Self-explanatory.

I'm new to straight-razor shaving -- I haven't even bought anything yet -- and I'm pretty shameless about smelling bath soap and shampoo at the supermarket, but was wondering whether there are any suggestions or caveats about burying one's nose in a $20 cannister of shaving cream.

Also, does anyone know a shop or storefront that is liberal with samples? What's the best way to go about getting a nice handful of stuff when one buys nothing or relatively little?