Buckle Up for a Whiff of the Bizarre!

This week's Fragrant Quiz takes a wild journey through fragrance history, uncovering facts so strange they'll make you say "Wow!" Get ready for tales of royal stench, bat guano perfume, and the surprising reasons brides carried bouquets. Test your knowledge and prepare to be flabbergasted by the fascinating (and sometimes foul-smelling) past of fragrance! It's a podcast episode you won't want to miss!

Fragrantly yours,
Melanie Jane.

• Learn the art of perfumery and buy my eBook here
• Learn more about online fragrance courses at The Naked Perfumer online
• Subscribe to my YouTube channel here

Well, look who’s back.

After five and a half years of losing myself in France—part romantic cliché, part emotional demolition site—I’ve finally rescued the real Melly. 

Yes, there were baguettes and lavender fields. There was also a hefty dose of depression and isolation that at times brought me to my knees. Honestly, I lost my mojo. As a consequence, I ghosted the podcast, the newsletter, and social media without so much as a dramatic farewell post. Just… poof, like the wicked witch of the west. Gone.

But plot twist: I’m back in Dubai. The fog’s lifted, the fire’s back on, and for the first time in ages, I’m ready—actually ready—to pick things back up. This next chapter will be a fresh inhale after a long time underwater and it feels like a proper reset. No performative “new me” declarations, just a grounded sense that something has shifted. There’s energy again. There’s purpose, a real sense of renewal (and possibly a mild caffeine/wine dependency).

So, the podcast is being resurrected. The newsletter’s getting a pulse. And I’m dipping a toe back into the social media pool. It feels like a genuine new start—with warmer weather and better Wi-Fi.

Thanks for sticking around.

Let the games begin…

Smelly Melly x

P.S. Today’s the 1st of May, and in true French tradition, it’s customary to gift a sprig of Lily of the Valley to friends and loved ones—for luck and prosperity in the months ahead. So here’s mine to you, virtually delivered, but sincerely meant. 🌿

Fragrantly yours,
Melanie Jane.

• Learn the art of perfumery and buy my eBook here
• Learn more about online fragrance courses at The Naked Perfumer online
• Subscribe to my YouTube channel here

Stepping Out, Finding Inspiration (and Ditching the Mic)

Ever feel stuck in a rut? As Henry Ford famously said, "If you always do what you've always done, you'll always get what you've always got." Well, that's exactly what happened to me.

I recently attended a wedding in Wales, and those four glorious days away from my computer screen, surrounded by beautiful scenery and amazing people, completely re-energized me. It made me realize I'd been stuck in a creative slump for months!

Coming back, I've had a major shift. While I love podcasts, I've realized video lets me express myself more freely and connect with you in a way that feels more natural. There's something about the visual element that gets lost in audio, especially when it comes to the world of fragrance.

So, with a heavy heart (and a spring in my step!), this will be my final episode.

But fear not, fragrant friends! If you want to delve deeper into my world of perfume adventures, from lavender fields and jasmine farms to perfume exhibitions and of course, my ever-growing bottle collection, then head over to my YouTube channel, The Naked Perfumer by Melanie Jane.
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwftVuu571LiwnggzuI4p_w

Thanks for joining me on this podcast journey. I'll see you on the other side of the camera!

Fragrantly yours,
Melanie Jane.

• Learn the art of perfumery and buy my eBook here
• Learn more about online fragrance courses at The Naked Perfumer online
• Subscribe to my YouTube channel here

This episode of Tuesday’s Tips and Tales takes a captivating journey through the world of perfumery. Melanie Jane shares a personal story of transformation, emphasising the importance of pivoting a business strategy to thrive in an ever-changing landscape.

From humble beginnings crafting personal blends, listeners will be inspired by Melanie’s evolution into a fragrance designer for prestigious brands like Toyota and Carlsberg. The episode delves into the world of high-end fragrance creation, detailing experiences hosting events at iconic venues like the Burj Al Arab, the Ritz-Carlton, and even the Versace Hotel. 

This invigorating episode isn't just about luxury brands; it also explores the launch of a comprehensive new website encompassing Melanie's entire fragrant universe.

To top it all off, a unique new line of perfumes housed in vintage pillboxes is unveiled. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about perfumery, offering a potent blend of inspiration and practical advice. It serves as a powerful reminder that with dedication and a willingness to adapt, even the most fragrant dreams can blossom into a flourishing business empire.

Fragrantly yours,
Melanie Jane.

• Learn the art of perfumery and buy my eBook here
• Learn more about online fragrance courses at The Naked Perfumer online
• Subscribe to my YouTube channel here

Buckle Up for a Jasmine Journey!

This week's Fragrant Quiz dives headfirst into the captivating world of jasmine! Get ready for unexpected facts about this fragrant flower, from its connection to nocturnal pollinators to its surprising historical use in love potions. We'll explore the challenges of capturing jasmine's essence, the bizarre methods used in the past, and its fascinating role in different cultures, from national flower to artistic inspiration. So, grab a cup of jasmine tea (or your favorite fragrant beverage) and prepare to be surprised by the wild world of jasmine! It's a fragrant quiz episode you won't want to miss!

Fragrantly yours,
Melanie Jane.

• Learn the art of perfumery and buy my eBook here
• Learn more about online fragrance courses at The Naked Perfumer online
• Subscribe to my YouTube channel here

Dive into the heart of Provence with this episode as we explore the fragrant Fête du Jasmin, also known as the Jasmine Festival, in Grasse, France! We'll delve into the festival's history, vibrant celebrations, and captivating flower battle, unveiling tips to plan your trip and maximize your experience. So get ready to immerse yourself in the world of perfume and create lasting memories in this charming French town!

Fragrantly yours,
Melanie Jane.

• Learn the art of perfumery and buy my eBook here
• Learn more about online fragrance courses at The Naked Perfumer online
• Subscribe to my YouTube channel here

Ever wondered why your favorite perfume smells even better after a few weeks? It's all thanks to maceration! This episode of Tuesdays Tips & Tails dives deep into this fascinating process, explaining the science behind it and how it transforms a jumble of scents into a beautiful fragrance. 
So, tune in and learn the magic behind the captivating aroma of your favourite perfume!

Fragrantly yours,
Melanie Jane.

• Learn the art of perfumery and buy my eBook here
• Learn more about online fragrance courses at The Naked Perfumer online
• Subscribe to my YouTube channel here

Dive into the fragrant world of flowers on this episode of Friday's Fragrant Quiz! Test your knowledge on fascinating facts about blooms and blossoms used in perfumery. From the secrets of jasmine to the science behind capturing rare orchid scents, get ready for a bouquet of surprising trivia that will have you smelling the roses (and tuberose) in a whole new way!

Fragrantly yours,
Melanie Jane.

• Learn the art of perfumery and buy my eBook here
• Learn more about online fragrance courses at The Naked Perfumer online
• Subscribe to my YouTube channel here

Ever get confused by YouTube "experts" telling you which essential oils to dilute and which not? This episode cuts through the noise! Learn why DILUTING ALL your perfumery oils is the key to:

• Saving money on precious ingredients
• Experimenting efficiently without wasting a drop
• Discovering the true fragrance of each note with alcohol's help

Spoiler alert: That 10% dilution everyone talks about? It's for EXPERIMENTATION ONLY. 

Fragrantly yours,
Melanie Jane.

• Learn the art of perfumery and buy my eBook here
• Learn more about online fragrance courses at The Naked Perfumer online
• Subscribe to my YouTube channel here

Unraveling Grasse's Secrets: Perfume Capital Revealed!

This episode dives into Grasse, France, the heart of fragrance. We answer 10 burning questions, exploring the May Festival, and surprising historical rumours.

Love perfume? Discover Grasse's fascinating history, unique techniques, and the hidden treasures waiting to be found.

This episode is your olfactory adventure!

Fragrantly yours,
Melanie Jane.

• Learn the art of perfumery and buy my eBook here
• Learn more about online fragrance courses at The Naked Perfumer online
• Subscribe to my YouTube channel here