Fragrance Alliance Network 'Creator's Series'

Fragrance Alliance Network logo

Since launching last year, the Fragrance Alliance Network has become New York City’s premier destination to learn, create, develop a brand, or immerse oneself in the joy of fragrance. Their series of extensive educational programs delves deep into the nuances of fragrance, understanding and creation, and offers various levels of study, encouraging collaboration and mentorship. In addition to the classes, Special Events are a part of the itinerary. The Creators Series celebrates the fragrance industry’s most inspiring creators. Its inaugural event last October featured Isabelle Larignon. For the second Creator’s Series event, held on February 15th, perfumer Pierre Bénard Ségu presented LILITH, Sombre Héroïne. Daisy Bow, Ph.D., Perfume History Researcher -Educator and part-time assistant professor of French at the Fashion Institute of Technology and the New School in New York City, moderated both events.

Daisy Bow, Moderator and Pierre Bénard Ségu, Perfumer at the Fragrance Alliance Network Creator’s Series

The Fragrance Alliance Network hour-long session, including a Q&A portion, was comprehensive. Daisy Bow began by inquiring about Pierre Bénard Ségu’s background. Pierre is a member of the International Society of Perfumers and Creators, an expert in natural raw materials for perfumery, and the olfactory artistic director of OSMOART, where he has developed olfactory concepts for the last twenty years. As a biochemist and alchemist, his passion for scents led him to the world of fragrances. An extensive experience in perfume design and the art of scenting spaces and events led him to collaborate with renowned brands and artists on olfactory scenography. Pierre continued his education in perfumery, graduating from the University of Science and Technology in Montpellier with a degree in Perfume, Aroma, and Cosmetics. He refined his skills at the Grasse Institute of Perfumery, where he naturally transitioned into the perfume industry working with leading companies like Robertet, Payan Bertrand, and Capua.

Pierre Bénard Ségu presents LILITH, Sombre Héroïne

“Tuberose is my emblem. I fell madly in love with it. For the perfumer that I am, it represents all the flowers. And for the man that I am, She represents all women.”

Daisy Bow queried him for the inspiration behind LILITH, the challenges of its creation, and development. It was through his French brand OZPARFUM that Pierre penned this billet-doux to tuberose through a crowdfunding campaign that lasted 35 days, last year. It served as a means to support the production of this first fragrance, its porcelain bottle and its packaging. The Apocalypse bottle (the name that Pierre christened it with) has a capacity of 125 ml and is presented in a flower-shaped case named “Hana,” containing four photographic cards that describe the perfume.

LILITH, Sombre Héroïne packaging

LILITH, constructed like a soliflore (a single floral aroma) around a heart of tuberose (Polianthes tuberosa) which in Japanese means that the flower smells under the moon, is Pierre’s signature flower. Similar to a floral bouquet, the epicenter of this tuberose is adorned with notes of roses, an Indian jasmine, orangey and exotic flowers. Pierre composed a basic accord between a fractionated essential oil of Indian cardamom, a cold spice, and a menthol molecule. To present the spirit of Lilith, the samples give a dose of this “perfect drug” that is contained in a breakable ampoule that allows its inhalation and application. Samples were passed around to attendees to take in. Lilith is a testament of Pierre Bénard Ségu’s skill to straddle tradition and innovation. The fragrance combines natural essences with a modern approach, resulting in a classic contemporary scent. LILITH was reviewed by Nicoleta here and was awarded a Best of Scent 2024 by Ermano, who wrote, “When a sublime inspirational imagery meets masterful craftsmanship in a daring olfactory shape, a perfume lover can’t help but rejoice greatly, as it has already garnered attention for its artistry and emotional depth”.

Daisy Bow: Perfume History Researcher -Educator, Pierre Bénard Ségu: Perfumer, Educator, Gus Romero: Founder-Perfumer-Educator, and Karen Dubin: Sniffapalooza Founder-Educator

Thanks to Daisy Bow for her knowledge in drawing out the best in perfumers.

In addition to tonight’s Creator’s Series event, Pierre also taught a two-day class on Space Scenting, a session on sandalwood, and another on agarwood.

Lillith can be purchased online at OSMOART

Upcoming Special Events:

April 4th – Creator’s Series with Mane Perfumer Ugo Charron

Buy Tickets here

April 6th – Sweet Scents & Stories – A Fragrant Workshop for Young Explorers with Alexis Wintrop

Buy Tickets here

Hernando Courtright ~ Senior Events Contributor and Brand Ambassador