Posted by LAURIE STERN on February 19, 2020 · Leave a Comment
Posted by LAURIE STERN on February 04, 2020 · Leave a Comment
Greetings, dear Purrfumery friends!
If I had to guess, I would say the winter holidays are the kitties’ favorite time of year. There is so much to do in the Purrfumery with all the gift wrap, bows, and magical whatnots, and of course they want to be right in the middle of it all. They’re very helpful!
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20% off Everything at the Purrfumery
The Purrfumery has something for everyone on your list, and it’s all 20% off until December 5th. You don’t need a discount code, it will automatically be in your cart! Looking for recommendations?
New Lilac Enfleurage Frosting: Subtle and sublime and light as a cloud! I sourced this rare lilac enfleurage from the only person I know of in the world who makes it. The Purrfumery’s Lilac Enfleurage Frosting is made with fresh, true lilac pomade and absolute. It’s a true lilac scent that is extremely rare for natural perfumery! The scent is very soft—perfect for those of us who prefer a light scent when we moisturize. I have a very limited supply—don’t wait to order.
And, all my other Frostings are back, too. Treat dry, chapped, cold-weather skin to a dose of moisture with Black Cat, Gardenia, Kashmir Rose and Orange Blossom Frostings.
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New Corsage Perfumes: All of my new perfumes—Flame Brocade, Moonlight and Mystère Dévoilé—are adorned with a hand-tied corsage or ring that you can wear. I make each corsage and ring with my collection of antique French ribbons and velvet flowers—each one is unique!
All of my new perfumes are exquisite and rich, but I am partial to Flame Brocade on a wintery night! It’s warm and transporting with its mix of tuberose, frangipani, and antique cinnamon in a yummy vanilla sandalwood base. Moonlight is a spicy warm homage to the opulent Oriental perfumes of the 1920s. It indulges the senses with a floral, citrus opening and a heart set in an accord of Indian jasmine, Madagascar ylang ylang and Egyptian carnation. And Mystère Dévoilé… A mystery unveiled! Lush and floral, Mystère Dévoilé unfurls generous notes of Indian jasmine, Lisbon lemon, and Italian blood orange before finding its heart in fruity Chinese osmanthus and Orris butter. Flame Brocade, Moonlight and Mystère Dévoilé come in sterling silver jewel boxes or Starlight compacts. Don’t forget to tell me when you make your purchase if you want a ring or pin-on corsage, or if you have a color preference!
Eze and Jasmine Orange Blossom Kittylicious Perfumes: These are two of my most popular scents, and I am now offering them in sustainable and refillable bottles. When you run low, I will refill them!
Named after the famed French perfume village, Eze is a blend of lemon, lavender, rose geranium and jasmine that finishes with the healing warmth of Labdanum rock rose. And Jasmine Orange Blossom... this is one of my personal favorites. I set French orange blossom and narcotic night-blooming jasmine in a base of Tahitian vanilla-infused organic jojoba oil. Divine!
Bed of Roses Parfum or Eau de Parfum: A holiday favorite! I hand-blended nine distinct roses to form an accord—a harmonious and opulent new rose scent. This accord is part of what makes Bed of Roses so special... and so toasty warm. Indulge in the rose and you’ll find notes of aged Tamil Nadu sandalwood, dark chocolate and rich cognac, and accents of tuberose, Boronia, orange blossom and green mandarin. This is a deep and mysterious rose creation that contains some of the rarest natural treasures on earth.
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Affordable Delights To Inhale Deeply!
The Purrfumery is a perfect stop for stocking stuffers, or for those special occasions when you want to give a little something.
Here are a few ideas for fun, affordable gifts... and they are all 20% off until December 5th.
Mr. Whisker’s Beard Balms: Beardsmen will love our line of Mr. Whisker’s Beard Balms in Juniper & Cypress, Piñon Desert, and Vetiver Breeze. Tame the scruff!
Hydrosols: Hydrosols come in a spray bottle and deliver an uplifting burst of gorgeous scent. Keep them with you to refresh and hydrate your skin, anywhere. Available in Organic Lavender and Bulgarian Rose Water.
Bath Salts: Give the gift of sumptuous, relaxing scents for the tub! Our trio of bath salts is a delightful introduction to the Purrfumery, and we also have small and large containers of your favorites.
Happy Holidays, my dear Purrfumery friends!
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Sharing Perfume Lore with the World
One more gift idea for you! Perfume lover and collector Creezy Courtoy has released her new book, The Perfume Roads, a thorough history of perfumery from ancient times. This gorgeous, hard-bound coffee table book is beautifully illustrated with images from Creezy’s own perfume collection, and it will take you on a journey from ancient times to our modern day. This is a perfect gift for anyone who loves perfume, design, art, history... I love to get cozy in the evenings with a cup of tea and flip the pages! Here is a link where you can buy it: https://www.perfumefoundation.org/the-perfume-roads.html
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Visit the Purrfumery
Please let me know if you’d like to visit this holiday season! I would love to see you and help you select gifts for yourself and everyone on your list. Call me at 510-334-8824 or email laurie@purrfumery.com.
Until next time,
Peace, love, purrfume and kitty cats
XOXO Laurie
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Posted by LAURIE STERN on January 13, 2020 · Leave a Comment
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Greetings, dear Purrfumery friends!
Happy New Year to you all! In just a few short weeks we will be celebrating the wonders of love and friendship, and our cute little friend Cupid! Valentine’s Day is my favorite day of the year. It’s a day when we open our hearts to love – and not just romantic love, but the fondness and care we feel for everyone in our lives. It’s a perfect day for a sweet treat, and a lavishly wrapped gift from Velvet & Sweet Pea’s Purrfumery!
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20% off all Purrfumery products
From today until this Sunday, January 19th, I am offering 20% off all Purrfumery products. There is something for everyone you love at the Purrfumery, and here are my top recommendations for you! Type in CUPID in the discount box.
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For the Guys
Beards are still hot and Mr. Whisker’s Beard Balm keeps them soft and neat. Does your guy have a favorite beard balm? Or do you want to spoil him with a sampler of all three? Your choice!
Juniper & Cypress Forest — My exclusive blend of French cypress, juniper, rose hip and avocado oils. Juniper & Cypress Forest is naturally anti-viral and anti-fungal.
Piñon Desert — An aromatic blend of Southwestern piñon pine and aged Indian sandalwood. Rich and warm, these fine woods are grounded in ceremony and healing.
Vetiver Breeze — A soothing blend of three distinct vetivers. I finished the scent with a co-distillation of vetiver and a tropical flower, giving it a hit of sweet-spiciness. The balm gets its jeweled-green glint from Ruh Khus, a vetiver distilled in copper vats.
If cologne is more his thing, try the Purrfumery’s Terrain or Firever Young, two incredible scents I created from deep, rich, earthy materials. I created Terrain for my husband Gary, who is not a “perfume guy,” and spends his days digging in the earth, planting, and building. Terrain is a blend of Mexican lime with wild Bulgarian geranium, Japanese yuzu, frankincense and rare sandalwoods, including Tamil Nadu from India. Firever Young, mentioned in Oprah magazine a few years ago, blends the woodsy scent of Douglas fir, silver fir, grand fir, blue spruce, and juniper with green and fruity florals and juicy citrus. The great outdoors is always inspiring!
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For the Travelers and Ramblers
Solids have become more popular for people on the go – you just tuck them into a purse or pocket and hit the road. My three new solid perfumes – Moonlight, Mystère Dévoilé and Flame Brocade – arrive with a lovely little corsage you can wear, made from antique ribbons, flowers, and magical whatnots! Be my lovely Valentine?
Moonlight is intensely floral with Indian jasmine, Madagascar ylang ylang and Egyptian carnation and inspired by the magical, luminous Orientals of the 1920s. Mystère Dévoilé – or “a mystery unveiled” – is also lush and floral, with notes of Indian jasmine, Italian blood orange, Lisbon lemon and a heart full of Chinese osmanthus and orris butter. And Flame Brocade… it opens with the spicy warmth of antique cinnamon and black pepper and evolves into a narcotic blend of sultry frangipani and tuberose. Inhale deeply!
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For Anyone with Dry Skin!
The combination of cold winter air outside and heated air inside can cause dry skin that stubbornly resists many lotions. Have you tried the Purrfumery Frostings yet? Purrfumery friends have reported that they are the only moisturizers that work for extreme dryness. My newest is Lilac Enfleurage Frosting, made with fresh lilac pomade and absolute. Subtle and sublime and light as a cloud! The scent is very soft—perfect for those of us who prefer a light scent when we moisturize. I have very few left – don’t wait to order.
My other deeply moisturizing Frostings are Black Cat, Gardenia, Kashmir Rose and Orange Blossom.
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For Honey Connoisseurs
Opulent and rich, Honey parfum is one of the Purrfumery’s most popular scents. What makes it so special and beloved? For some it’s the French orange blossom opening, for others it’s the whiff of Moroccan and Bulgarian roses. Everyone seems to agree that you can’t go wrong with Madagascar vanilla and a base of rare Tamil Nadu sandalwood. If you love Honey, you want to share it. It’s an incredible gift, and it’s 20% off until January 19th, this Sunday. Available as a liquid parfum or solid.
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Sniff and sample to your heart’s delight
Let me know if you’d like to come over for a cup of tea and a shopping spree. I’m around and would love to see you. Call me at 510-334-8824 or email laurie@purrfumery.com.
Thank you all, my dear Purrfumery friends!
Until next time,
Peace, love, purrfume and kitty cats
XOXO Laurie
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Posted by LAURIE STERN on July 18, 2019 · Leave a Comment
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Greetings, dear Purrfumery friends!
Cool summer breezes await you at the Purrfumery, so let’s get together! I have all kinds of summer treats for every occasion you might be planning, from the fanciest formal wedding to the most easy-going day in your backyard hammock.
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Big Summer Sale!
Is there something at the Purrfumery that you’ve had your eye on? Would a big summer sale help? From today until August 26th all Purrfumery products are 20% off—it’s my way of saying Happy Summer, my dear Purrfumery friends! Just type JASMINE in the discount box.
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Wedding Bell Bliss
I was a wedding florist for 15 years, so I have a soft spot for decorative, fanciful designs that celebrate our most memorable moments. With their colorful bows and blooms, corsages make us feel festive and beautiful. And who doesn’t like to feel festive and beautiful? My newest perfumes—Moonlight, Mystère Dévoilé and Flame Brocade—come with lovely little corsages you can wear, made from antique ribbons, flowers and magical whatnots. Visit me at the Purrfumery and select your favorite scent and corsage design! These limited edition scents and corsages also make gorgeous gifts for brides, bridesmaids and for the Mother of the Bride, too! You can also purchase them for less in a little pouch. If you are ordering online, you can specify corsage color ranges, from green/blue, to pink/purple, to burgundy/red.
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Vintage Packaging That You Can Wear
Do you ever see packaging that is so sweet and retro that you want to take it off the box and pin it to your blouse, or wrap it like a ring around your finger? Me too! I have adorned the packaging for all my new perfumes—Moonlight, Flame Brocade and Mystère Dévoilé—with art that you can wear. I make each corsage and ring with my collection of antique ribbons, flowers, and magical whatnots! These handmade decorations harken back to the days when perfume was a gift from the inside out—everything from the bottle to the packaging was cherished long after the perfume was gone.
My new Corsage Perfumes are available in delightful Starlight boxes with whimsical corsage rings or pins, and opulent sterling silver jewel boxes with pin-on or wrist hand-tied corsages. These are perfect gifts for collectors looking for one-of-a-kind gifts that will never be available again. Adorn yourself in more ways than one! Please note when purchasing if you want a ring or pin-on corsage.
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A Treat for Your Host or Hostess
Are you looking for something special for a friend or hostess on one of your summer stops? Rich, botanical solid perfumes make sumptuous gifts, and I have many scents for you to choose from. I spin my solid perfumes into a variety of containers, from cute compacts to glimmering, jewel-top boxes. They arrive at your doorstep ready to hit the road in velvet pouches with a rhinestone buckle. You will love giving these beautiful and unforgettable gifts!
Moonlight, Mystère Dévoilé and Flame Brocade solids are packaged in ornate gold boxes with a vintage corsage. They are also available in a velvet pouch.
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Looking for a Summer Scent?
If you’re like me, you like to change your perfume with the seasons. I createdEze with summer in my mind and heart. Eze is a tiny perfume village high in the mountains overlooking the Mediterranean. I went there over 40 years ago—at that time I was traveling around the south of France, searching for lace for my antique camisole business. I stopped in Grasse and Eze, two perfume capitals of the world, because I loved perfume... I never imagined in my wildest dreams that I would become a perfumer many years later! My namesake eau de parfum captures the enchantment of Eze and the delicious luxury of a summer breeze off the Mediterranean. It opens with a fresh pop of lemon and unveils a gentle bouquet of lavender, rose geranium, myrtle and jasmine, finishing with the healing warmth of Labdanum rock rose.
Ida Meister from Fragrantica reviewed Eze when I launched it in 2016 and she commented on its easy-going vibe. “If someone would offer me a hammock slung between two olive trees, that would be the ticket.”
Enjoy your summer, my dear Purrfumery friends!
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Visit the Purrfumery
Do you need help selecting the perfect scent for yourself or someone you love? Please let me know if you’d like to come over for a cup of tea and a shopping spree. I would love to see you. Call me at 510-334-8824 or email laurie@purrfumery.com.
Until next time,
Peace, love, purrfume and kitty cats
XOXO
Laurie
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Posted by LAURIE STERN on April 12, 2019 · Leave a Comment
Greetings, my dear Purrfumery friends!
The Perfumer’s Garden has gone wild! Talk about a Super Bloom! The irises, tulips, freesia and jasmine are fluttering their petals in the wind and sharing their glorious scent with the world. The 30-foot wall of jasmine along our driveway is in full celebration and I swear to goodness their scent has the power to transform my state of mind. This spring, let’s all rejoice in the uplifting and soul-healing gift of scent!
Inspired by my driveway
Our wall of jasmine not only transforms my state of mind, it also inspires me. Years ago, my cousin stood there surrounded by jasmine, inhaling deeply, and she said, “Oh my god Laurie, you need to make a perfume and call it Driveway!” Mystère Dévoilé is that perfume. “A mystery unveiled.” It’s lush and floral, and unfurls generous notes of Indian jasmine, Italian blood orange and Lisbon lemon before finding its heart in hints of fruity Chinese osmanthus and orris butter. It’s a perfect springtime perfume, and it’s a solid, so very easy to carry in your purse or pocket.
Spring Fling 15% off of your order! Mother’s Day is May 12
From now until April 25th, I will be offering 15% off on your orders! Type in LILAC in the discount box.
This is the perfect time to shop for the mothers in your life and the people who share their love the way only moms can.
Order now, my dear Purrfumery friends! I will be taking a break from shipping from May 1-23 to tend to a creative project that needs my full attention.

Vintage Packaging… that You Can Wear!
Do you ever see packaging that is so sweet and retro that you want to take it off the box and pin it to your blouse, or wrap it like a ring around your finger? Me too! I have adorned the packaging for all my new perfumes—Moonlight, Flame Brocade and Mystère Dévoilé—with art that you can wear. I make each corsage and ring with my collection of antique ribbons, flowers, and magical whatnots! These handmade decorations harken back to the days when perfume was a gift from the inside out—everything from the bottle to the packaging was cherished long after the perfume was gone.
My new Corsage Perfumes are available in delightful Starlight boxes with whimsical corsage rings or pins, and opulent sterling silver jewel boxes with pin-on or wrist hand-tied corsages. These are perfect gifts for collectors looking for one-of-a-kind gifts that will never be available again. Adorn yourself in more ways than one! Please note when purchasing if you want a ring or pin-on corsage.

Request for Spirit Perfumer Classes
I’ve had a few Purrfumery friends ask me about my Spirit Perfume class and when I might be teaching it again. I’m thinking of doing something at the Purrfumery in June—this would likely be a 4-hour class and we’d take a break for lunch in the Perfumer’s Garden. We’d be making our own Spirit Perfumes in liquid form, conjuring the scents that speak to us most from my collection of rare and exquisite natural materials. I’m thinking maybe we could do a Phase 2 later in the fall where we’d create a solid perfume using concretes and unique materials that, once they’re gone, will never be available again. What do you think, my dear Purrfumery friends? What dates could work for you in June for a Spirit Perfumery class? And how many of you would be interested in continuing with a solid perfume class later in the year? Send me some dates, and stay tuned!
Visit the Purrfumery
Do you need help selecting the perfect scent for yourself or someone you love? Please let me know if you’d like to come over for a cup of tea and a shopping spree. I’m around and would love to see you. Call me at 510-334-8824 or email laurie@purrfumery.com.
Thank you all, my dear Purrfumery friends!
Until next time,
Peace, love, purrfume and kitty cats
Posted by LAURIE STERN on January 22, 2019 · Leave a Comment
Greetings, dear Purrfumery friends!
There’s a chill in the air, rain in the sky and love in my heart as we get closer to Valentine’s Day! February 14 has always been my favorite day of the year. It’s a day when we open our hearts to love – and not just romantic love, but the fondness and care we feel for everyone in our lives. It’s a perfect day for a paper Valentine, a bouquet, a sweet treat, or a scented treasure from Velvet & Sweet Pea’s Purrfumery!
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Free shipping on your early Valentines!
Celebrate someone you love this year with my hand-crafted scented delights – maybe it’s just a little something, like a hydrosol, beard balm, or something Kittylicious. Or maybe it’s a luxurious anddecadent bottle of Honey parfum or a gift certificate. I will wrap whatever you choose in gorgeous, elaborate packaging… and ship it free until January 31. Just type CORSAGE in the discount box.
Let’s all toast to love! I love you my dear Purrfumery friends!
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New solid wins praise with Cafleurebon
Late last year, I unveiled three new solid perfumes – Moonlight, Mystère Dévoilé and Flame Brocade – at Perfumariē in Soho, New York. Moonlight is intensely floral with Indian jasmine, Madagascar ylang ylang and Egyptian carnation and inspired by the magical, luminous Orientals of the 1920s. Mystère Dévoilé – or “a mystery unveiled” – is also lush and floral, with notes of Indian jasmine, Italian blood orange, Lisbon lemon and a heart full of Chinese osmanthus and orris butter. And Flame Brocade… it opens with the spicy warmth of antique cinnamon and black pepper and evolves into a narcotic blend of sultry frangipani and tuberose. What a thrill it was to read the review of Flame Brocade by Ida Meister, Senior Editor and Natural Perfumery Editor at Cafleurebon. Thank you, Ida for your beautiful writing!
I have all three of my new solids available as samples for you to try. Already know which one you love? Well I have news for you! Keep reading…
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A bouquet just for you!
For years I have been collecting rhinestones, baubles and all kinds of ornaments for my fancy-work projects. The other day I was packaging one of my new solids, and I pulled out my fancy-work boxes and started daydreaming about all the corsages I made when I had my flower business. Before I knew it, I had a sweet little corsage in my hand, and I decided to make more!
It’s a little gift just for you, my dear Purrfumery friends… Each order of Moonlight, Mystère Dévoilé and Flame Brocade arrives with a lovely unique little corsage you can wear, made from antique ribbons, flowers, and magical whatnots! Enjoy!
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Sniff and sample to your heart’s delight
Let me know if you’d like to come over for a cup of tea and a shopping spree. I’m around and would love to see you. Call me at 510-334-8824 or email laurie@purrfumery.com.
Thank you all, my dear Purrfumery friends!
Until next time,
Peace, love, purrfume and kitty cats
Xoxo, Laurie
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Posted by LAURIE STERN on December 20, 2018 · Leave a Comment
Dearest Purrfumery friends,
Thank you so much for your love and support of Velvet & Sweet Pea’s this year. It’s been a turbulent year for me and for many others, and it heals me to create and share my work. I hope that my perfumery treats have brought you peace, relaxation and pleasure – that is my greatest desire! I am deeply grateful to you for being a part of the Purrfumery.
Hugs and best wishes for a lovely holiday and a fabulous New Year!
XOXO ~ Laurie, Buttercup, Truffle, and Kitty Magic




Posted by LAURIE STERN on December 05, 2018 · Leave a Comment
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Greetings, dear Purrfumery friends!
I’ve returned from my trip to New York City and whew! It was an excellent trip and I want to give a big shout out to all my New York Purrfumery friends who visited me at Perfumariē in Soho! It was wonderful to meet some of you for the first time. Thank you for coming to see me!
Before the trip, the kitties and I enjoyed a creative breakthrough. We launched three new perfumes, and we made a new version of Fir-ever Young – a solid that’s just divine. And, with the help of our wonderful graphic designer Emerald, we created Grateful Dead-style Purrfumery posters that I took with me to New York. It was a blast! I will tell you more in a minute, but first…
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We’re having a SALE!
From now until December 12th, I am offering 15% off on all Purrfumery products in honor of the holiday season. Just type SPRUCE in the discount box. This is an excellent opportunity to share the Purrfumery with friends and family… and don’t forget about yourself! You like holiday gifts too, don’t you? All purchases over $100 will receive a Purrfumery poster too!
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Our glorious new Limited Edition solid perfumes
So much to explore! Let me know if you’d like to come over for a cup of tea to sniff and sample these or other Purrfumery treats! Call me at 510-334-8824 or email laurie@purrfumery.com.
I use my beautiful antique millinery collection to package my new Limited Edition perfumes – delicate violets and leaves adorn all the pouches. And all of these perfumes are available in my new Starlight box, as well as the sterling silver jewel box. Here we go!
Flame Brocade : I worked on this for years! It is a true labor of love…and a truly limited edition – very small batch. Flame Brocade opens with the spicy warmth of antique cinnamon and black pepper and evolves into a narcotic blend of sultry frangipani and tuberose. A vanilla sandalwood base mingles with heady floral and spice notes and completes this luscious and unforgettable scent. I am offering Flame Brocade in liquid and solid – all are parfum strength.
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Mystère Dévoilé : This perfume honors Gary, my landscape architect husband. Years ago he planted a 40-foot wall of jasmine along our driveway. In the spring and summer, our driveway is an incredible place to be – the scent from our lemon tree mingles with the gorgeous aura of jasmine. My cousins told me I should make a perfume that captures the magical, completely over-the-top scent of my driveway when everything is in bloom. Mystère Dévoilé is that perfume. “A mystery unveiled.” This perfume was my coming home after a difficult period. It’s lush and floral, and unfurls generous notes of Indian jasmine, Italian blood orange and Lisbon lemon before finding its heart in hints of fruity Chinese osmanthus and orris butter. I love this perfume and I hope you will too!
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Moonlight : This scent was inspired by the Orientals of the 1920s. It is rich, magical and luminous, and reminds me of that incredible era of artistry and luxury. Moonlight is intensely floral, with a citrus opening and a heart set in an accord of Indian jasmine, Madagascar ylang ylang and Egyptian carnation. A base of aged patchouli and deep, gorgeous sandalwood mingles with spicy carnation notes to carry this perfume to its lavish finish. It’s warm and rich and very beautiful!
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Fir-ever Young solid perfume, first ever!
I have made a Limited Edition of Fir-ever Young in a solid perfume for the first time ever! This is one of my best sellers and gorgeous for this season. It’s based on fir balsam, black currant buds, and jasmine. Divine. It was in Oprah Magazine a few years ago!
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New batch of Jewelry of Heaven solid perfume!
There is also a new batch of Jewelry of Heaven solid perfume, and this one is an even richer version than the original!
All of these new solid perfumes are about 25% less expensive than the other solid perfumes on my website because they are not on the collectors website yet. They will be available at this price only for a limited time.
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Whipped Frostings back in stock, get them while they last!
I just hand-blended a new batch of Whipped Frostings to help you banish dry skin this season. These luxuriously scented Whipped Frostings moisturize your skin with a combination of organic oils that are rich in antioxidants and high in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids for regenerative, anti-aging power. I love to spritz on a hydrosol first and then lock in the moisture with a frosting. We have Black Cat, Gardenia, Orange Blossom and Kashmir Rose Whipped Frostings—try them all!
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My life today and tomorrow
Life changes mean we must ebb and flow. Over the last few years, I discovered my true passion – to develop limited edition perfumes andcustom, signature scents for my Purrfumery friends. These are incredible opportunities for me – they are luscious creative journeys. And when I start these journeys, whether it’s mixing a limited edition or creating a custom scent, I need to step away for a few days, sometimes longer. That means some of my other Purrfumery tasks, like packaging and shipping, move a few days down the line. It’s all me, my dear Purrfumery friends! My staff consists of the kitties (they’re the muse, but not great at tying ribbons, only running off with them!) and Emerald my graphic designer. In 2019 there may be some weeks where I am not shipping because I am on a brief creative journey. I will always let you know on my website if there is going to be a delay. And if you have a perfume emergency (these happen – I have clients who can’t be without their Jasmine Tuberose solid, or their Rose hydrosol!) you know you can always email me and I will help you!
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Helping the Camp Fire victims
I left for the East Coast while the fires were still burning. I was horrified to see the smoke in the air – we were scrambling to see if there was some way to protect our birds in our outdoor aviary. And I was overwhelmed by the casualties I heard about. I’m so sorry this happened, and I want to help. For the month of December, I am donating a portion of all Purrfumery purchases to help the animal victims of the Camp Fire. Hundreds of animals were injured and need homes, and shelters are working hard to help them. This relief effort will be going on for some time – I’m sure this will be the first of many donations from the Purrfumery.
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Thank you all, my dear Purrfumery friends!
Happy Holidays! Wishing you great love and joy!
Until next time,
Peace, love, purrfume and kitty cats
Xoxo, Laurie
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Posted by LAURIE STERN on October 15, 2018 · Leave a Comment
Greetings my dear Purrfumery friends!
I just returned from the most amazing conservationist safari to Africa! I am still basking in the glow—we were guests in the home of elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests and many other animals who live along the Kenyan savannas. We met the Masai Mara and spent a day in their village. It was the most invigorating, exciting and peaceful experience of my life and I brought home many new ideas for how I can make a difference for animals and the environment in my own community and in the Purrfumery.
Snapshots from Africa
Here are my top three life-changing experiences from my safari in Africa.

Ambroseli National Park and Amboseli Trust for Elephants
This is where Cynthia Moss researched elephants for her book, Elephant Memories. Over the years, she has documented the lives of almost 3,000 elephants in the longest running study of elephants ever undertaken. From her book I learned about elephants’ understanding of death, the way they mourn, celebrate birth, and how they live in matriarchal societies. Grandmothers, mothers, sisters and aunts raise their babies and stick together—when I read this book 30 years ago it changed my life! My love for these animals deepened and I knew we needed to help them—elephants could become extinct very soon if people do not stop killing them.
In the park we watched in awe as 102 family members marched by us on their way to the river. The elephants remember Cynthia—she doesn’t live at the trust all the time anymore, but when she visits, the elephants know and stop by the research center to greet her.

Lewa White Rhino
Lewa Conservancy
We visited the Lewa Conservancy and immediately understood why Anthony Bourdain was so inspired by his experience there. The Lewa Conservancy has become a model for conservation in Kenya and Africa. They are so effective because they go beyond protecting and managing species—they also get involved in the community and educate people about how important wildlife is to our world. The Lewa Conservancy showed us how they are building schools and health clinics, and how they are training people from neighboring tribes to be rangers and help with anti-poaching efforts. Their work has been a huge success in Kenya! There has been no poaching there in almost 5 years! Good news for animals!

Masai Warriors
Meeting the Masai Mara
The Masai Mara tribe was extraordinary! We visited a Masai village and learned about their ancient culture and how they are adapting to the modern world. We went on healing plant walks, with baboons close behind! My husband Gary walked for miles through lion country with his new Masai friend.
My visit to the Masai Mara village assured me that when there are enough resources for everyone, especially wild animals, we can live together. There are so many folks working to help people and animals, so I am hopeful.
I’d like to recommend Lori Robinson, who planned and guided us on this trip. Her books will inspire you and give you hope in this dire time for animals. Her books and blog continually inspire me! She can plan trips or lead you one!
Now that we are home, Gary is working on getting his Masai friends cell phones so they can do their banking, deal with emergencies, and so they can talk with their family in other villages.
Home Sweet Home
My dad remembers a visit we all made to the zoo when I was little. He remembers me standing at the lion enclosure and when someone made a comment that the lions were scary, I told them, “If you don’t hurt them, they won’t hurt you.” That doesn’t mean I don’t have the utmost respect for them and their wildness. But I have always believed that humans must see animals in a different way. Not as a possession or something to be conquered, but as fellow beings who are put on this earth to live in peace. This is one of the most profound lessons that Africa has to teach us all.
Love a Black Cat and Donate 10% to Non-Toxic Revolution

I recently learned about a website called Non-Toxic Revolution—it’s a great source for information about eliminating toxic chemicals in the environment and our food sources. I want to do something to help them, and I invite you to join me! In the spirit of Halloween and this wonderful month of October, I am donating 10% of all sales on my Black Cat Kittylicious and Black Cat Velvet Collection to Non-Toxic Revolution. This is a purrrrrfect opportunity to experience one of my most popular scents and help promote Non-Toxic Revolution’s mission.
California Blazes a Trail to Eliminating Animal Testing
Our hard work is paying off! In September, California Gov. Jerry Brown signed legislation that will prohibit the sale of cosmetics that have been tested on animals. Once the law goes into effect on January 1, 2020, California stores will no longer be able to sell cosmetics that contain ingredients that are newly tested on animals. There are a few exceptions, but overall, it’s an excellent step toward protecting animals! The Humane Society of the United States has more info here.
Get Ready for the Holidays—Visit the Purrfumery!
I’m available for private appointments, so give me a call at 510-334-8824 or drop me an email at laurie@purrfumery.com and let’s get together for a cup of tea at the Purrfumery! You can sniff and sample to your heart’s content, get a jump start on your holiday shopping, or stock up on your favorites.
Until next time. . .
Peace, love, purrfume and kitty cats,
Posted by LAURIE STERN on July 19, 2018 · Leave a Comment
Greetings, my dear Purrfumery friends!
The mid-summer sun and the breezes off San Francisco Bay have transformed the Perfumer’s Garden into a blooming paradise. And, where there is a bloom, there is a hummingbird! These very busy little birds are in the garden from sun up to sundown, dashing in for sips of nectar. The Sage and Nicotiana flowers are their favorites these days… I could sit in the garden all day and watch them dance and hover. I have become a little bit like a hummingbird too, with my daily trips to the blackberry bush. It’s been a delicious summer so far!
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Mid-Summer Dream Sale – 25% off everything!
The warm weather brings a change in our wardrobe—we’re wearing our florals and pastels, our flowy dresses and sandals. Why not change your perfume, too? Through the end of July only, I’m offering 25% off everything in the Purrfumery—go ahead and try something new! Just type in FLOWERS in the discount box. Need ideas? I love to wear scents with jasmine and roses in summer. One of my favorites is Honey, with its French orange blossom and Moroccan and Bulgarian roses. Jewelry of Heaven is another gorgeous summer scent—I blend this one with Jasmine grandiflorum, Turkish and Himalayan roses, sandalwood, vetiver and vintage patchouli. When I’m looking for something fresh and complex, I go for Eze from the Kittylicious line, with its pop of lemon that opens a bouquet of lavender, rose geranium, myrtle and jasmine.
Purrfumery scents, body oil, scent lockets and beard balms also make unique and thoughtful host gifts if you’re on the road. Don’t miss this summer sale!
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Animal Cruelty Policy Watch
I’ve been keeping a close eye on the progress of SB 1249, which would make it illegal for cosmetic manufacturers to knowingly import or sell any cosmetic, including personal hygiene products, in California if the final product or any component of the product was tested on animals after January 1, 2020. I’m thrilled to report that SB 1249 passed the California Senate and the California Assembly Judiciary Committee, and is now awaiting a vote on the Assembly floor. This would be a huge win for animals who have been subjected to poking, prodding and testing that maims or kills them. I recently wrote a letter along with other concerned citizens in support of SB 1249 – these letters will eventually be delivered to Governor Jerry Brown. We’re speaking up for animals and demanding change! I believe it is the right thing to do.
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Purrfumery Staff is Doing Some Amazing Things!
I want to introduce you to Truffle Bear—the newest member of the Purrfumery workforce! My friend Lisa discovered Truffle Bear by accident—she was trying to trap several cats to spay and neuter them and was pleasantly surprised to find a kitten in the group. She invited me over one afternoon and there he was! I instantly fell in love with this wild little boy! He’s all over the place and inspires all sorts of fun and creativity in the Purrfumery! It’s a breath of fresh air to have a kitten again after all these years.
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I also want to give a shout out to Emerald, the talented designer who does all of our graphics in the Purrfumery. I put her to work on my remodel project, and she’s making incredible progress on the mural across my kitchen cabinets. It’s a parade of kitties, birds and butterflies in a garden! Thank you Emerald for bringing your colorful, imaginative touch to our kitchen! We spend so much time there… why not make it beautiful?
If you are looking for someone to paint a signboard, mural, or do some graphic design Emerald is your gal! You can contact her at Emeraldvl@gmail.com .
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Come see me at the Purrfumery!
I’m available for private appointments, so give me a call at 510-334-8824 or drop me an email at laurie@purrfumery.com and let’s get together for a cup of tea at the Purrfumery! You can sniff and sample to your heart’s content and find something new and wonderful, or stock up on your favorites.
Until next time. . .
Peace, love, purrfume and kitty cats,
Xoxo, Laurie
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Posted by LAURIE STERN on May 03, 2018 · Leave a Comment
Greetings, dear Purrfumery friends.
Everywhere I look in the Perfumer’s Garden, I see life and color. The bees are foraging, the birds are feeding their babies, and every flower is blooming. Spring is a season of change. Our family changed forever in March, when we lost our beautiful mom very suddenly. Since the moment she left this world, we have felt as if the ground was pulled away… and now we’re trying to find our footing again. We’re missing her every moment of every day, and we’re honoring her by spending time together, remembering her kind and thoughtful ways and how she made us feel so loved.

Mother’s Day is May 13. It has always been a time of celebration for us, but this year, we join those who have lost their moms, grandmas, and the women who provided a very unique love. We share a quiet sadness and understanding.
What an incredible gift it is to have a mom, and to be one, too. We continue to feel our mom’s love all around us and to see her in every rose and bluebird. She’s here, even though she’s gone, and that’s the mystery of it all.

We send our love to moms everywhere.
Until next time…
Peace, love, purrfume, and kitty cats,
XOXO~ Laurie
Posted by LAURIE STERN on February 04, 2018 · Leave a Comment
Greetings, dear Purrfumery friends!

Valentine’s Day is just a few days away! It’s my favorite holiday of the year, and I have all my valentines ready!
Our newest line… The Velvet Collection!
We have a wonderful new line – The Velvet Collection – that I launched late last year. The Velvet Collection is Highway, Honey and Black Cat, all in eau de parfum. These Purrfumery favorites are available in two new sizes – 15 and 30 ml. And this is the debut of Black Cat in a base of organic, vanilla-infused alcohol! Previously, Black Cat was only available in a jojoba oil dilution. I also created new packaging and labels for these distinct formulations… think sequins and satin and velvet! It’s the ultimate valentine… a luscious, artisanal scent that is beautifully appointed and packaged with love.

20% off everything in February
There is a story behind this sale…
I am delighted to share that Velvet & Sweet Pea’s perfumes have become collector’s items! They are being sought out for their delightful composition, creative use of rare and exquisite ingredients, and whimsical aesthetic that pays homage to the Golden Age of Perfumery. For me this is a dream come true, as I have always considered the making of perfume – from sourcing and formulation to bottling and presentation – to be an artistic endeavor. Now you have one more reason to cherish your Velvet & Sweet Pea perfumes, as they may increase in value over time!
This is one of the many reasons I recently raised my perfume prices for the first time in a decade. Another reason is that many of the raw materials I use are no longer available, or have become much more costly. In 2000, I could buy a gorgeous Bulgarian rose Otto for $100 an ounce. Today, I often see the same Bulgarian rose for $500 to $1,000 per ounce. Everything I use is carefully harvested and distilled, and cruelty free. There is so much care and effort put into every natural material I buy.
So, for the rest of February, as my Valentine to you, I am offering 20% off all Purrfumery products. Please type in VALENTINE in the discount box. Take your time, look through the site and find your little treasure. Make an appointment and let’s have a cup of tea and sample something you’ve been wanting.
Call me at 510-334-8824 or drop me an email at laurie@purrfumery.com! You can sniff and sample to your heart’s content!

Happy Valentine’s Day to you and yours!
Until next time. . .
Peace, love, purrfume and kitty cats,
XOXO~Laurie