Meet our perfumer - Jordan Sarica
Jordan's journey to perfumery is truly inspirational. Originally from France, he spent many years in the UK and Canada before returning to southern France. Jordan holds a Ph.D. in physical chemistry and spent many years working for personal care companies before he decided to pursue his childhood dream of becoming a professional perfumer. He now works as a perfumer at Concept Aromatique and as an educator at GIP (Grasse Institute of Perfumery). The red thread throughout his life and career is to create beautiful products for people. Jordan Sarica is our nose for “SKATT”.
Sonja: Many people might not be familiar with the journey of becoming a perfumer. Can you share with us what inspired you to choose this career and the path you took? Were there any pivotal moments or experiences that led you to wanting to be a perfumer? Could you describe the training and education you underwent to learn your craft?
Jordan: Perfume has been my passion since childhood. Collecting miniature bottles and identifying scents became second nature. The dream of becoming a "Nez" never left me. I took a detour through studying chemistry, and my career led me to various personal care companies, where scent played a crucial role. When my workplace closed in the South of France, it was my pivotal moment towards where I am at now. As I was reaching my forties, and I questioned whether I wanted to continue in my international career. Despite the uncertainty, my heart told me it was time to chase my childhood dream. During my pursuit of becoming a perfumer, I met master perfumer Joëlle Lerioux-Patris who took me under her wing. Along the way I met Frédéric de los Rios at Concept Aromatique who trusted me. I am so grateful for all the wonderful people I've met along my journey
Sonja: If you could time travel, what advice would you give your younger self?
Jordan: I'd say, "Be bold, go. Follow your heart and desires. It will give you the energy to climb. Worrying and doing nothing won't bring your dreams closer. Dedication and grit will be required. You'll find a way to make it happen."
Sonja: How would you describe your fragrance style and philosophy as a perfumer?
Jordan: I'm drawn to frankincense, woody, and spicy notes. My style unites 'yin and yang' energies with delicacy, creating genderless compositions. I'm mindful not to let old habits limit creativity. Balance and harmony are key; each ingredient must play a role.
Sonja: You mentioned earlier that you prefer shorter formulas. Could you tell us a bit more about that?
Jordan: I do prefer shorter formulas, but what matters most is the story you're telling. If it requires more materials to execute your idea, you do so. You reflect on the harmony between ingredients that will make a perfume complete. Sometimes I have a short formula consisting of 15-20 ingredients, sometimes double the amount. A maximum of 50 ingredients. Each composition is unique.
Sonja: Can you share the inspiration behind the Skatt fragrance?
Jordan: Skatt embodies values like treasure, love, and connection. Love, for me, is the essence of everything. It's about connecting with yourself, nature, and others. I translated this into a spring floral bouquet, evoking the feeling of fresh air and joy. Skatt has a bit of magic and mystery to it.
Sonja: Besides perfumery, are there other passions or hobbies that inspire your creativity?
Jordan: I love roller skating. When I put my headphones on and skate along the Promenade des Anglais in Nice, I'm in my own world. It gives me a sense of freedom, flow, and childlike joy. It boosts my creativity, putting me in a crazy, happy state of mind. Also, I'm fond of art - music, painting, movies; everything is a source of inspiration.
Sonja: Do you have a go-to perfume you wear most of the time?
Jordan: I wear my own creations to observe how they develop on the skin. But if I have to give you my top 3, the ones I am truly faithful to, they would be:
Grey Flannel - Geoffrey Beene
Timbuktu - L'Artisan Parfumeur
Dzongka - L'Artisan Parfumeur
