I had a complete fragrance journey when I went on my in-person experience at the Olfactory for the first time this year. Not only did I have a blast creating my own unique scent (that I now wear almost every day) but I immediately knew that this would be the most perfect and timeless gift idea.
Guided by one of the Olfactory advisors, I was prompted to begin with choosing a base fragrance for my scent. Each base was curated and nuanced and had a story! I narrowed down my favorites and we began to build my unique fragrance together.
I picked the base scent “Reed”, designed by perfumer Harry Fremont. Reed is a “Clearwood patchouli grounds Reed with earthiness while floral notes lift the fog of seriousness” as described by Olfactory. I loved the clean, yet sensual scent.
Next, my Olfactory Advisor worked with me to layer different scents on the base Reed fragrance. She tweaked, I sniffed, and together, we created something that didn’t just smell nice, it felt me. She had me evaluate the different fragrance mixes on my skin, until I landed on a scent that felt unmistakably personal. By the end, I was holding a bottle of my own custom fragrance, complete with my chosen name, bottled fresh on the spot just for me!
After my incredible in-person experience at Olfactory, I had the chance to ask a few questions to Olfactory founder JJ Vittoria about the inspiration behind Olfactory NYC, and what makes it so special.
Q: When and how did the idea for Olfactory come to life?
A: Growing up, I had the opportunity to meet several master perfumers and learn about the art of perfume creation from the laboratory side… I admired the artistry and felt that something was missing between this luxury process and the typical retail experience. I wanted to create a space that made high-quality perfumery more inviting, fun, and accessible.
Q: How has your vision evolved?
A: We were always bottling fragrances fresh for customers, but quickly realized that the customization experience gave access to the process of perfumery that they might not have otherwise had—offering both a high-quality product and an experience to remember.
Q: What are you most proud of?
A: Many customers come for a unique experience with friends or family and leave with a new understanding, appreciation and, oftentimes, obsession with fragrance. I think that is what I’m most proud of—turning on a new set of people to the art and magic of fragrance.
If you’re looking to buy a gift that feels thoughtful and is literally unforgettable, Olfactory NYC offers a physical custom gift experience, perfect for exactly this. Rather than just gifting a product, you’re inviting someone the chance to create something deeply personal and make a memory. The physical gift bottle is an empty perfume bottle that serves as the invitation to the in-studio scent creation experience at Olfactory. The recipient brings the bottle in, and leaves with a custom fragrance bottled just for them.
Whether you are looking for something to gift for a birthday, holiday, or that person who has “everything,” this is a gift that feels intentional, joyful, and beautifully personal.
Find the Gift Bottle and all other products, experiences, and gift options here.
