Perfumery is a profession that is often passed down from generation to generation. Thus, many current designers have learned the basics of their profession alongside their parents, themselves perfumers. Nevertheless, even if this universe remains very compartmentalized, there is still a solution to integrate this closed circle for those who have not had this chance: the prestigious ISIPCA school of Versailles, recognized for providing the best teaching in the world in terms of perfumery. However, it is precisely there that Maïa Lernout acquired her know-how, then associated with many twists and turns during her career and notable stints in several prestigious companies.
Maïa Lernout’s training
Maïa Lernout was trained for two years at ISIPCA. However, once graduated, the young woman quickly realized that there was still a long way to go to become a perfumer worthy of the name. Indeed, all those who come from ISIPCA do not necessarily intend to make perfumes for the biggest luxury houses. “You don’t necessarily become a student perfumer,” she explains. We can also specialize in evaluation, for example, another job, which consists in helping the creator to put his idea to bed, or to make it stick to the customer’s request. “. After graduating from school, Maïa Lernout first became a preparer in a famous Grasse company: Robertet. For her, this position was absolutely essential to continue learning. Next, Maïa Lernout decided to join Symrise, a German company producing flavors and fragrances, to complete her training. After a few years spent at KAO, she was recruited as a perfumer at Biolandes, a producer of essential oils and natural aromatic extracts.
Maïa Lernout, perfumer with her head rather than her nose
Maïa Lernout has a method of creation all her own and considers working with her head rather than with her nose. Its process of creation is based on a work of intellectualization. In reality, Maïa Lernout composes her essences from her computer, and writes her recipes before mixing the ingredients and being able to really feel the result of her equation. ” It’s a lot of work. You need a good memory and a great capacity for concentration, a lot of discipline, ”admits Maïa.
Maïa Lernout, the consecration at Takasago
After working as a perfumer at Biolandes for four years, Maïa Lernout finally joined the Takasago company in 2010, to once again be a perfumer and creator. It was there that she came into contact with the talented Francis Kurkdjian, of worldwide fame. Within the Japanese company, and in conjunction with her mentor, Maïa Lernout continues to multiply ambitious projects for the biggest luxury brands. Davidoff, Elie Saab, Kenzo, Nina Ricci, Lolita Lempicka,… All are snapping up his creations. A tremendous consecration!
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