ParfumPlus

temples in Kyoto radiate quiet dignity. Lakes reflecting the majestic Mount Fuji on a rare, clear day or small,l quiet islands of Okinawa where silence is key. It is all about extremes, motion and calm, intensity and subtlety, that fascinates me most in perfumery, where a single fragrance can capture several emotions. Participating in a traditional tea ceremony became one of the most meaningful experiences of my journey. Guided by the principles of: • Wa (Harmony) • Kei (Respect) • Sei (Purity) • Jaku (Tranquillity) The ceremony embodies mindfulness and intention. In that specific case, the tea ceremony was based on the philosophy of “Ichigo“ and “Ichie“, the understanding that every encounter happens only once and will never be repeated in exactly the same way. This philosophy deeply resonates with my life and perfumery. Working with natural raw materials reinforces the philosophy of uniqueness. Harvest conditions, climate, soil and water influence every crop. No absolute or essential oil ever smells identical to the previous year. Each batch carries subtle variations, just like every encounter in life. In this sense, fragrance mirrors the philosophy of Ichigo Ichie. Even if compositions are similar, they are never perceived the same. Each creation evolves differently on every skin, interacting with body chemistry and personal memory. For me, perfumery is storytelling without words. It is people, experiencing different cultures, tasting unfamiliar dishes, and discovering local rituals constantly expand my creative perspective. There is something deeply grounding about exploring new flavours and scents; it reminds me how rich and diverse our world truly is. In some regions I have travelled to, fragrance is more than an accessory. It is a language of identity and hospitality, where scent is inseparable from memory and place. As an example, oud, amber and incense carry stories of heritage, ritual and tradition. Every destination I visit leaves an invisible imprint on my olfactory memory. From working at an elephant sanctuary in Sri Lanka to exploring Australia’s landscapes, the vibrant markets of Vietnam, and the tropical serenity of Madeira or sleeping in the desert of Morocco, each journey has shaped my creative signature. Especially, I am inspired by contrasts and tradition. Perfumery, like travel, is a constant process of learning. No two days are alike. New raw materials, new interpretations, new technical challenges, it is a profession that demands precision while allowing infinite creativity. It is a career that grows with you, just as your perception of the world evolves. JAPAN: PRESENCE AND CONTRAST Among all my travels, my latest travel to Japan left one of the deepest impressions on me. It had long been a dream destination, and experiencing it in person was transformative. The vibrant energy of Tokyo’s & Osaka’s bustling streets, dynamic, fast, almost electric, followed by moments of complete stillness. Bamboo forests swaying gently. Ancient P A R F U M P L U S 14