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Perfumery without Pretension by Diana Rajchel of Magickal Realism
This month as a diversion from my usual, I decided to interview Stephanie K. of
Stephanie K Naturals. I’ve had the pleasure of sampling a few of Stephanie’s
perfumes; she has a very simple, low-key style that is great for those who prefer
the subtle approach to olfactory expression. As I write this I am wearing her
fragrance opulence; it begins with a sharp, herbal punch and then sweetens into
a sliver of August moonlight on the skin.
Why did you choose perfume as a medium?
Growing up I had little exposure to perfumes. I had family members who were
sensitive to them, and in my young teens I developed sensitivities to them as
well. I hated being deprived of scent, but I was resigned to it until discovering
essential oils did not make us react. What a discovery indeed! I could finally take
part in the beauty and mystery of perfume. I thought there must be others like
me, so I also wanted to share what I made with the world.
Why do you use natural materials?
It began as an alternative to synthetics, now it’s a personal obsession. It’s about
appreciating the genuine article, connecting to the history, and feeling closer to
the nature in this highly processed modern world.
What is your favorite personal scent? Do you have a favorite scent?
I would bathe in sandalwood! No, not really, but any scent using it commands my
attention. I’m also enamored with the collective scent of the plants on my back
porch. The jasmine sambac, basil, rosemary and peppermint smell wonderful
warmed by the sun.
How does your daily life influence what you create?
Cooking is a big inspiration for me. Any time I experiment in cooking or try a new
dish at a restaurant, I consider the way the flavors blend or contrast each other.
I’ll flip the TV on to a food show, and just the imagined aroma of the colorful
plate sparks an idea.
Where do you hope to see your business go in the next year?
I’m working on moving from almost exclusively online to more local selling. I
really want to get more involved in local markets and fairs. Besides being
greener, I love the sense of community and connecting with people personally.
This month as a diversion from my usual, I decided to interview Stephanie K. of
Stephanie K Naturals. I’ve had the pleasure of sampling a few of Stephanie’s
perfumes; she has a very simple, low-key style that is great for those who prefer
the subtle approach to olfactory expression. As I write this I am wearing her
fragrance opulence; it begins with a sharp, herbal punch and then sweetens into
a sliver of August moonlight on the skin.
Why did you choose perfume as a medium?
Growing up I had little exposure to perfumes. I had family members who were
sensitive to them, and in my young teens I developed sensitivities to them as
well. I hated being deprived of scent, but I was resigned to it until discovering
essential oils did not make us react. What a discovery indeed! I could finally take
part in the beauty and mystery of perfume. I thought there must be others like
me, so I also wanted to share what I made with the world.
Why do you use natural materials?
It began as an alternative to synthetics, now it’s a personal obsession. It’s about
appreciating the genuine article, connecting to the history, and feeling closer to
the nature in this highly processed modern world.
What is your favorite personal scent? Do you have a favorite scent?
I would bathe in sandalwood! No, not really, but any scent using it commands my
attention. I’m also enamored with the collective scent of the plants on my back
porch. The jasmine sambac, basil, rosemary and peppermint smell wonderful
warmed by the sun.
How does your daily life influence what you create?
Cooking is a big inspiration for me. Any time I experiment in cooking or try a new
dish at a restaurant, I consider the way the flavors blend or contrast each other.
I’ll flip the TV on to a food show, and just the imagined aroma of the colorful
plate sparks an idea.
Where do you hope to see your business go in the next year?
I’m working on moving from almost exclusively online to more local selling. I
really want to get more involved in local markets and fairs. Besides being
greener, I love the sense of community and connecting with people personally.