I've had the opportunity to try perfume-making multiple times, and I keep going back because it's so much fun! I’ve always loved fragrances, but I never really understood the art behind crafting a scent. During the workshop, I learned a lot about the different fragrance tones and how they come together to create a perfect blend.

First, we were introduced to the basic categories of fragrance notes: top, middle (heart), and base notes.

• Top notes are the first impression of the perfume, usually fresh and light. These are the scents you smell immediately after spraying the perfume, like citrus, mint, or floral.
• Middle notes are the heart of the fragrance. These emerge after the top notes fade and last the longest. Think of scents like lavender, rose, or cinnamon—they give the perfume its character.
• Base notes are the deep, lasting scents that anchor the fragrance. They develop as the perfume settles, and can include vanilla, musk, or sandalwood.