I grew up in Bellwood, Pennsylvania, a charming rural town nestled in Central Pennsylvania, surrounded by the breathtaking Appalachian Mountains. These mountains, with their ever-changing foliage and abundant wildlife, provided a constant source of beauty and wonder throughout my childhood. Exploring their uncharted regions, I would often indulge in flights of imagination and invent thrilling tales of adventure.

At the tender age of 11, my fascination with scents and perfumes began to take shape. My grandmother, an elegant woman of impeccable taste, always adorned herself with Chanel N°5. Intrigued by its allure, I would pester her with questions about the fragrance, its creator, and the story behind its creation. In response, she would regale me with captivating tales of Coco Chanel, a remarkable woman who, despite her humble origins, blazed a trail in the realms of fashion and perfume. As I delved deeper into Coco Chanel’s life story, my admiration for her grew, fueled not only by her peerless designs and exquisite jewelry, but also by her indomitable spirit.

To me, Chanel N°5 embodied a love story between King Jasmine and Queen Rose, an ethereal olfactory dance between two enchanting essences. This abstract and elusive scent held a tantalizing mystery that beckoned me, inviting me to uncover its hidden secrets. Coco herself once remarked that “perfume is the unseen, unforgettable, ultimate accessory of fashion… that heralds your arrival and prolongs your departure.” Inspired by this notion, I longed to become a part of the world that creates enduring and lingering memories. Chanel N°5 had set the standard against which all other fragrances were measured.

It was my beloved grandmother who gifted me my first fragrance, Chanel Antaeus. The scent, named after a Greek god whose strength derived from the Earth, evoked a sense of vigor and power. Antaeus, ultimately defeated by Heracles, revealed his weakness when lifted from the ground, deprived of his essential connection to the Earth. This fragrance embodied the essence of Antaeus, presenting a harmonious blend of strength and elegance.

Furthering my passion for the olfactory arts, I pursued studies in fashion at the Art Institute of Pittsburgh, immersing myself in courses that encompassed the intricate craft of perfume making. Following my graduation, I continued my education at Point Park University School of Business Accounting & Computer Sciences, enticed by the renowned conservatory it housed. The university’s distinguished dance program, founded by the esteemed Nickolas Petrov, an internationally acclaimed dancer, choreographer, and artistic director, drew me in and broadened my horizons.

My scent creations bear the indelible imprint of my affinity for both latte and the film “Suspiria.” The captivating “Suspiria” trilogy influenced my fragrances – Immortal Meadow, Black Magic, and Wish Upon a Star – as they weave together grassy and berry notes, evoking thematic parallels. Additionally, Espresso Royale, reflecting my love for latte, captures the delectable sweetness of hazelnut and caramel.

Being part of the indie scent world presents an extraordinary opportunity for me to share memories and experiences with others. While writers utilize pens, artists wield paints and canvases, and musicians express themselves through instruments, I have chosen the realm of scent to forge connections and evoke emotions through the medium of memory, dreams, and aspirations. The sense of smell possesses a unique power to transport us back to forgotten events or experiences, often with spontaneous clarity. Moreover, scents possess an emotive quality, capable of eliciting a vast spectrum of emotions and inspiring meaningful connections. Even the faintest aroma can initiate conversations and create bonds, and I consider it an honor to contribute to this remarkable realm.

Among the constellation of talented perfume artists, one particular artist has struck a chord with me – Nikolay Eremin of St. Petersburg, Russia. His scents, creativity, and unique artistic perspective have garnered my utmost admiration. Nikolay is not only a mentor to me but also a dear friend, offering both encouragement and a dose of reality. He consistently inspires me to strive for excellence and to evolve into the best version of myself.

In my capacity as the founder and perfumer of Sebastiane, a distinguished fragrance brand boasting five exquisite perfumes, I embrace the opportunity to create memorable and evocative scent experiences. Sebastiane, a brand that first emerged in 2012 and continues to thrive, reflects my unwavering dedication to the craft. With Robert Elder as the perfumer behind these remarkable fragrances, each creation possesses a distinct allure that encapsulates the essence of Sebastiane.