Coming Around to Cherry
Cherry has never been a note I reach for, but this sample made me pause. Cherry N Heaven isn’t syrupy or loud. It’s restrained, sultry, and surprisingly long-wearing, enough to make me rethink a note I usually avoid.
When Recipes Disappear
A reflection on early food websites, disappearing recipes, and why I started writing down the ones that mattered.
First Sniff of an Icon: Chanel No. 5
After years of waiting, I finally experienced Chanel No. 5. From the “Mother of all Scents” epiphany to a deep dive into its history via the Pauline Dreyfus book set, this is the story of how a birthday gift sparked a new obsession with the family tree of fragrance.
Wearing Art: Why I’m Hopelessly Devoted to Parfums Quartana
It started with a sample of Parfums Quartana’s Ierofante—a scent so daring, I thought it was better suited for my ex-husband. Years later, it’s at the top of my wish list. This isn’t just a perfume review; it’s the story of a brand that creates challenging, intelligent art that grows with you. Read on to discover why their stunningly complex fragrances have earned my complete devotion.
First Sniff of Vilhelm Parfumerie
As a Southern gal with a daily iced tea habit, Vilhelm Parfumerie’s Dear Polly has been on my wishlist forever. When I finally got my hands on a sample set, I was ready for an epiphany. What I found instead was a surprising journey with two other scents—Morning Chess and Mango Skin—that challenged my expectations and left me with a new favorite.
First Sniff: Quartana’s Forest of a Golden Dream
I am just so mad at myself right now! As someone who absolutely adores green fragrances, I knew deep down I was gonna love Quartana’s Forest of a Golden Dream. So why did I wait months to finally try it? Here are my first sniff impressions of this inspiring, golden, and utterly gorgeous scent.
First Sniff: Amouage Guidance
After reading so many positive reviews and having high hopes for Amouage Guidance, I was so excited to finally get my nose on a sample. The list of notes is to die for: a creamy pear and hazelnut opening, a beautifully blended heart of rose and jasmine, with a supporting base of sandalwood, ambergris, and vanilla.
We Can’t Forget the Recipes
My search for a banana pudding recipe led me to something else entirely: a handwritten no-roll pie crust from my grandmother. It sparked a reflection on a generation of women who, despite their struggles, left a beautiful legacy of love and incredible recipes, all preserved in their beautiful cursive.
First Sniff: Willin’ by Cade Black
Lately, I’ve found myself increasingly interested in the world of natural perfumery. There’s something truly special about perfumes crafted with botanical ingredients. I do believe this particular genre of the fragrance world is having a moment at this time, at least for me. This afternoon, I had the pleasure of sampling Willin’, the latest release […]
A Note to Self: Fig & Leather
This morning began with a craving for fig, so I sprayed myself down with Debaser from D.S. & Durga. I purchased this one towards the end of last summer and, to my shock, I don’t think I’ve worn it once this summer. My Memory vs. Reality As I sprayed it this morning, I was surprised […]
I Used AI to Build My WordPress Website. It Took Two Years, Not Ten Minutes.
Honey, those ads promising a website in minutes with AI? As a non-developer who spent two years on this journey, let me tell you the real story. It’s a messy dance where you either learn to use the tool, or you become one. I’ve never been much of a tool.
Summer Perfumes 2024: Your Summer Fragrance Wardrobe Essentials
Your summer scent wardrobe deserves a refresh! Discover the 4 essential perfume categories – bright, light, floral, and night – to elevate your style and capture the essence of summer 2024.
