May 13, 2021
A beauty therapist and hairdresser by trade, Fiona O’Donnell created the Perfume Oil Company in 2019 because she wanted a product that was natural and could be used by everyone – something she thought was missing in the market. With an array of original perfumes and personal scents inspired by some famous cult fragrances, these perfume oils are beautiful but also, importantly, very affordable. Here we speak to Fiona about her best tips for wearing scent, her love of oils and what you’ll never find in her fragrances.
Tell us a little about the Perfume Oil Company…
We were officially founded in September 2019 but it was in the making for about three years. I was looking for a product that was as natural as can be, so that almost everyone can use it - no matter how sensitive you are! I also wanted a convenient, compact-sized fragrance that didn’t leak or spill and could be carried around in your handbag, gym bag or kept in your glove box or desk drawer.
What did you do prior to launching the company?
I owned and operated three salons over 17 years and retired from the industry a number of years ago. Always a lover of all thing beauty, I started making soap and candles and became obsessed with fragrance - creating, blending and pouring.
What was the first product you created?
A roll-on perfume oil, but it was very different to what I have now. From the types of oils down to the packaging and price point - it has changed a lot since I first started!
Why perfume oils?
I feel that perfume oils are a better alternative to a spray on fragrance, as they don’t contain the alcohol or chemical fillers that are what most people are ‘allergic’ to. It’s usually these ingredients that cause skin sensitivity - the main causes why people say they can’t wear fragrance. Oils also gently melt into the skin and leave a sheer and lasting scent.
Which is your most popular scent?
SANTAL which is inspired by a very well known brand, along with GYPSY and AFRIQUE, also inspired by another famous brand, both with cult followings.
What are your three best fragrance tips?
1. Apply your oil to your pulse points, this is where the blood is pumping the hardest and the skin is warmest and it also allows the oil to melt nicely.
2. Wear your perfume all day, everyday - don’t save it for special occasions! Every day is special and you want to smell fabulous all the time.
3. Layer your fragrance if possible. Use a shower gel, body cream and finish with the oil - it will last much longer.
What makes the Perfume Oil Company scents so special?
I have a mix of my own specially created fragrances along with a collection of inspired scents from famous cosmetic and fashion houses. I offer fragrances that are strictly pure essential oils only and also A-Grade fine fragrance oil blends. I hope my customers feel happy, confident and beautiful when they wear them – they’re an everyday luxury that people should enjoy!
What will you never find in one of your products?
I am conscious of being vegan friendly and cruelty free, so no animal products at all. They’re only tested on family and friends!!
THE QUICK SIX
The last text message I sent was... A happy birthday message to a friend!
I most admire… My children, who are now adults. My daughter is a very good mother to her children and my son is a kind and caring gentleman to his girlfriend.
On my bedside table is… My phone charger, my iPad and a bedside lamp.
The mantra I live by is… Nothing is a problem!! Everything can be sorted!!
My signature scent is… I love ELLE - inspired by Coco Mademosielle
My favourite smell in the world is … I love it when you can smell ‘summer in the air’! I also love champagne and chocolate - if they have a smell???
Follow them on instagram here.