Meet Valentine Pozzo di Borgo, Founder of Quintessence, Paris

Can you tell us more about the history of Quintessence? 

Quintessence was born in 2008. But, I always knew I wanted to create my own company. First, I decided to dedicate myself to BtoB clients: creating olfactive identity for customers that had no access to the perfume world. This activity is called Quintessence Lab. I wanted to pursue a family tradition as my family has been in the perfume industry for almost 5 generations. Perfume was somehow in my blood. 
Then 2 years later, Quintessence Paris was launched as I wanted to open to a new clientele.

There is a history of perfume in your family?

Yes! I a descendant of the Givaudan family. They were chemists who created the first synthetic smells. They invented Lilac for example. The company that they created is still operational today. They sold it in the ’60s but Givaudan still develops tastes and scents that delight consumers all over the world.

Do you remember your first memory of a scent? 

My first memory is associated with a place. The perfume of this moment is not describable as it is a mix of fragrance. It was vials in her grandfather’s laboratory.

Can you tell us three things people don’t necessarily know about perfumes? 

Some flowers like Lily of the valley cannot produce a natural flavour that can be used in perfume. The flower smells amazing but in the fragrance business, we have to use synthetic smells.

Grasse, the town known to be the “capital of perfume” was before known for its tanners.

To create a perfume, the perfumer uses a perfume organ, which has between 2 to 3000 components that they can use.

How would you describe your style in interiors? 

I guess I have no definite style. My home cosy and warm. It is full of objects that I love. I guess that is how you create a place where you feel good. It would be a mix between traditional and bohemian with a lot of color! 

Can you tell us three facts about you? 

I have another life next to Quintessence. I have jumping stables. 

I love travelling 

I am always followed by Lulu my dog.