There may have been a Bulbophyllum phalaenopsis on display, that one in bloom can small pretty bad. But most other Orchids besides certain Bulbos smell downright heavenly.
I think if you can grow African Violets, you certainly can grow Orchids!
Personally if I were to start picking up some Orchids, I would buy a nice Fall flowering Cattleya, preferably in bud or bloom, and take it from there. You can enjoy the blooms with a nice scent now ( many of them smell wonderful). Take it outside next Summer, water and fertilize with the rest of you garden and enjoy another pretty show next Fall.
Oh and Happy Birthday!!🎂