Perfumer Francis Kurkdjian Entertains in the City of Light

Perfume as a work of art is a transmitted expression of intimacy. Poignant words from Francis Kurkdjian, the world’s most famous perfumer, who created his first scent for Jean Paul Gaultier at the young age of 25.  His client list includes the top beauty and fashion brands such as Lancome, Yves Saint Laurent, Lanvin and Giorgio Armani  as well as private patrons lusting for their own one-of-a-kind signature fragrance.

Considered the prince of perfume, Kurkdjian has even recreated the scent of a queen.  The Chateau de Versailles commissioned the master perfumer to develop a limited edition perfume based on the authentic royal documents of Marie Antoinette.

Last year Kurkdjian launched his eponymous fragrance house in Paris with a collection of colognes, perfumes, interior scents, candles, incense paper and even scented bubbles.  Here, the jet-setting artist and entrepreneur shares his favorite places to entertain in the City of Light and tell us why he never gives perfume as a gift.

Like an event, a fragrance is ephemeral yet leaves behind a lingering memory.  How do you create a scent that will be remembered?
If I knew the secret for creating a scent that will be remembered, I would sell it and become very rich! (Laughs) I guess it’s the unspoken part of Creation. It’s an irrational and unpredictable element. I would expect it is the same for a writer who wants to  write a best seller or a singer, composer or painter. You might think there are ready made recipes for fragrance but, the only thing I know for sure, is that you have to work and work again to create something extraordinary.

You’ve traveled the world seeking inspiration but still consider Paris to be your home and heart.  What are your favorite places in the City of Light to dine, entertain and enjoy?
For drinks with friends, I go to Rosa Bonheur, an outdoor cafe, in the Buttes Chaumont Garden. At Café Marly, which is in central Paris, I can hang out with friends all day long from late breakfast to late dinner. My choice of dining depends on my mood and the time of the day. For French fusion food I go my friend’s restaurant named Balthazar & Co Restaurant in the 11th near Bastille. The best Argentinean cuisine is at Anahi in the 3rd district. Also, I love the view from the rooftop terrace of Georges at Beaubourg Museum and the hotel Le Meurice next to my boutique in Paris.

How would you describe your entertaining style?
I organize small diner parties for around 8 people and I cook. It’s very simple but cooking is just a great experience for me. I find it relaxing even though I am anxious because I always want to please my friends. Once every 3 months I throw a big party and the night goes on and on. The craziest one was when I was knighted and named Chevalier des Arts et Lettres last year.

What is your signature drink?
Champagne of course! And I buy it directly from the producer, a family-owned vineyard that delivers great champagne. If it’s alcohol free, then it’s a mix of sparkling water and still water, half and half in the same glass!!!

What is your signature gift?
I do not have a signature gift as I always try to find the perfect gift for each of my friends! The only thing you can be sure I do not give is perfume because I am always afraid people might think I got it for free!! (Laughs)

Tell us about an incredible event that you have attended recently
The opening night on the roof top terrace of the French Pavilion at the World Fair/Shanghai Expo last May. It was amazing to see all the pavilions around us and the city, the lights and the fire works.

You are hosting a fantasy dinner party. Who are your guests and what do you serve them?
I would love to host a dinner party with my family, like a family reunion with my great grand parents I have never met as well my dear grandparents who passed away more than 10 years ago! It would be lot of fun as they were all talented characters – a pianist, violinist, musician, fur dealer, tailor and even an oil trader. The food would definitely be some type of Middle Eastern fusion cuisine made from family recipes that my mother has learned over the years.

PHOTO CREDIT:  Courtesy of Francis Kurkdjian