Meet Audrey Herrington

We had the good fortune of connecting with Audrey Herrington and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Audrey, what habits do you feel play an important role in your life?
At first, saying yes to lots of opportunities, and meeting the people that love what I do and resonate with the products and energy that i’m creating in the world. It’s a habit of staying open and trusting of success. Then overtime, it was about knowing when to say no, and investing my time and energy into the least resistant path. Also notable in what has helped me succeed this far is the habit of ritual. Carving out time to create a beautiful space for musing on where I see my future, and getting into the feeling of it happening is such a powerful gift we all have. This can be a weekly, monthly, or seasonal habit, but it’s all about what is most meaningful for you personally. Sending a little prayer out, and then letting it go is not as easy as it sounds, but worth practicing.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Intuitive Essence is a creative perfumery, that is experiential in nature. We host classes and Custom Scent Sessions, while also offering intentionally made aromatics to match your astrological chart, and scents to connect you to the mystical side of life. We are different from other perfume brands because we blend the worlds of aromatherapy and fragrance-making to create high quality aromatics that have lasting power. I’m most proud of the Zodiac Fragrance Collection because they are made based on Astroherbalism, which is how plants and planets are linked, so using them in these zodiac blends connects us to the energy of that sign and archetype. I think all of this sets us apart as a unique business.

I got my beginnings apprenticing under a master perfumer in Chicago, IL. I would spend the day at our boutique blending custom perfumes for people, as well as working with local businesses making aromas to match their brand. This was such a joyful time in my life because I was always so concerned with how my talents and skills could help people. When I found this shop and met the owner he taught me everything I wanted to know about aromatherapy, perfumery, and formulating skincare products. I was pleasantly surprised by how people felt so seen and loved through this process. I knew at that moment, I had found a unique way to share creativity and bring joy into the world.

4 years into my work and apprenticeship as a perfumer, I discovered a book on Astroherbalism. It was then, I decided to craft The Zodiac Fragrance Collection and when my work really began as a creative entrepreneur. Despite the challenge of launching a new business and gaining credibility in the field, I persisted. It’s so easy to get discouraged by the whole wide world of professionals and creatives who have been at it for 20+ years or more and comparing my skill to theirs. But I think it’s unfair to assume a budding artists work will amount to that of a professional in the beginning years; we all have to start somewhere. I strive to find a balance of humility and audacity in my pursuit of the creative entrepreneurial life.

To the artists and dreams of the world, just begin and practice and share your ideas and work against all odds. Take advice with a grain of salt, and dedicate your creative process to something bigger than you and let it reveal your truest intentions along the way. There is enough room for all of us and our art in this world, because no one can do it like you do.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I am a treasure hunting animal! I will always seek to find the best antique malls, and flea markets anyway I roam. That being said, I would plan for a few hours perusing the Kobey’s swap meet, Sea Hive Station, and Consignment Classics to score some relics and funny chachkies alike. To anyone reading who has other suggestions, please inquire within 🙂

Dancing is a passion of mine, and I love the Contact Improv jam on Mondays at the Light Box Theatre!

Music enthusiasts check out @winylclub_ for local music events!

Food and good coffee are important! For my vegetarian friends, we would eat at Jyoti Bihanga, and then get a cacao next door at Maya Moon! Brunch is busy but delicious at Morning Glory, and for dinner we must have oxtail ramen at RAKI RAKI.

The beach is my happy place, so on a hot day let’s go to sunset cliffs or Wind and Sea beach! For a bit of a hike too, I love Blacks Beach and Torrey Pines.

Ocean Beach market is always a good decision on Wednesday’s for dinner, local produce and gifts!

I guess we would need to round out the week with a stroll in Balboa park, and a MUST STOP is the new bakery in Bankers Hill, MICHI MICHI!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I give a deep bow of recognition to my fiancé Matthew Fabiano. He is a photographer, and humble artist. He makes sure I am fed and cared for on my best and worst days.

Another notable shout out is The San Diego Made crew! The ladies that run their artist factory are kind, wise and so caring. I have my perfumery in their space and they are endlessly creative and present for all the ins and outs of the artistic journey.

Website: http://intuitiveessenceshop.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/intuitiveessence_/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IntuitiveEssences/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@IntuitiveEssenceshop

Image Credits
Matthew Fabiano