I studied complementary therapy, training as an aromatherapist. I was always experimenting with natural essential oils to concoct my own perfumes. It has taken me around 10 years to learn the process of perfume making and it has been difficult but also very enjoyable.

There is no right or wrong way to create a perfume, because everyone is different. I like to encourage perfume makers to experiment and create their own unique blend, something that suits them. One woman had 15 blends in a single perfume!

When it comes to choosing fragrance, the most important tip I could give would be to test the perfume on your own skin. Your skin's natural protective oils react with the fragrance and give you a better sense of whether it suits you or not. Waving a paper strip under your nose won't work because it's not you!