olfactive library

HISTOIRES DE PARFUMS

In 2000, after a solid training at ISIPCA, the French school for higher education in perfumery, he authorizes himself and embarks on a project that has ultimately always been: developing his own line of perfume. At a time when niche perfumery (or designer perfumery, as opposed to mainstream perfumery) is still in its early stages, with brands such as By Killian, Le Labo, Frédéric Malle, etc., Gérald Ghislain founds Histoires de Parfums.

He creates a collection of perfumes that reflect his personality, rich in temperament and distinctly romantic.

NEW INSPIRATION

OLIBANUM

In 2020, the lockdown happens. “Like everyone, I probably felt disoriented at first, but I must also admit that for me, bewilderment quickly gave way to productive introspection. Naturally, I came to ask myself this question: if I were to create a brand today, how would I do it? If I had to take into account the circumstances that allow me the time to ask this question, what would I want to talk about, what would I pay attention to?”...

In 2022, Olibanum is launched; it is a brand driven by the values of simplicity, consciousness and commitment, taking into account environmental concerns. Simplicity is reflected in clean, immediately identifiable fragrances that can be easily combined. Every element of the product follows a “reasonable” logic: the goal is to do the best possible to minimize the impact on the environment.

Natural raw materials come from preservation programs and/or community return initiatives. The commitment is to participate in projects that support these communities.

concept of «raisonnable»

In just 20 years of existence, despite the strong emergence of niche perfume brands, Gérald Ghislain has managed to sustain his company and brands in this industry. Histoires de Parfums is considered a pioneering brand, acclaimed for its independence and creative freedom, while Olibanum is seen as a new gem that appeals to those who appreciate modern perfumes with an engaged and responsible approach.

Today, after yet another journey around the world, Gérald is relocating to the United States to closely sense the latest trends and explore the concept of «raisonnable» in all its essence. “Raisonnable” and not “sustainable,” as he likes to emphasize, he finds the notion more honest, as being “sustainable” in the strict sense would mean stopping everything to cultivate vegetables.

At almost 60 years old, Gérald Ghislain is, more than ever, committed to being reasonable in how he anticipates the production of his company, yet he incorrigibly strives to remain unreasonable when it comes to creativity.