I don't know if I can say more about how wonderful it is to arrive at Mandy Aftel's beautiful studio in Berkeley, California. For a woman who loves the raw materials of perfumery it's the closest thing to heaven. I'm proud of my collection of oils and absolutes that I've assembled, but it pales in comparison to the quantity, quality and desirability of Mandy's scent organ. What a joy to use the finest (and sometimes rarest) materials in their ground glass stoppered bottles and jars.

Mandy collects antique oils as well and displays their original bottles in the window with the gorgeous California light streaming through. It was a visual feast as well as olfactory.

Questions answered, curiosity piqued, inspiration fired up I return to my studio to get to work on new creations. I'm so grateful for the opportunity and for another chance to get to know Mandy a little better. I'm a fan!

Mandy also sells a collection of oils. Let her do the work for you tracking down the best possible materials. Visit her website at aftelier.com.