4 min read

Interview with Kathleen Currie of Smoke Perfume

Written By: Angela Gembrin

EDEN BOTANICALS Q&A WITH:  KATHLEEN CURRIE OF SMOKE PERFUME

Tell us a little about you and smoke perfume:

I grew up in Belize City, Belize, and moved to the states when I was 12. Growing up, we spent a ton of time outside and this early connection to nature has been a guiding influence on me. I've always been fascinated by the mind/body connection, and food and wellness. I studied holistic health in college, then went to massage school, and moved to New Orleans in 2009. I started my massage practice then, and as it grew, I got more interested in the choices we make in our daily lives--from clothing to makeup to music to food--and how these choices can affect our health in both good and bad ways. Smoke Perfume was born from this very inquisitive and inspired period, and from a place of DIY and research! 

How did you come to create your own natural perfumery and skincare line?

I got into creating fragrant essential oil blends in 2009 as a new massage therapist. I love the power of aromatherapy, and am fascinated by essential oils. I stumbled upon the blend that would become my signature scent, and very organically grew it into the company it is today. Now I have countless hours of study and experience in the natural perfume/skincare world, and the company continues to grow organically. 

How has your business evolved since you first began in 2013?

I launched the company with a single fragrance, and it has now evolved to include multiple fragrances, body scrubs, and body oils. I have incorporated more apothecary items after completing an herbalism program in 2015. The business is much more intentional than when I first started it in 2013. 

Why did you decide to use essential oils as opposed to synthetic fragrance ingredients?

I have found that my customers with chemical sensitivities can wear my perfumes without having an adverse reaction. Many customers have become educated about the benefits of naturals vs. synthetic ingredients, and have a very positive experience switching from synthetic perfume to the naturals I make. I love the way essential oils evolve with the wearer's unique chemistry. The way they smell different on everybody is endlessly fascinating to me. 

How do you assess essential oils before incorporating them into your blends? 

I like to order samples of oils before I commit to buying the big sizes. I love being able to purchase samples from Eden--not every essential oils company sells them, but it's so important to determine quality and freshness. I try to work with high quality oils always. 

Do you gravitate towards any particular aroma when blending?  

Not really! When I first set out to create a scent, I decide on 1-3 oils I'd like to base the scent around (for example, in my original scent Smoke I was enamored with Vetiver, and knew I wanted that to be the focus of the blend. With Ritual, it was neroli, rose, and cinnamon leaf).  

Can you describe your process of composing a natural perfume?

Perfume making is really about editing. Usually, I build the base notes first, testing each step of the way. There's a ton of editing and starting over!  I work small scale, just drop by drop. I write everything down, and when I have a formula I like I scale up. Then more editing! 

How did you first find Eden Botanicals, and why have you chosen to work with our company?

I think I first found Eden when I was looking to scale up. Believe it or not, I started with just the tiny 1/2 oz bottles of essential oils available at my local health food store. However, it wasn't long before I needed oils in bigger quantity. A little research led me to Eden...such a good reputation, and excellent price point and value! I have been really happy with the selection and sizes available. It's a really supportive community that seems to really know their consumer.

Who has inspired you?

I have been lucky to study with Mandy Aftel, and she inspires me greatly.

Are there any struggles you face creating beauty products in the industry?

The industry is competitive, with more and more talented makers popping up. I do my best to stay inspired and true to my brand's mission. Managing production as a small scale manufacturing company always poses unique challenges, too!

Do you have any new projects we can expect to see in the future?

Definitely releasing new scents as I am able to formulate them. I'll be launching my newest one, Wellspring, In mid-February! 

Do you have any creative words of wisdom you would like to offer our readers? 

Always learn from your mistakes (because you will make them!). Stay gentle and true to yourself, and don't get hung up on comparing your project to other's! 

You can purchase Smoke Perfume online at www.smokeperfume.com

Or at: Be Clean, Defend New Orleans, Friend, Field Trip, and More.

Follow Smoke Perfume on Instagram and Facebook @smokeperfume