- Zsolt Zolyomi Perfumer:
Zsolt Zolyomi is Hungary's sole perfumer, a distinction that sets him apart in the world of fragrance. His journey into perfumery led him to the prestigious International Department of the Fragrance Academy at ISIPCA in Versailles, where he earned a rare perfumer certificate under the tutelage of Jean - Paul Guerlain.
Zsolt's approach to perfumery is deeply rooted in a blend of nostalgia and a desire to capture the essence of emotions. He aims to revive Hungary's historical connection to modern western perfumery, which dates back to the 14th century with the creation of the iconic eau de la reine de Hongrie, a rosemary - based perfume and lotion. This historical perspective influences his work, as he tries to bring a sense of Hungarian heritage into his creations.
In his current work, Zsolt is involved in a diverse range of projects. He creates commercial perfumes for brand owners, such as the Rajul and Nubia range commissioned by Emeshel, a US "lifestyle brand" with Hungarian roots. These perfumes are designed to complement the brand's existing line of high - end jewellery, crystal, and sculptures. Additionally, he offers a unique "haute couture" perfume service for private clients, tailoring scents to their individual preferences. This personalized approach extends to creating fragrances for special occasions like marriages and celebrations, as well as exclusive corporate perfumes.
Zsolt also plays an important role in promoting the art of perfumery in Hungary. He is the owner of Le Parfum Croisette in Budapest, which serves not only as a sales outlet but also as a platform to raise public awareness about niche fragrances. Given the relatively underdeveloped state of the luxury perfumery market in Central and Eastern Europe, especially during the communist era when the industry was suppressed as an elitist indulgence, Zsolt sees himself as an ambassador for perfume in this region. He has plans to launch a perfumery school for students from Central and Eastern European countries and to open the first Hungarian perfume museum, with the goal of educating and inspiring the next generation of fragrance enthusiasts.
In addition to his practical work, Zsolt is also an author. His book, "Le Parfum 2000" (initially in Hungarian), offers a comprehensive overview of the world of perfume, covering its history, different scent families, and the art of fragrance creation. It is reminiscent of works like Roja Dove's "The Essence of Perfume", with its rich illustrations of scent bottles and historical adverts. Overall, Zsolt Zolyomi is not only a creative perfumer but also a dedicated educator and advocate for the world of high - end fragrance in Hungary and beyond.
