasant odor, persistent separation, or crystals that do not dissolve after gentle warming, discontinue use and contact customer support.

18. Why Did My Body Care Product Change Texture During Shipping?

Our handcrafted body care products contain carefully selected oils, butters, waxes, emulsifiers, and other cosmetic ingredients.

Temperature fluctuations during shipping may occasionally affect their appearance or consistency.

Depending on the formulation, you may notice:

• Softening or partial melting.

• Air pockets or settling.

• Minor changes in thickness.

• Changes in whipped volume.

• Slight texture differences.

These changes do not automatically indicate a defective product.

Our products are filled according to their stated net weight, not the visual fill line of the container.

What Should I Do If My Product Arrives Softened?

Allow the product to gradually return to room temperature.

For certain butter based products, brief refrigeration may help restore firmness, although the original whipped texture may not return.

For emulsified creams, avoid extreme temperatures, repeated freezing, or overheating.

If your product arrives leaking, visibly separated, or with an unusual odor or appearance, please contact us within 7 days of delivery.

19. Why Does My Handmade Product Look Slightly Different?

Because our products are handcrafted in small batches, minor variations may occur between batches.

These can include slight differences in color, thickness, texture, shimmer distribution, or settling.

Such variations are normal characteristics of handmade products and do not automatically indicate a defect.

All products are filled according to their stated net weight using appropriate measuring equipment.

SECTION 7: PRODUCT QUALITY & CUSTOMER CARE

20. What Are Your Quality and Safety Standards?

At Aspiring Aromas, product quality and customer safety are important parts of our development and production process.

Our products are handcrafted in small batches using carefully selected ingredients.

We aim to follow applicable cosmetic safety requirements and relevant IFRA guidance when developing scented products.

Our production process emphasizes:

• Ingredient suitability.

• Product stability.

• Fragrance balance.

• Consistency and quality control.

• Appropriate product handling.

• Overall customer experience.

Because our products are handmade, minor batch to batch differences may occur.

We continually evaluate our formulations and production methods to maintain the quality our customers expect.

21. What If I Have Sensitive Skin?

Individual skin sensitivities and allergic reactions can vary.

We recommend:

• Performing a patch test before full application.

• Avoiding application to broken or irritated skin.

• Reviewing ingredient information if you have known allergies.

• Discontinuing use if irritation occurs.

• Following all product specific instructions and warnings.

If you experience persistent or significant irritation, seek guidance from an appropriate healthcare professional.

Please Note: Both natural and synthetic fragrance ingredients may cause sensitivities in some individuals.

22. What If My Order Arrives Damaged, Incorrect, or Missing an Item?

We take great care when inspecting and packaging orders. However, we understand that occasional issues may arise.

If your order arrives damaged, defective, incorrect, or missing an item, please contact us within 7 days of delivery.

Email: help@aspiringaromas.com

Please include:

• Your full name.

• Your order number.

• A detailed description of the issue.

• Clear photographs or videos, when applicable.

Our team will review your concern and determine an appropriate resolution in accordance with our policies and applicable laws.

Important Information About Split Shipments

Because Aspiring Aromas operates two fulfillment centers, some orders may arrive in multiple packages.

Before reporting a missing item, please review your shipping notifications and tracking information to determine whether the remaining products are being shipped separately.

Please Note: Reporting an issue does not automatically guarantee a refund, replacement, or exchange.

23. How Can I Contact Customer Support?

Our customer support team is available Monday through Friday, excluding observed holidays.

Email: help@aspiringaromas.com

Response Time: Please allow 1–3 business days for a response.

During product launches, restocks, and periods of high order volume, response times may be slightly longer.

We respond to inquiries in the order they are received.

To help us assist customers efficiently, we kindly ask that you avoid sending multiple emails regarding the same issue.

We sincerely appreciate your patience while our team works through customer requests.

A FINAL NOTE FROM ASPIRING AROMAS

At Aspiring Aromas, we are passionate about creating beautiful fragrances and luxurious handcrafted body care products.

Every fragrance, cream, and body care product represents our creativity, dedication, and commitment to providing a memorable experience.

As a small business, every order represents the trust and support of our customers, and we never take that for granted.

From our fulfillment centers in Georgia and Pennsylvania, our team works diligently to ensure that every product receives the care, attention, and craftsmanship it deserves.

We understand that waiting for handcrafted products requires patience, and we genuinely appreciate your understanding as we carefully prepare each order.

Thank you for supporting Aspiring Aromas, believing in our vision, and allowing us to share our creativity and passion with you.

With sincere appreciation,
The Aspiring Aromas Team