Learn to Make Perfume, One Graceful Step at a Time
Many people want to learn to make perfume but don't know where to begin. So we offer a simple path. Each step builds on the one before it.
First comes the Perfume Making 101 Workshop. Next, The Fragrance Workshop goes deeper. Finally, a one-to-one fragrance consultation puts you beside a perfumer.
- Step one quoted for your group
- Step two quoted per event
- Step three from $650
- Formulas kept at step three
Why a path helps you learn to make perfume
Perfume has a structure, much like music. So perfume making skills grow like a musician's do. Top notes open the piece, and they fade first. Middle notes carry the melody. Finally, base notes are the deep tones that linger.
Of course, learning it all in one night is a lot. Instead, our path lets each idea settle. Then the next step adds new skills on solid ground.
Our founder, Cheryl Gleason, studied perfumery with educator Karen Gilbert and at the Institute for Art and Olfaction. That training also shapes how we teach. As a result, each step feels both rigorous and warm.
Keep the labels from each bottle you make, even the first. Together, they show how your taste grows.
The three steps to learn to make perfume
Here is the path, plus the skills each step adds. Start wherever feels right.
Step one: the 101
Learn notes, families, and balance, then bottle one perfume. It is quoted for your group of 3 or more.
Skills from step one
Here, you learn to evaluate materials, choose notes that complement each other, and adjust strength.
Step two: The Fragrance Workshop
Here you explore raw materials and write a scent story. Then you create two perfumes.
Skills from step two
Your first perfume is carefully structured. Your second, made at our perfume bar, is more playful.
Step three: one-to-one
Work with a perfumer at our Mokena studio or your home, from $650. She guides you while you blend.
Skills from step three
Now you refine a personal perfume in depth. Plus, your formula is recorded and kept for later.
Book the 101 for your group
First, invite at least two friends, and we will quote your class. Then we bring the class to your home or venue in Chicagoland.
Ways to keep learning between steps
Your nose grows sharper with practice, so keep going. These habits help between classes.
A scent story is a short description of what you want a perfume to express. It guides every choice.
Moments to start learning
Many learners begin with a celebration. Then curiosity carries them further, in Chicagoland, Milwaukee, or Indianapolis.
A new year
January often feels right for a fresh hobby. Start with the 101.
A milestone birthday
Mark it with the Elevated tier, which includes a fully staffed perfume bar.
A friends' tradition
Book a class each season, and watch everyone's taste grow.
A wedding
A bride may want a perfume for the day. In that case, a one-to-one session is ideal.
A team retreat
The Branded Fragrance Workshop travels nationwide for corporate groups.
Just for you
Sometimes the best reason is simply wanting to learn.
Where each step happens
Every step comes to you, or else you can come to us. Here is how it usually works.
Homes
The 101 and the Signature tier feel natural around a dining table.
Event spaces
The Elevated and Branded tiers suit larger rooms and mid-size groups.
Your home, privately
A one-to-one session can happen in your own home, too.
Mokena studio
Opening in January 2027, it hosts private sessions and has a party room for up to 40.
How to learn to make perfume with us
- Start with the basics.First, book the 101 and finish your first perfume.
- Notice your taste.Next, wear your bottle and see what you love most.
- Go deeper.Then join The Fragrance Workshop to write a scent story and make two perfumes.
- Work one-to-one.After that, book a private session with a perfumer.
- Keep your formula.Finally, your recorded formula lets you return to it later.
Formulas are recorded only at one-to-one sessions. So step three is where your recipe gets saved.
Learn to make perfume: settings along the way
These photos show the tables and bars learners work at, too. Each step looks a little different.
Reserve your first step
Book online or call 815.418.6740. Then we will help you pick the right starting point.
Glitters & Grace was founded by Cheryl Gleason, a trained perfumer, a cosmetic and skincare formulator, and the creative force behind every bar we bring to your event.
Where you can learn to make perfume
Chicagoland is our home base for all three steps. The Fragrance Workshop also reaches Milwaukee and Indianapolis. Plus, our Mokena studio opens in January 2027 for private sessions.
Chicago and the North Shore
Condos, homes, and party rooms from the city to Lake Forest.
Western and Northwest Suburbs
Homes, clubhouses, and venues across DuPage and the northwest suburbs.
Southwest Suburbs and Will County
Our home base, minutes from the Mokena studio.
Milwaukee Area
Local Glitters & Grace hosts and teams to bring you sparkle.
Indianapolis Area
Local Glitters & Grace hosts and teams to bring you sparkle.
Mokena Studio
19060 Everett Blvd, Suite 107, Mokena, IL 60448. Opening in January 2027 with a private party room for up to 40 guests. Visit the studio page or call 815.418.6740.
Questions about learning perfume
Where should I start?
Start with the 101 Workshop. It covers notes, families, and balance, and you finish a perfume.
Do I have to take the steps in order?
No. However, each step builds on the last, so the order helps.
What is a scent story?
It is a short description of what you want a perfume to express. You write one at The Fragrance Workshop.
Is this a multi-week course?
No. Instead, each step is its own class or session. You move ahead whenever you like.
Do you offer online classes?
No. Every class happens in person, because smelling the materials is the heart of it.
Can I keep my formula?
Yes, at a one-to-one session. There, your formula is recorded and kept.
Do you come to the North Shore?
Yes. We often teach in Evanston, Wilmette, Winnetka, and across Chicagoland.
Can I learn in Milwaukee?
Yes. The Fragrance Workshop serves Milwaukee and suburbs like Mequon and Brookfield.
Can I learn in Indianapolis?
Yes. The Fragrance Workshop also serves Indianapolis, Carmel, and Fishers.
Can I work one-to-one at your Mokena studio?
Yes, once it opens in January 2027 at 19060 Everett Blvd, Suite 107. Home sessions are also available.
Ready to learn to make perfume?
Reserve online or call 815.418.6740. Your first step is closer than you think.
perfume@glittersandgrace.com · 815.418.6740
With Grace,
Cheryl Gleason · Owner, Perfumer & Creative Director