There’s a small business in Westerville that should be packed with customers. It has an incredible selection, a passionate owner, and a shopping experience that feels personal and special in a way big retailers can’t match. But instead of thriving, it’s barely holding on.
Some days, no one walks in at all.
Mon Senteur, a locally owned fragrance boutique, has everything it needs to succeed — except enough customers to keep the doors open. And that’s not just frustrating — it’s heartbreaking, because after stepping inside and meeting Mon Senteur’s owner Roldan, it’s impossible not to root for him.
I walked in knowing absolutely nothing about fragrances. My knowledge started and ended at “smells good” and “smells bad.”
I walked out with three handpicked scents, a new appreciation for the art of perfume, and a deep urge to tell everyone I know about this place. And if you read this and don’t at least consider stopping by, you might be missing out on something truly special.
After all, what’s more special than being able to say you helped save a small business, all while meeting one of the kindest souls in Columbus?
Here’s why this shop deserves a fighting chance.
“Roldan is a gem of a human, and I’m rooting for him. You should too.”
My Scented Journey Begins
As soon as I walked into Mon Senteur, I was greeted by the owner, Roldan Kreais, who stepped out from the back and immediately made me feel welcome. I admitted, without hesitation, that I had no clue what I was looking for. No favorite notes, no idea what scents I gravitated toward, just pure, unfiltered cluelessness.
Instead of making me feel out of place, Roldan made the entire experience fun and exciting. Like, really fun and exciting. He guided me through different fragrances, taking note of my reactions, and genuinely wanted to hear my thoughts, good or bad. “Be honest,” he told me. “You won’t hurt my feelings.”
Slowly but surely, I started to get it. Floral? Too sweet for me. Woody? Now we’re talking. Citrusy with a hint of spice? Maybe… Roldan patiently walked me through every step, explaining the notes, the stories behind the scents, which ones most people gravitate towards and why, and what makes each one unique.
The Magic of Finding Your Scent
After testing multiple options, I settled on three fragrances. Each one was completely different, yet somehow perfect. And, not to brag, but Roldan even mentioned that my picks would impress a true fragrance expert.
Not bad for someone who walked in knowing nothing!
What struck me the most, though, wasn’t just the incredible selection or the expertise. It was Roldan’s genuine passion for helping people find their scent. He wasn’t pushy, didn’t rush the process, and was more than willing to let me test every single fragrance in the store if that’s what it took. All to help me find a scent that would leave me feeling confident and happy.
A Store That Deserves More Love
Before I left, I asked Roldan about his business. He told me Mon Senteur has been open for just over a year, and honestly, I was shocked. His knowledge, his selection… Everything felt like the work of someone who had been in business forever.
But the reality? That first year was tough. Slow business, a struggle to get the word out… but lately, things have been picking up, and he’s hopeful.
If there’s one thing that I know is true, it’s this: If anyone deserves success, it’s Roldan.
Don’t just take it from me. Take it from the countless 5-star reviews on Google, all of which praise his customer service, fragrance knowledge, and friendliness.
“Roldan was the nicest guy I think I’ve ever met and was super helpful and knowledgeable about everything in the store” — Aj Moarefdoust on Google Reviews
“The owner is very knowledgeable about the quality products he sells. He has several of the newer lines and is so personable. I will definitely go back!” — Ginger on Google Reviews
So if you’ve ever wanted to find the perfect fragrance for yourself or a partner — whether you know what you like or are a total newbie like me — go check out Mon Senteur at 8290 Sancus Blvd, Westerville, OH.
Roldan is a gem of a human, and I’m rooting for him. You should too. Please support this small business and discover a scent that’s uniquely you.