WHAT TO EXPECT

Open Session: First Timers is our session for first time visitors to the IAO’s Open Sessions. You must take this class or Introduction to Perfume Blending before signing up for Open Sessions: Returning Students Only.

ABOUT OPEN SESSIONS: FIRST TIMERS

Blending aromatic molecules together into a composed perfume is not only fun, but creative, challenging and - sometimes - kinda relaxing. We can't promise you that you'll make the next Chanel No. 5, but we can guarantee that you'll come away with a healthy respect for the art, science, materials, and skill it takes to make perfume. Open Sessions are the IAO’s longest running program. This onboarding experience is designed precisely for beginners who learn best by diving in.

These guided sessions are a great chance to get your first experiences with scent blending!

After getting a one-hour introduction to the session's curated materials, you will be able to independently tinker with materials from the chosen palette in a casual setting. We have everything you need: aromatic materials (natural, synthetic, accords), vials and droppers, scent strips and travel sprays… All you need to bring is an open mind. Down the rabbit hole you go!

WHAT TO EXPECT

Upon arrival, there is a one hour smelling session with the evening's attendees. You will be prompted to talk about and - eventually - select five materials from the palette chosen for you, a first time visitor to the IAO.

When you’ve decided which five scents you’d like to work with, we’ll help you decant your vials and set you up at a work station. You can take the vials home, of course.

At the end of the session, we help you make a small spray vial of your favorite formula trial from the session.

TAKE-AWAYS

+ Smell a selection of aromatic materials guided by the IAO team, your own nose, and the group discussion

+ Work with a set of aromatics of your choosing from a palette chosen for first time visitors to the IAO

+ Make your first perfume trials

+ Bring home a sample of your favorite trial in a small spray vial

+ Make new #friendswithpipettes

Safety Note: Some aromatic materials can have side effects when applied to skin. The information and teaching materials presented in our classes are for educational purposes only. These are not intended for commercial use and do not necessarily reflect commercial best practices or industry safety standards. For more information about commercial best practices and safety, consult the relevant authorities in your country of residence.

COSTS

To attend open sessions for first timers, you will pay a lab fee, which includes the use of our labware, containers, pipettes, scent strips, as well as our session moderators' instructions.

You will also have five (5) 5/8 dram vials to work with and take home, as well as your spray vial of your chosen blend.

Please note that you must reserve your space in advance. If you just show up without reserving a spot, there is no guarantee we will be able to accommodate you. This class is for beginners/first time visitors to the Open Sessions.

Our open sessions are 18 and up (or 14+, with adult supervision).

Open Sessions: First Timers Only (October)