We would like to wish All of our customers, partners, friends and family a very Happy New Year.
May we all treasure the people and times that we have in our lives.
Wishing you the very best of Health, Happiness and Successes in the New Year.
A New Year, Well Composed
The year turns quietly, as years should do, With measured hope and plans half-drawn in ink. What once was bold learns patience; what was known Invites a second, closer look without a blink.
We thank you for the moments shared, For curiosity, discernment, time. For choosing beauty made with care, Not hurried, loud, or out of rhyme.
May this New Year bring clarity of thought, Good humour when things go astray, And pleasures found in details small— Those lasting far beyond the day.
We look ahead with steady hands, Ideas sharpened, standards high. If all goes well, we shall surprise you. If not, at least we did try.
The New Year, in Notes
The New Year opens like a scent, First impressions, bright and brief. A sparkle of intent on top, Before the deeper truths appear beneath.
Citrus resolves to woods and spice, Ambitions soften, find their place. What promised fireworks learns restraint, And elegance outlasts the race.
We favour blends that take their time, That do not shout to be admired. For character, like fragrance well made, Is built, revised, and then refined.
May this year wear well upon the skin, Balanced, thoughtful, quietly sure. If laughter rises now and then, Consider that an added note, intentional and pure.
After a cold winter, barren of colour and fragrance, we all embrace the joys of Spring when Easter arrives and brings with it the smells and sights of a new season: the Flower Fragrances of Easter.
It is a time of renewal, a time to refresh and a time to start dreaming of those lazy hazy summer days that uplift our mood.
For many today, Easter is dominated by chocolate eggs and as perfumers our thoughts immediately turn toward fragrances with cocoa. However, Easter is also a time to connect with family, start planning activities and throw off the winter clothes to connect more with the outdoors and nature, which naturally leads into the scents and colours of a new season.
The sights, smells and fragrances of Easter greet us like an old friend.
What are your favourite Flower Fragrances of Easter?
Below we present some of the flower fragrances of Easter that get our senses excited for Spring. We are also sharing with you the wonderful fragrances we at Pairfum London have created to bring Spring in to your home to help you create the perfect Easter & Spring atmosphere.
We hope that the flower fragrances of Easter inspire you for the season ahead.
White Lily
Easter Lilies, whose scientific name is Lilium Longiflorum, are perhaps the best-known type of lily and one that we would all recognise.
Easter lilies are native to Japan. World War I soldier Louis Houghton brought Easter Lily bulbs home to share with fellow gardeners in 1919 and the popularity of the flower has grown quickly.
Lilies have held a significant place in world history because of their aroma, grace and beauty. From ancient Crete to the flower shop down the street, people always regard the lily as “the pure flower.”
There are few rivals when it comes to the stunningly beautiful fragrance of Lilies. The exquisite perfume and wonderful flowers certainly lift spirits as we enter Spring.
Daffodil
Daffodils are considered the first heralds of Spring time. They are also known as Narcissus and Jonquil. Narcissus being the botanical name for this bulbous plant of the amaryllis family, Amaryllidaceae!
The stunning daffodil originates from Southern Europe and North Africa, but some varieties can be found in Asia and China. The flower is linked to the Greek myth of Narcissus who became obsessed with his own reflection, that he knelt to gaze in to a pool of water where he toppled in to the water and drowned. The narcissus plant sprang up where he died.
The fragrance of the daffodil is light, cool, and spring-like in its notes. The scent is often sweet, captivating, and unique to only daffodils. These are fragrances that have been treasured since ancient times and ones that remind us of new life and Spring.
Crocus
The Crocus name is derived from the Latin crocatus which means saffron yellow. The flower has three stigmas and parts of it are often dried and used in cooking as a seasons or colour agent. It is native to Southern Europe and Asia. There are about 80 species of crocus and was first cultivated in Greece.
Crocuses that bloom early in spring have cheerful heads, reminding us that Spring is around the corner. With so many varieties to choose from you can have an abundant array of colour and fragrance which is sweet and luminous.
Tulip
The Tulip was originally cultivated in Turkey and then imported in to Holland in the sixteenth century. They became popular in 1592 through a book by Carolus Clusius. Indeed, they became so popular they created an economic bubble known as Tulip Mania!
The scent of Tulips cannot be mistaken. The fragrance is fresh – fresh like the ozone! It also has hints of floral with a base of warm honey and musk. It is almost like nature was making perfume herself within tulips!
Blue Bell
The stunningly beautiful Bluebell is another sign of Spring time with the vast spread of tiny blue flowers dazzling around parks and gardens. This beautiful flower is a protected species in the UK under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.
Also known as wood bells, fairy flowers and wild hyacinth, they have carpeted our woods, and parks for many years. In a 2015 Spring poll by botanical charity Plantlife, bluebells were voted the favourite wild flower of England.
Unfortunately, Blue Bell’s cannot be harvested but we can still enjoy the sweet fragrance when we are out walking. Bluebells are usually at their best during the morning time, making it a fantastic time to visit the woods or parks or when there is some sunshine allowing their scent to waft through the air.
Spring Fragrance by Pairfum London
These are just five of the fragrances of Easter which fill our homes, our gardens, and our parks.
If you would like to fill your home with the stunning fragrance of white lilies and daffodils, we at Pairfum London are delighted that our fragrance Trail of White Petals includes these stunning ingredients and is available in our range of Home Fragrances (candles, reed diffusers, room sprays, fabric sprays,…) and Bath & Body Care products (washes, lotions,…).
Choosing the right perfume for your home to herald the arrival of Spring can be difficult.
Take the guesswork out by ordering the luxury fragrance of Trail of White Petals in your favourite product from our online boutique. Choose from a Reed Diffuser, Perfume Candle, Room Spray or Linen & Fabric Spray.
Whichever you choose, you will be adding the wonderful fragrance of Spring to your home.
In this article we offer inspiration when writing Happy Mother’s Day Wishes & Poems this year.
Below we present:
40 x unique Happy Mother’s Days Wishes and 5 x Poems for you to use.
The results of a survey of what Mum’s love most on Mother’s Day.
40 x Unique Happy Mother’s Day Wishes
Here is a list of 40 x unique Happy Mother’s Day Wishes that you can use for inspiration when thinking about what to write in the card for your Mother:
You are the most amazing mom anyone could ask for. Thank you for always being there for me, no matter what. I love you more than words can say. Happy Mother’s Day!
You are my hero, my role model, and my best friend. I am so lucky to have you as my mom. Happy Mother’s Day!
Thank you for always believing in me, even when I didn’t believe in myself. You are the strongest, most supportive mom anyone could ask for. I love you! Happy Mother’s Day!
You are the heart of our family, and we love you more than anything in the world. Happy Mother’s Day!
You are the most beautiful, kind, and caring person I know. I am so proud to be your child. Happy Mother’s Day!
Thank you for always being my biggest fan. You always know how to make me feel special. I love you, Mom! Happy Mother’s Day!
You are my everything. I don’t know what I would do without you. Thank you for being the best mom in the world. Happy Mother’s Day!
You are the glue that holds our family together. We are so grateful for everything you do for us. Happy Mother’s Day!
You are my sunshine on a cloudy day. You always know how to make me smile. I love you more than words can say. Happy Mother’s Day!
You are my rock. I know I can always count on you, no matter what. Thank you for always being there for me. Happy Mother’s Day!
You are my best friend. I can talk to you about anything. Thank you for always being there to listen. Happy Mother’s Day!
You are my teacher. You have taught me so much about life. I am so grateful for everything you have taught me. Happy Mother’s Day!
You are my inspiration. You make me want to be a better person. I am so lucky to have you as my mom. Happy Mother’s Day!
You are my queen. You deserve to be spoiled on Mother’s Day and every day. I love you!
You are my everything. I love you more than words can say. Happy Mother’s Day, Mom!
You are the best mom in the whole world. I love you more than anything! Happy Mother’s Day!
You are my hero. You are the strongest, most amazing woman I know. I am so proud to be your daughter. Happy Mother’s Day!
You are my rock. You are always there for me, no matter what. Thank you for being my everything. Happy Mother’s Day!
You are my best friend. We can talk about anything. Thank you for always being there for me. Happy Mother’s Day!
You are my everything. I love you more than words can say. Happy Mother’s Day, Mom!
To the queen of my heart, happy Mother’s Day! Your love and strength inspire me every day.
Wishing a day as lovely as your spirit to the most wonderful mother. Happy Mother’s Day!
May your day be filled with the same boundless love and joy you’ve always given us. Happy Mother’s Day!
Celebrating the amazing woman who raised me with endless love. Happy Mother’s Day, Mom!
On this special day, I want you to know your love has shaped me into who I am. Happy Mother’s Day!
A mother’s love is a masterpiece, and you, Mom, are the artist. Happy Mother’s Day with all my gratitude.
Your compassion, wisdom, and strength light up our lives. Happy Mother’s Day to the most radiant soul!
Sending you oceans of love and gratitude on this Mother’s Day. You are cherished beyond words.
To the nurturer, the protector, and the heart of our family, Happy Mother’s Day!
Your love is the foundation of our family. May your day be as wonderful as the love you give.
Today, we celebrate the superhero in our lives – the one who’s always there, no matter what. Happy Mother’s Day!
Your love has been a guiding light in my life’s journey. Wishing you a Mother’s Day as beautiful as your heart.
On this day, we honor the one who taught us about love, kindness, and resilience. Happy Mother’s Day!
May your day be filled with laughter, love, and all the happiness you’ve brought into our lives. Happy Mother’s Day!
Your hugs, your words, your presence – they’ve all been a source of comfort. Happy Mother’s Day, with all my love.
Wishing a day of relaxation and pampering to the one who deserves it most. Happy Mother’s Day!
To the world’s greatest mom, your love knows no bounds. Happy Mother’s Day from the depths of my heart.
In your embrace, I’ve found warmth and in your love, I’ve found strength. Happy Mother’s Day!
Your love has been the sun on the stormiest days. May your Mother’s Day be as radiant as you are.
For the sacrifices you’ve made, the love you’ve given, and the wisdom you’ve shared – Happy Mother’s Day, with heartfelt thanks.
Happy Mother’s Day Wishes
With Mother’s Day fast approaching we want to ‘Thank’ the Wonderful Women in our lives and to tell our ‘Mothers’ how much we Love and appreciate them.
Unlike previous years where everywhere we looked there were reminders of how we should treat our Mothers on this special day.
Just as in years gone by, we here at PAIRFUM started to ask ourselves and others, “What do Mother’s really want for Mother’s Day”, we mean really, really want! Is it more than just Happy Mother’s Day Wishes?
The answer was simply and universal, no matter who we asked or where they lived, … they want to ‘Meet, Hug & Kiss’ their Children.
Such simple things that we have all taken for granted, prior to the pandemic and the necessary lockdowns.
In previous years we had also posed the question “What do Mothers want for Mothers Day”? and a plethora of wonderful suggestions ranging from ‘a two week all expenses paid Holiday in Bali’, ‘a Weekend at an exclusive Spa’, to ‘a week Skiing at a top resort of their choice’, sounded idyllic, and to be honest they still do, … perhaps even more so in a time of restricted travel.
However then as now. when we started to come back down to earth and realised that most children, be they 2, 22 or 82, do not have that sort of money in their Piggy Bank.
We also came to the realisation that we never ask our Mother’s what they want. Now, … as all of us know, our Mothers are very good at telling us what they want, but it is normally for our benefit not theirs.
I am sure there are the few exceptions to the rule, but generally our Mums do not tell us what they would like as a gift on Mother’s Day.
Meet, Hug & Kiss
This year was, however, for so many Mothers worldwide, the exception:
They knew exactly what they wanted, they wanted to be able to Meet, Hug and Kiss their Children In young families or where a child still lives at home, this is not a problem, … but in so many families where the young have flown the nest, this is impossible.
To be able to meet-up or visit was the number one wish. A Happy Mother’s Day Wishes & Card are not substitute.
So on one hand, we have Mums who cannot meet with their Children, and on the other hand, with Schools closed, we have Mums that have had even less time for themselves, …
As in previous years the answers we realised do depended on the age range of the children:
Mothers of young children would dearly love ‘Time for Themselves’,
Mothers of teenagers would like a little more help at home in combination with the phrase “whatever” to have the Cambridge Dictionary meaning [‘Whatever- pronoun, determiner meaning ANYTHING or EVERYTHING], as in “Anything I can do to help you Mum”, or “I really appreciate everything you do for me Mum”.
Another recurring wish was for a long lazy ‘Morning in Bed’, a lie-in followed by a long luxurious soak in the bath and the pleasure to take as much time as you like to choose what to wear and to do your make-up, or not, as the case may be.
‘Gift Giving’ was another interesting topic of discussion which was also related to the age of the children:
Mums of younger children would love to receive something made for them,
Mums of teenage children would really appreciate something done for them: Breakfast in Bed (after a long lie in and which would include leaving the kitchen in perfect condition afterwards, even if it was not that way beforehand), …
Survey of Mums for Mother’s Day
A poll by Mumsnet revealed that 85% of mums would actually like more than an hour of ‘me-time’ on the day. The same reply we got from Mothers of young and not so young Children.
Sadly, when they inquired how Mother’s Day was last year for their Mothers, their survey found that most mums didn’t get their wish, as three quarters didn’t even get a full hour of time to themselves.
Just like the answers we received in our much smaller poll, ‘lie-ins’ were also top of the Mother’s Day wish-list with 92% hoping they would get some extra ‘shut-eye’. However, the response from the Mothers polled said that they were left disappointed about that too, as over half (58%) of mums were up before 8am.
They also discovered that ‘breakfast in bed’ was not a given, as 53% of mums said they had to make it for themselves last year, despite hoping or hinting that their partner or children would do it for them.
If you think that this was bad, it gets much worse, as not all Mums got the day off from their normal domestic chores.
When questioned which household tasks they had carried out on Mother’s Day last year, 62% said they had done some cooking, 58% did the washing, almost half (49%) did cleaning and 11% took the bins out (the ‘bins out’, this should really be the last straw).
As with our questionnaire, when it came to ‘Gift Giving’, something homemade or personal tops the wish-list, with 37% of mums saying they would love something made by their children and almost a fifth (18%) saying they would like something personalised, like a mug or keyring with their kids’ photo or footprint.
Unlike our small survey, where no-one admitted to this fact, Mumsnet revealed that despite it being their day, only two thirds of mums actually admitted to enjoying Mother’s Day. Maybe our Mums just did not have the heart to say so.
We fully agree with the findings of Mumsnet CEO Justine Roberts: “There is quite a lot of pressure on mothers to be selfless, and it can be difficult for them to ask for what they want, especially if it’s for their early-rising children to go away and take their burnt toast with them.”
This is especially true, when you see, how well meaning it was, how long it was in the planning and how excited they were to bring it in and present it to you. So,… maybe in the future, when you look back at all those Mother’s Day Mornings, you will not remember the tiredness you felt, or the tray with half of the Tea or Coffee floating in it, but remember the look of concentration on the face that has just managed to open the door, with or without help, and the inevitable question of “Do you like it”? What Mother could not say truthfully “This is the best half filled, luck warm cup of dishwater I have had since last year!”
Now,… there may be exceptions to the rule, as I mentioned earlier, but as all wonderful Mothers know the truth is sometimes best kept to ourselves or stored away for another time.
Having said that, we do not mean it as a ‘Get out of Jail card’ for Fathers, Partners or Children to not show this wonderful person in your life how much they mean to you.
We do think that from the responses that we got, that on this day at least, you not only do something special for your Mum, but you also don’t expect her to do the usual things she normally does for you every day.
So,… if your Mother wants some free time to herself, then this is the ‘Time’ to start planning how to give her just that little bit extra on top of all the Happy Mother’s Day wishes, cards and cups of tea.
It really is amazing how we value the simple things in life when they are in short supply.
The one recurring theme is, that Mothers all over the world never seem to have enough time, and least of all ‘Free Time to Themselves’.
So go on,… and on this Mother’s Day, ask your Mum: “What do you want, really, really want?” The answer may surprise you.
With this in mind, we would like you to tell us what the answer was that you received in your Mum’s reply and how you went about fulfilling your Mother her wish.
Happy Mother’s Day Poems
For All Those Times!
For all those times when you picked me up. When you sent me off and you wished me Luck. You tied my laces and wiped my nose. Made my lunch and corrected my prose.
Dropped me off at school and on final bell call. You were standing waiting by the school yard wall. For the times I got it wrong, but was sure I was right. When I was very ill and you sat up all night.
For the times we fought and I was leaving home. I knew you would be Sorry, as you would be all alone. You asked “Where I was going”, I said “I did not know”. So you suggested delaying my departure, until I was 10 or so.
When I first went away all on my own, but it was all OK, knowing you were waiting at home. When I had my first crush, and grew taller than you. You were stern, forgiving, loyal and true.
For the times you needed something, but put me first instead. To the day I realised I would never have a better friend. For all those times and many many more.. I want to say “Thank You, I love You, Amore”.
We hope you were able to take inspiration for your cards on Mother’s Day from our 40 x Happy Mother’s Day Wishes or perhaps the 5 x Mother’s Day Poems.
Did the Mum’s survey results inspire you in your choice of mother’s day gift this year?
If you are looking for a gift that cannot disappoint, then we highly recommend our Perfume Experience Box, a Fragrance Library with 12 x Eau de Parfum Intense. Why gift just one perfume when you can present 12 x Perfume instead?
Unless you know the exact perfume your mum loves, it is nearly impossible find the perfect perfume for her on your own. Instead, present an Experience of Discovering 12 x different Niche Perfumes. Perhaps, … she finds one fragrance that she absolutely loves and that you can gift to her at the next occasion.
The ‘Mandarine Orange’ is a sweet, juicy citrus fruit also named ‘Mandarin’ or ‘Mandarine’. Read about why they are the scent of the Chinese New Year.
The role of Mandarine Oranges in the Chinese New Year !
The mandarine orange is a native of China and an important symbol of Chinese traditionanl culture, a symbol of ‘good fortune’, with a significant sacral meaning during the Chinese New Year festivities.
Mandarines are symbols of the New Year and the expected positive changes. The shape and colour of mandarines symbolise the Sun and connects with the yang principle (the positive and generative force of nature). A symbol of good fortune, luck and success, mandarines are exchanged between families, friends and colleagues as offerings of goodwill during this time of festivities.
These richly coloured fruits (orange / red / gold) are placed on the family alter in a large pile during the Chinese New Year celebrations and are synoymous with prosperity and wealth. For the same reason, potted plants, rich with hanging mandarine oranges are a favourite indoor decoration during this festive season.
In Cantonese, mandarine are named “gut”, meaning “the lucky tree.” It is an ancient New Year tradition of the Chinese to place pairs of mandarines and red envelopes with money, beside the pillow of every child, in the box with the New Year treats and above the rice container of the home. It is believed this will bring good fortune to the house and its family.
The Chap Goh Meh Festival, the 15th day of the lunar New Year, marks the end of the Chinese New Year festivities and serves traditionally as a day for matchmaking. Young girls throw mandarine oranges into the rivers in the hope of gaining a husband by honouring the full moon. Likewise, young men line the streets straining to gain a glimpse of these young ladies who were normally not permitted outside in days gone bye.
Other uses of Mandarine Oranges in China
The essential ingredient in many Chinese sauces is the dried peel of the mandarine orange due to its wonderful citrus oils and other aromatic notes that will richly perfume any dish and remove any oily taste.
On the other hand, in traditional Chinese medicine, the dried peel is used to regulate the flow of the energy of life ( or chi ). Natural philosophers in Old China prescribed the peel as a medical remedy to reduce phlegm, treat abdominal problems and to stimulate healthy digestion.
Mandarine Orange in Perfumery
Peel away the rind of a mandarine orange and out bursts a tempting mix of citrus oils with hints of cloves, ginger, jasmine and orange blossom. There are also undertones of star anise and saffron.
In perfumery, mandarine essential oil is greatly valued in the top notes of many light floral accords and colognes, for its invigorating, juicy sweet and fruity note but also its sensual, floral, neroli-like trail. The essential oil also blends harmoniously with other citrus oils and with many spice oils (nutmeg, cinnamon, clove).
Here at PAIRFUM, we are proud to introduce our new ‘pink grapefruit’ fragrance which contains mandarine essential oil. The addition of mandarin orange oil to the grapefruit accord makes this a truely great fragrance. It is indeed the perfect fragrance for the Chinese New Year.
‘Pink Grapefruit’ is available in the following luxury scented candles and reed diffusers:
Reed Diffusers (petite, classic and large size and in the bell, cube and tower shapes)
Reed Diffuser refill oil
Snow Crystal Candles (classic and large)
Soy & Flower Wax Candle
Message Candle
Other fragrances within the PAIRFUM Collection that exhibit notes of mandarin essential oil are the following perfumes :
‘Mandarin Blossom & Sandalwood’
‘White Nectarine’,
‘Pink Powder & Violet’, and
‘SPA’
Happy Chinese New Year
We would like to wish all of our customers, partners, friends and families a Happy Chinese New Year.
A short poem about the meaning of Easter by Edmund Spenser (c. 1552-99):
“Easter”
Most glorious Lord of Lyfe! that, on this day,
Didst make Thy triumph over death and sin;
And, having harrowd hell, didst bring away
Captivity thence captive, us to win:
This joyous day, deare Lord, with joy begin;
And grant that we, for whom thou diddest dye,
Being with Thy deare blood clene washt from sin,
May live for ever in felicity!
And that Thy love we weighing worthily,
May likewise love Thee for the same againe;
And for Thy sake, that all lyke deare didst buy,
With love may one another entertayne!
So let us love, deare Love, lyke as we ought,
—Love is the lesson which the Lord us taught.
A Poem by Edmund Spenser (c. 1552-99)
Comment:
In medieval England and into the Elizabethan era, Easter was a more important religious festival than Christmas.
In his poem, Spenser writes about the love of Jesus Christ and sacrificing himself on the Cross for humanity.
He reflects, we should take our ‘lesson’ from Christ and practise love towards one another.
This religious poem even becomes romantic at the end.
On International Women’s Day, we present Feminist Quotes to celebrate female empowerment and women’s rights together with other people around the world.
Thanks to cultural and societal shifts, this day has become increasingly prominent and is now recognised by millions of people through events, talks and protests.
To get you in the spirit for the annual celebration, we’ve rounded up some of the most powerful Feminist Quotes from icons like Katherine Hepburn, Bette Davis and Sylvia Plath, who have shared wisdom on everything from female sexuality to equal pay.
It’s not just women, either, whose soundbites we’ve gathered.
Inspirational Feminist Quotes
Scroll through the gallery below to see which quote from an icon inspire you:
Katharine Hepburn: “I have not lived as a woman. I have lived as a man. I’ve just done what I damn well wanted to, and I’ve made enough money to support myself, and ain’t afraid of being alone”
Betty Friedan: Betty Friedan was an American feminist writer and activist. A leading figure in the women’s movement in the United States, “No woman gets an orgasm from shining the kitchen floor”
Emmeline Pankhurst: “I want to say to you who think women cannot succeed, we have brought the government of England to this position, that it has to face this alternative: either women are to be killed or women are to have the vote”
Nawal El Saadawi: Nawal El Saadawi is an Egyptian feminist writer, activist, physician, and psychiatrist. “They said, “You are a savage and dangerous woman. I am speaking the truth. And the truth is savage and dangerous”
Rebecca West: Dame Rebecca West, was a British author, journalist, literary critic and travel writer “I myself have never able to find out precisely what a feminist is. I only know that people call me a feminist whenever I express sentiments that differentiate me from a doormat”
Susan B. Anthony: “I declare to you that woman must not depend upon the protection of man, but must be taught to protect herself, and there I take my stand”
Bette Davis: “When a man gives his opinion, he’s a man. When a woman gives her opinion, she’s a bitch”
Gloria Marie Steinem: An American feminist, journalist, and social political activist “A woman without a man is like a fish without a bicycle”
Warren Buffet His view on promoting women in business “We’ve seen what can be accomplished when we use 50% of our human capacity. If you visualize what 100% can do, you’ll join me as an unbridled optimist about America’s future.”
Barak Obama “I’m absolutely confident that for two years, if every nation on earth was run by women, you would see a significant improvement across the board on just about everything… living standards and outcomes.”
Let us know which of these Feminist Quotes inspired you most today.
Famous Fragrance Quotes Series
If you are looking for more inspirational perfume quotes, then we invite you to visit these pages on our website:
On this Valentines Day, give your partner a special kiss and model it on some of the world’s famous kisses.
Here are some of our favourites.
On Screen Kisses That Didn’t happen
What more is there to say about Scarlett and Rhett’s almost-kiss in “Gone with the Wind”. “You need kissing badly” Clark Gable tells Vivien Leigh.
The kiss that was cut from the film because it was too risqué. Deborah Kerr tells Burt Lancaster in this scene: “I never knew it could be like this. Nobody ever kissed me the way you do.”
Historic Kisses
This photo of the End of Word War II being celebrated emphatically by a soldier and a nurse travelled the world.
The Obama’s kissing during his inauguration.
The Socialist “Fraternal Kiss” between the leader of the Soviet Union, Leonid Brezhnev, and the leader of East Germany, Erich Honeker.
First Royal Kisses
In 1981, the newlywed Charles and Diana, started the tradition of the balcony kiss. Sadly it turned sour in the end.
Will and Kate’s kiss captivated the word: Fairy tales do exit, even if the flower girl might not be impressed.
Artistic Kisses
Gustav Klimt famously depicted this loving kiss around 1908 of embracing couple surrounded by regal gold robes, … most sensual.
In 1182 Auguste Rodin depicts this embrace between an Italian noblewoman and her husband’s younger brother. Sadly, both were killed by the husband.
The Steamy Kiss
These photos may not be famous but we all know the ‘steamy kiss’.
Why Should You Create Your Own Scented Drawer Liner ?
Creating your own scented drawer liner is the perfect remedy when you are tired of your clothes smelling the same as the drawers where they came from. Not only will it give your drawers a whole new look, but your clothes will carry the wonderful fragrance of being freshly laundered for longer.
To see more reasons why you should use drawer liners, we refer you to an excellent article written by JAM Organising which details the many benefits.
Make Your Own Scented Drawer Liner – A Step by Step Guide
Below we have outlined the key steps to make your own scented drawer liners.
Step 1: Ensure You Have All Of The Required Materials
Wall Paper / Wrapping Paper / Decorative Copy Paper
One Small Glass Dish
Cotton Balls / Scent Bottle
Scissors
Ruler
Essential Oil (of your choice)
The fragrance you choose is completely up to you.
We do caveat this by recommending the following:
only buy high quality, pure and concentrated essential oils to ensure you have an enjoyable and long-lasting perfume.
equally, please steer away from oils that may stain your clothes. Examples of such oils are vanilla, cinnamon and other spices, all types of citrus oils (lemon, mandarine, …). Before using any oil, we advise testing whether the oil discolours using an old piece of fabric, e.g. cotton. Simply apply a little oil to the fabric and leave this sitting in the sun. Within a relatively short time you should be able to see any discolouration.
for the same reason, we advise not to buy mixtures of essential oils, e.g. a ‘Christmas Scent’, as these might contain ingredients that will stain without explicitly mentioning them, e.g. cinnamon oil.
Step 2: Choose Your Scented Drawer Liner Paper
Choose the paper you would like to use in your dresser. The key criteria must be that the paper is absorbent or porous. This is to ensure that the fragrance you use is being absorb and then released slowly. Coated, lacquered or painted papers are typically not porous enough.
Wallpaper is normally a good starting point, as it tends to be relatively thick and very absorbent. Alternatively, a nice wrapping paper or decorative copy paper can be ideal.
Step 3: Measure The Dimensions of Your Drawers
Measure both the width and length of the inside of the drawer bottom you would like to be lined and then cut your chosen paper according to these dimensions.
Step 4: Mix Your Essential Oils
Create a mixture of essential oil and water. The ratio you should aim for is 50ml of water to every 1 – 2ml of the essential oils.
We know this can be difficult to measure but an easy solution is to count your drops: for every 50 drops of water you add 1 or 2 drops of essential oil. Alternatively, use kitchens scales.
Step 5: Add Your Mixture To A Clean Spray Bottle
Pour the mixture into a clean spray bottle.
Please note: be sure that the spray bottle is clear of debris or you may spray additional and unwanted particles onto your paper.
If you don’t have a spray bottle to hand, add the mixture to a small dish. Then dip and slightly drain with a cotton ball.
Step 6: Apply The Mixture To The Drawer Lining Paper
Spray a mist of the mixture over the paper until it is completely damp but not yet wet, i.e. not liquid or droplets sitting on the surface.
Alternatively, gently brush the cotton ball over the BACK side of the paper. The more of the paper you cover the stronger your scent will be.
Step 7: Leave your Scented Drawer Liner To Dry
Hang your paper to dry on a clothesline or drying rack. If for any reason neither are available, then place a towel on a flat surface and lay the papers on top.
Drying times vary dependent on the amount of solution that you have applied.
Bonus Tips
Traditionally drawer liners are used where you store clothes: drawers, wardrobes or shelves in the bedroom. There is, however, no reason why scented drawer liners shouldn’t be added to drawers, cabinets or cupboards in the kitchen, bathroom, living room or any other suitable room.
During your research you may hear about fabric liners being an alternative to paper. The are certainly suitable true but we do caveat this recommendation by saying that is is important that you use a natural, tightly-woven and absorbent fabric, such as cotton or linen.
Other substrates such as cork and leather are also excellent alternative options, as long as they are uncoated, uncoloured and absorbent. Unpainted, unvarnished or uncoated wood is another very good solution.
We advise against the use of plastics or plastic lined fabrics due to the likely interactions between the essential oils and the synthetic plastic.
Bonus Tips:
If you want to be without the hassle of making your own mixture, might we recommend spraying your drawer lining paper with our Linen Spray. As well as lavender (featured above), we offer a wide-range of fragrances in our linen sprays such as ‘Blush Rose and Amber’ & ‘Magnolias in Bloom’.
The great advantage of using Pairfum London’s Linen Spray to freshen up your drawer lining paper is that you can refresh them at any time and you are not limited to the choice of perfume or paper that the manufacturer of the drawer liner has selected.
Alternatively, you may wish to spray your favourite perfume on a suitable drawer lining paper. Please be careful, however, as some of the ingredients they contain might stain your clothes, e.g. vanilla, citrus, cinnamon and other spices.
Scented Sachets
If you are looking for an even more convenient solution, we recommend our Luxury Natural Scented Sachets. Simply hang one in a drawer, wardrobe, cabinet, cupboard or similar location and it will perfume every day for up to 9 months.
The World shines Green lights of ‘Hope & Positivity’ for St Patricks Day 2021.
Today the 17th of March 2021 is a St. Patrick’s Day like none other we can remember in recent history.
In a time when people around the World are worried, scared and when so many may feel alone, hundreds of iconic buildings around the World today, will light up green as a sign of ‘Hope & Positivity’ to all Irish people and all the Citizens of the World in a time of the Coronavirus.
In fact, we see that 66 countries around the world have 660 buildings, monuments, statues and public art lit up in the colour green to celebrate St Patricks Day 2021.
Here are some of our favourites: Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro, Niagara Falls, the London Eye, the ‘Welcome’ sign in Las Vegas, Madison Square Garden in New York, the Clifton Suspension Bridge in Bristol, Caerphilly Castle in South Wales and the Smurf Statue in Brussels.
New Friends that are taking part this year during St Patricks Day 2021 include the City Hall in Bangkok, Palais du Peuple in Djibouti City, the National Theatre in London and the Palace Bridge in St Petersburg, Burj al Arab, the Chain Bridge in Budapest and many more.
All around the world today, Irish people are coming up with creative and happy ways to celebrate this very important day for them.
However, today is not just about one country, one celebration, one race or nation – it is about One World.
So, … a Global Invitation was issued, today at at 3pm please join in with the people of Ireland in singing a song on St Patricks Day 2021:
Ireland’s Call
(By Phil Coulter)
Come the day and come the hour Come the power and the glory We have come to answer Our Country’s call From the four proud provinces of Ireland
CHORUS Ireland, Ireland Together standing tall Shoulder to shoulder We’ll answer Ireland’s call
From the mighty Glens of Antrim From the rugged hills of Galway From the walls of Limerick And Dublin Bay From the four proud provinces of Ireland
CHORUS Ireland, Ireland Together standing tall Shoulder to shoulder We’ll answer Ireland’s call
Hearts of steel And heads unbowing Vowing never to be broken We will fight, until We can fight no more From the four proud provinces of Ireland
CHORUS Ireland, Ireland Together standing tall Shoulder to shoulder We’ll answer Ireland’s call
So today on St. Patrick’s Day to the People around the World wherever you are: Italy, China, Spain, USA, UK, France, Canada, Netherlands, Germany, Russia, Romania, Australia, New Zealand, Argentina, Mexico, Brazil, Nigeria, Saudi Arabia, India, Thailand, …
We are all together standing tall – shoulder to shoulder – we answer the World’s call…
March 8th is International Womens’s Day which was originally called ‘International Working Women’s Day’.
It was first celebrated on the 28th of February (1909) in New York in remembrance of the 1908 strike held by the International Ladies’ Garment Workers’ Union when 15,000 workers, marched through New York city’s lower east side to demand social and political rights.
The first International Women’s Day was held five years later in 1914, on the 8th of March which was chosen because it was a Sunday, and the majority of women would have the day off work thus allowing them to participate in the events that were organised. It has been celebrated on that date ever since.
The day was declared a national holiday in the Soviet Union in 1917, and it was adopted by the UN in 1977.
Since 1996, the UN has assigned a theme to every IWD. This year’s theme is “Be bold for change”. According to the UN, it is “a day when women are recognize for their achievements without regard to divisions, whether national, ethnic, linguistic, cultural, economic or political. It is an occasion for looking back on past struggles and accomplishments, and more importantly, for looking ahead to the untapped potential and opportunities that await future generations of women.”
13 Remarkable Women
Today’s ‘Google Doodle’ March 8th 2017 features Thirteen “female pioneers” – not all of whom are household names, most of them we may never have heard of and yet all of them achieved success in their chosen fields against what seems like insurmountable odds.
Ida Wells an African-American journalist and activist born in Mississippi in 1862, she wrote prolifically on the fight for women’s suffrage as well as the struggle for civil rights.
Lotifa El Nadi Egypt’s first female pilot born in 1907 in Cairo Her achievements made headlines around the world when she flew over the pyramids and competed in international flying races.
Frida Kahlo a Mexican painter and activist born in Mexico City in 1907, her work was loved by Women for its honest depiction of the female experience.
Lina Bo Bardi a Brazilian architect, born in Italy in 1914, promoted the social and cultural potential of architecture and design. Her furniture and jewellery designs are also celebrated.
Olga Skorokhodova was a scientist born into a poor Ukranian family in 1911, she lost her sight and hearing at the age of five. Overcoming these difficulties in the most amazing way, she became a researcher in the field of communication and produced a number of scientific works concerning the development of education for deaf-blind children.
Miriam Makeba a South African singer and civil rights activist was born in Johannesburg in 1932, was discovered as a singer of jazz and African melodies. She became hugely successful in the USA wining a Grammy for her work , she then became involved in the civil rights struggle in the US, as well as against apartheid in her native South Africa, writing political songs. Following her death President Nelson Mandela said that “her music inspired a powerful sense of hope in all of us.”
Sally Ride an American astronaut and physicist, born in Los Angeles in 1951 joined NASA in 1978, she became the first American woman and the third woman ever to go into space in 1983 at the age of 32. She later worked as an academic at the University of California, San Diego.
Halet Cambel a Turkish archaeologist born in 1916, became the first Muslim women to compete in the Olympics in the 1936 Berlin games as a fencer. She bravely declined an invitation to meet Adolf Hitler on political grounds, and after the conclusion of the Second World War, she trained as an architect and later worked as an academic in Turkey and Germany.
Ada Lovelace also known as ‘Countess of Lovelace’was an English mathematician and writer born in 1815, she became the world’s first computer programmer. The daughter of the poet Lord George Byron, she is chiefly known for her work on Charles Babbage’s proposed mechanical general-purpose computer known as the Analytical Engine, and was the first to recognise the machine had applications beyond pure calculation, creating the first algorithm intended to be carried out by such a machine.
Rukmini Devi an Indian dancer and choreographer credited with reviving Indian classical dance, was born in 1904 and presented her form of dance on stage in the 1920s which was considered in very bad taste. She features in India Today’s list of the “100 people who shaped India”. She also worked to re-establish traditional Indian arts and crafts and was passionate about animal rights.
Cecilia Grierson an Argentine physician born in Buenes Aires in 1859, became the first woman in Argentina to receive a medical degree having previously worked as a teacher. At this time Women were barred from entering medical school and so she first volunteered as an unpaid lab assistant before being allowed to train as a doctor. She was recognised for her work during a cholera epidemic and went on to found the first nursing school in Argentina. The treatment she received during her training at medical school helped to shape her as an advocate for women’s rights in Argentina.
Lee Tai-young Korea’s first female lawyer and judge born in 1914 in what is now known as North Korea, founded the country’s first legal aid centre and fought throughout her career for women’s rights . Her often quoted refrain was, “No society can or will prosper without the cooperation of women.” She was married, worked as a teacher, and had four children before she was able to begin her legal career after the Second World War. Becoming the first woman to enter the National University of Seoul . She fought for civil rights in the country, and in 1977 was arrested and given a three-year suspended sentence and a ten year disbarment.
Suzanne Lenglen the French tennis champion born in 1899, popularised the sport winning 31 championships and dominating the women’s game for over a decade. She was one of the first international women sports stars, and was the first female tennis celebrity. Aged 15 she became the youngest ever winner of a major championship and during her entire career lost only seven matches. She defended her decision to turn professional by stating that she had a right to make a decent living in the days when the grand slam tournaments paid a relative pittance to the winners.
Men As Feminists
An article in the Lifestyle section of the Independent newspaper shows a clip made by a group of young men from an Australian school identifying as feminists. The video clip shows the answers these young Men were given when they asked the Women in their lives, Mothers, Aunts, Sisters, Teachers, Friends what Feminism meant to them. It takes just a few seconds to watch but leaves us begging the question? If we all just pause for a moment and asked ourselves “where would we be without Women”, I think there really is only one answer “nowhere” – put simply we would not exist. Read the article here.
Iconic Women in Perfumery
One of the reasons why the perfume industry is so passionate about International Women’s Day is that it is an industry with a very strong female influence:
iconic female industry leaders, such as Coco Chanel, Estee Lauder, Jo Malone and many others,
the increasing prominence of female perfumers, as can be seen in this article by Fragrantica,
more women buy perfume than men, and
companies led by women.
If you would enjoy sending a gift on International Women’s Day from a female-led enterprise, then head over to our online perfumery boutique. Did you already know that Pairfum London is a female-led enterprise?
