By Zee:
When the invitation landed in my inbox, I squealed. Yes, squealed. Out loud. Alone. In heels. There it was – the golden ticket: “Galeries de Parfums cordially invites you to the official launch of the Amouroud Garden Collection, in partnership with Moët & Chandon.”
I didn’t even finish reading it before I started planning the look. This wasn’t just any launch. This was a scented affair with serious pedigree. Galeries de Parfums isn’t just a luxury fragrance boutique – it’s the only store in all of Africa licensed to sell Amouroud and other fine fragrance royalty. The only other places you’ll find these olfactory treasures? Selfridges and Harrods. So yes, I cleared my calendar and added a facial.
I knew I was about to enter a world of velvet, oud, and unlimited champagne – and I was absolutely ready. Champagne? I Didn’t Even Blink. When I arrived at Galeries de Parfums, Hyde Park Corner, I was greeted by a Moët & Chandon mini bar straight out of my most luxurious daydream. The barman – trained by actual sommeliers in Champagne, France – asked what I’d like. I said, “Something generous,” and he delivered. Moët in one hand and Glenmorangie in the other. I hadn’t even reached the fragrances yet, and the night was already giving decadence.
Then came the perfume walls. Oh, honey. Lined with the brand-new Amouroud Garden Collection, they shimmered like jewel boxes in soft lighting. The air was already thick with magic. Known for its bold, sultry oud, Amouroud had taken a surprising turn – this new collection whispered florals, but in a way that still carried drama. Think roses drenched in mystery, jasmine blooming at midnight, oud softened but still smouldering. I dabbed. I sniffed. I swooned.
Soon, the gallery filled with Johannesburg’s most divine creatures – influencers, CEOs, stylists, and socialites, each one more fabulous than the last. The kind of crowd where every detail, from perfume to pedicure, had a point. Champagne flowed like water. The finger foods? Tiny works of art. There was laughter, networking, selfies, and an unspoken rule: look good, smell expensive.
The room hushed as Galeries de Parfums’ senior manager took to the floor, guiding us through the story behind the Garden Collection. He spoke of floral notes like verses in a poem and oud like a secret passed down through generations. It was part presentation, part love letter to scent – and we hung on every word. And then – the gift! Just when I thought the night couldn’t possibly outdo itself… We were each handed a full-sized bottle from the Garden Collection. Not a tester. Not a voucher. An actual, gorgeous, heavy-in-the-hand bottle. I gasped. I clutched. I nearly cried.
Let’s not forget: Galeries de Parfums is the only place in Africa licensed to sell Amouroud. This isn’t just luxury – it’s global prestige. Harrods and Selfridges are the only other spots on Earth with that honour. So, being there that night? It meant something. Final Thoughts from Zee? I came for the fragrance. I stayed for the fantasy. The guests? Iconic.
The hosts? Impossibly generous. The experience? 10/10. No notes. Perfume, power, and pure indulgence. Until next time, darling… Scented kisses. – @NewsSA_Online
Please like, follow and engage with us on our social media platforms, links below: