Then comes the fun part: “Fragrance houses have a flavor division. Oftentimes we tap into the flavorist as we develop scent,” said Rosen.

The intent is to have a scent create a visceral moment for the user: “We have a Merry Cookie candle this year with notes of freshly baked cookies, vanilla and sparkling sugar. It really makes your mouth water when you smell it,” she said.

— Read more in Inventing the scent of Christmas: How Bath & Body Works comes up with its annual slew of holiday products at CNN.