Passing It On

From time to time people send me samples, and I have even been known to send out for a few myself. Everything from vintage Caron’s to modern niche’ has crossed my desk. I admit that I am not all that familiar with a lot of modern day perfumers work. There isn’t enough time to do and try it all. And I like to keep my nose clean so to speak, so that I can stay focused on my own work. At one point I had a nice sized sample of Andy Tauers Lonestar Memories, a scent that I do like. Over time I portioned it out in smaller amounts to some of my male customers. Who hopefully went on to purchase a bottle. And not that it is strictly a male scent anyone could wear it. I gave a sample of 10 Corso Como to our UPS guy, who fell for it immediately. Just last week he was asking me where he could buy it. Luckyscent should have me on retainer. 10 Corso Como is a scent is to me a unisex scent (but aren’t they all) so I am not so sure that one can draw a line from male to female. For men the line might start at, Honeysuckle and Sweet Flowers, but for women anything goes, really. Years ago Mr. Z wore Lagerfeld, I liked that scent too and would also wear something like that. I think when we are open and have a good vibe about our work it is easy to share. I know that my work has it’s own vibe and it might not be for everyone. At the same time I know that Andy Tauer has a unique style. I also like Ayala Senders Gaucho, and do not see myself creating that scent. So why not turn someone else onto it. I have a little box of Ayala’s samples in my shop. And wouldn’t mind having a wider variety of samples from other perfumers. I am not open to the public enough to carry other perfumers lines, but if I were I certainly would consider it. For now though, aside from holidays, Saturday hours are all I can really handle, and still get all of my work done.

I am also struck sometimes by how personal scent really is. It is very clear this weekend, as the florist across the street is packed with people buying flowers for Mom, yet not as many people will buy perfume for mom. Instead they will either bring mom in and let her pick something out, or buy her a gift certificate. It’s a totally different game.

I know that as perfumers we all live in our own bubbles, and rarely get the chance to meet. If it does happen it is usually an event, rather than just being in the neighborhood, stopping by and hanging out. Sharing other peoples work is a great way to pass on the love and passion for scent. It doesn’t happen a lot, but when it does I feel good about it. Particularly when I know that the perfumers are passionate and have a great love for their work. A win win anyway you look at it.

Peace & Blessings ZZ….