Behind the Scent: Wild Horses
Immersing you in the untamed landscapes that inspired its creation, "Wild Horses" is Aja Botanicals' debut eau de parfum, capturing the essence of freedom and strength. Founder Tilly Wood shares her journey in crafting this evocative fragrance, rooted in her early love for horses and the enchanting world of scent.
Growing up in the quintessential British countryside, Tilly's connection to nature was formed at an early age. "I could ride almost before I could walk," she recalls, "and the smell of the stables and tack room are some of my earliest, most cherished memories. Horses gave me great companionship with their unspoken understanding. I love their quiet strength and the contrasting exhilaration of galloping through the wilds."
These experiences laid the foundation for "Wild Horses," a fragrance that embodies the majestic and sensitive power of these noble creatures. The creation of "Wild Horses" was a collaborative effort with acclaimed perfumer Marina Barcenilla. "During a perfumery course with Marina, we studied leather fragrances and I was particularly drawn to lighter leather fragrances, I wanted to create a scent that reminded me of the sensation and scent of the softest of suedes," Tilly explains. "We set out to create a scent that was both sensual and grounding."
Opening with light floral notes of Orris and honeyed Osmanthus, "Wild Horses" offers a veil-like transparency that caresses the skin. At its heart, a masterful blend of Patchouli, Birch Tar, and Jasmine Sambac exudes passion and depth. Enriched with leather notes of Tobacco and the warm, grounding presence of Sandalwood, the fragrance imparts an inner strength and a profound sense of knowing.
The fragrance's name is a nod to one of Tilly's favorite songs, "Wild Horses" by the Rolling Stones, a piece famously associated with Marianne Faithfull. Her rebellious soul and the timeless style of 70s rock chics have been a significant inspiration for Tilly in creating the brand. "I love those independent strong women like Marianne Faithfull, my former mother-in-law Krissy Wood, and Patti Boyd," Tilly reflects. "There’s really been no one like them. They were the original icons, the trailblazers for the independent soul, the original free spirits."
"Music and the energetic waves of sound stimulate the release of feel-good endorphins, much like fragrance," Tilly notes, "and the song's vibe perfectly complements the scent we've created. When you’re wearing the right perfume, it’s like an invisible layer that makes you feel extra special; it gives you the same boost you feel wearing a brilliant outfit."
Adding a touch of luxury to this limited edition release, each bottle of "Wild Horses" comes with a bespoke leather case crafted by a third-generation leather maker in Richmond. "Collaborating with local artisans is something I'm passionate about," Tilly shares. "Their craftsmanship ensures that each piece is as unique and enduring as the fragrance it holds."
"Wild Horses" is more than just a fragrance; it's a journey through scent, memory, and the wild power of the horse. Made in the UK, this natural fragrance is a limited release of 7.7ml, suitable for both men and women.
