Valentine’s Day is a season of stories—tales of love, good memories, and deeply held connections. For Colleen Nelms, founder of Othús Perfumery, storytelling is the essence of her craft. “Perfume is storytelling,” Nelms shares. “It’s about creating an experience, a memory, or a feeling through scent.”
Othús Perfumery, nestled intimately in a small structure in Nelms’ Decatur backyard, invites customers on an aromatic journey. Nelms draws on her background in botany and natural medicine to craft plant-based perfumes that are profoundly personal and evocative. Each fragrance begins with a thought or memory. For example, her scent "Zephyr" is inspired by a New Orleans breeze, while "Midnight Magnolia" evokes the sultry blooms of a Southern summer night.
Choosing a perfume for a loved one is an intimate gesture. Nelms advises starting with a simple question: “How do you want the perfume to make them feel?” Whether warm and comforting or bold and vibrant, the right scent can communicate many distinct feelings or emotions. Nelms takes the time to understand a person’s preferences—florals, woods, or musks—and curates a selection to match their lifestyle and personality.
For Nelms, creating perfumes is an art: a balance of storytelling, chemistry, and experimentation. Her fragrances are layered and complex, designed to evolve with the wearer. “Perfume should first and foremost be enjoyed by you,” she emphasizes. “It’s a luxury that helps you feel special and connected.”
Othús Perfumery also reflects Nelms’s commitment to sustainability and local artistry with eco-friendly packaging and collaborations with area designers and illustrators. This Valentine’s, visit her website or find her at an area market like Mother Lode in Avondale Estates to find the perfect scent for your special someone—or treat yourself to writing a new story through scent.