Creating Walk with Me: Insights and inspirations by Chester Gibs
We sat down with the creative mind behind the perfume Walk with Me, Chester Gibs. As an olfactory artist, Chester takes us on a journey through his creation process and shares insights into his inspirations.
Were there any ingredients in this fragrance that you’re particularly proud of using?
The use of kaffir lime leaves. Although it’s there just in the opening, it’s key to what I wanted to express in the perfume. Originally, I also added tuberose, because I love tuberose. But I decided to leave it out because the flower didn’t elevate the perfume.
How does this fragrance stand out from others in the niche perfume market? What makes it unique?
I think it’s an unusual citrus scent. It fits into that category, but also doesn’t. It’s not a typical citrus because of the creamy undertone. People’s reactions vary a lot, and they often can’t pinpoint what they’re smelling.
What emotions or sensations do you hope people feel when they wear your perfume?
I hope it makes people happy and maybe even lifts their spirits when they’re feeling down. It has a sunny character, even in cold weather.
Can you describe the character of this perfume?
Glowing, contrasting, optimistic. It’s both an energetic and relaxing perfume.
Were there any ingredients in this fragrance that you’re particularly proud of using?
The use of kaffir lime leaves. Although it’s there just in the opening, it’s key to what I wanted to express in the perfume. Originally, I also added tuberose, because I love tuberose. But I decided to leave it out because the flower didn’t elevate the perfume.
How does this fragrance stand out from others in the niche perfume market? What makes it unique?
I think it’s an unusual citrus scent. It fits into that category, but also doesn’t. It’s not a typical citrus because of the creamy undertone. People’s reactions vary a lot, and they often can’t pinpoint what they’re smelling.
What emotions or sensations do you hope people feel when they wear your perfume?
I hope it makes people happy and maybe even lifts their spirits when they’re feeling down. It has a sunny character, even in cold weather.
Can you describe the character of this perfume?
Glowing, contrasting, optimistic. It’s both an energetic and relaxing perfume.
What connects you with your perfume?
Travel. From the first stages of perfecting it during the cold winter with lots of snow in New York City to wearing the final version in Thailand with hot weather.
Chester Gibs and Francesca Bianchi
If you could teach a class on any topic related to perfumery, what would it be?
It would be about scent, emotion, and awareness. I believe you should experience a fragrance rather than break it down into components. It’s about the overall feeling; why you want or don’t want to wear a particular perfume. I want people to be more aware of their connection to a fragrance, rather than just smelling it technically.
If you were a perfume ingredient, what would you be and why?
Something salty or animalic. Indole. Yes, I find indole both attractive and repelling. Everything you smell is exciting.
