We chat to perfumier Chandrika Thomas about finding that signature wedding-day scent, capable of triggering a lifetime of memories Visionary and creative force behind fragrance house Chandrika Thomas London, Chandrika herself, has a background undeniably rooted in weddings. Having received a grant from The Prince’s Trust at the tender age of 18, she set out on her journey into the world of wedding couture. It was an investment in her future allowing her to transform her passion for designing bespoke wedding dresses into a flourishing business. Over the next two decades, Chandrika dedicated herself to creating exquisite wedding gowns for brides across the UK, but today her former bridal boutique in Kew looks very different. Now a haven for fine fragrances, it’s the home of her business’s current incarnation. Her handson involvement at every stage of crafting bespoke gowns guaranteed that her creations consistently upheld the highest quality, which is a commitment she’s carried into the world of fine fragrances, where each scent is crafted with the same dedication and precision. Our beauty and wellness editor, Kelly Andrews, was excited to catch up with Chandrika recently to ask everything we’d always wanted to know about finding that perfect signature bridal fragrance and falling in love with a scent that’s truly you. How did you discover your true passion and come to make the move into perfumery? My journey into perfumery was an evolution of my creative passion. Designing wedding dresses brought me immense joy, but I always knew that to truly grow, I needed to embrace change and explore new avenues. The world of fragrances opened a new door for me. I saw an opportunity to continue creating beauty and preserving memories but in a different way. Perfumes, like wedding dresses, hold the power to encapsulate emotions and moments. The scent can transport you back to a special time, just as slipping on a bespoke gown could. In perfumery, I found a new canvas to express my artistry, allowing me to craft timeless fragrances that tell personal stories. Now, I’m creating fragrances that people can carry with them throughout their lives, evoking memories and emotions along the way. It’s a natural extension of my journey. What did you learn while overcoming the challenges of dyslexia and ADHD to become a successful thriving business woman? I’ve discovered that embracing and leveraging our neurodivergent traits can be incredibly empowering. So, my advice is to start by deeply understanding yourself and recognising your strengths and weaknesses, and how they influence your approach to life. Embrace your differences as strengths rather than viewing them as limitations. Neurodiversity brings valuable qualities that can set you apart and offer unique perspectives. Focus on understanding and building upon your strengths. At the same time, acknowledge areas where you might need support and develop strategies to address them. Whether it involves seeking assistance from others, using specialised tools, or finding adaptive methods, making a plan to navigate challenges can significantly enhance your ability to thrive. Stay connected with supportive networks and utilise available resources. With a deep understanding of your own needs and capabilities, you’ll find ways to adapt and excel. Remember, selfacceptance and leveraging your unique traits are crucial. With the right mindset and support, success is not just possible, it’s truly guaranteed. How do you ensure your fragrances are eco-conscious? This is at the heart of our mission. We prioritise sustainability in every aspect of our process, from sourcing to packaging. We meticulously choose fine botanical ingredients from ethical suppliers who provide SCENT-SATIONAL Simply 84
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