Jo Malone Master Class

Fragrance is intensely personal and should be as unique as the individual wearing it...

I recently had the pleasure of attending a Master Class hosted by David Ponce, Educational Director of Jo Malone London. I wasn't sure what to expect but I instinctively knew if Jo Malone fragrances were involved, this was going to be a very special event.

The moment I walked into the room I was captivated and when I saw the beautifully arranged product display, the flickering candlelight, the assortment of healthy tea sandwiches, organic teas and other delicious offerings I was filled with excitement and anticipation for what was about to happen and I was not disappointed!

Jo Malone Product Display

Tea Buffet

The presentation began with Mr. Ponce regaling us with stories about the creator, Ms. Jo Malone. He spoke of her humble beginnings in Kent, England, and of the inspirations behind each of the special fragrances in the Jo Malone brand. He held us at rapt attention with an amazing combination of Latin good-looks, extensive product knowledge and his fiery passion for all things Jo Malone. 

As he shared the story of each scent, fragrance strips were given to the guests so we could get a whiff of the alluring blends and be instantly transported to the time and place of the scent's inspiration. After the presentation, Mr. Ponce and the other hosts helped each guest choose fragrances to create their own signature scent. I chose two of my absolute favorites: English Pear & Freesia Cologne and Blue Agava & Cacao Bath Oil. Individually, both scents are amazing but combined, they are down right intoxicating!

From the very first product created years ago (Nutmeg & Ginger Bath Oil) to the most popular scent in the line today (Lime, Basil & Mandarin), Jo Malone London has taken the art of fragrance combining to a new level. Each fragrance has been created to combine with every other fragrance in the line and with over 20 exquisitely crafted colognes, there are endless options for you to create your own "bespoke" scent.  Guys, don't fret...many of the fragrances are unisex so you will enjoy them too. I highly recommend Blue Agava & Cacao, Pomegranate Noir, Lime, Basil & Mandarin and Black Vetyver Cafe--all very sexy fragrances that will drive the ladies wild.

Jo Malone London Gifts

Jo Malone London has an impressive array of elegant gifts for any occasion--all expertly wrapped in their luxurious black and cream signature packaging. Treat yourself or give Jo Malone London fragrance gifts of distinction. With so many options, you are only as limited as your imagination. If you're in the Baltimore area, stop by the fragrance bar in Nordstrom at Towson Town Center Mall and ask Laura or Seery for a personal fragrance consultation. Tell them I sent you. :>)

To Gift or Not to Gift?

To gift or not to gift is the question. The answer to that would depend on the individuals involved. Psychological studies show there are many positive and negative emotional consequences of gift-giving.

Positive emotional consequences can include experiencing the satisfaction of being able to give someone something they've wanted or needed, or showing others that you remember and care about their special events/dates.

Negative emotional consequences can include irritation at spending more money than you should have, hurt feelings of not having your gift reciprocated, realizing the gift you gave freely has made someone feel bad because they cannot reciprocate, or seeing the gift you made/carefully selected end up at the back of someone’s closet or on a table as a "white elephant gift" the following year.

As this gift-giving season gets underway, take a moment to stop and think about what you are doing and why you are doing it.  Prepare a list of the people you would like to give gifts to and make sure you are doing it for the right reasons. Prepare a budget beforehand so you do not spend more than you intended or more than you can afford to spend. It may also be helpful to pay close attention to the recipient—the things they like and don’t like. Find a tactful way to do a little snooping if necessary. This time of year, people often start daydreaming out loud about items they’d love to have so listen and watch carefully. Needless to say your gift will be received a whole lot better if it appears you’ve given some thought to the recipient.

There’s been much debate about whether it is appropriate to give cash as a gift. Again, you have to know your recipient. If they are inclined to think that your giving them cash is a lazy cop out, you may want to shop for an actual gift. On the other hand, if they have been struggling financially as a result of job loss, etc. they may really appreciate a gift of cash. If you decide to give cash gifts, purchase a nicely decorated money envelope, make sure the bills are as clean/crisp as possible, tuck them into the envelope, and write a personal message on the back of the envelope, (“Dear Mark, I know you’ve been saving for a new guitar so here is a little something to help with your purchase. Happy Holidays!”) or something to that effect.

If you decide to opt out of the gift-giving frenzy due to the economy or other reasons, find a tactful way to inform people who would normally expect a gift from you as soon as possible. Also, be prepared to deal with any feelings that may arise from receiving a gift you cannot reciprocate.

The most important thing to remember is that you should always operate from a place of true authenticity. The holidays should be a fun and magical time so do not allow yourself to become stressed out based on what others are doing or expecting. If you decide to participate in gift-giving activities, weigh your options carefully and do what makes you feel good--during the holidays and long after they are gone.

Want ideas on inexpensive handmade gifts from your kitchen? Read my blog post: Handmade Culinary Holiday Gifts.

All I want for Christmas is...

I don't ask for much. For the last four years I've asked for a pair of Mikimoto pearl stud earrings (AAA grade, 6.5mm) and still have not gotten them. This year I'm changing my strategy and my request. Let's see if I make out any better this year...lol. Keeping hope alive :>).

This year, all I want for Christmas is: