Recently, we sad down with Audrey Gruss, founder of Hope Fragrances, to catch up on all the happenings with Hope and what she is up to this summer.
1. You love the changing of the seasons. What makes Spring special for you and what are you looking forward to heading into Summer?
There is nothing better than turning the page to the wonderful season of growth and rebirth. In the Spring, the scent of dewy rain in my garden eventually leads to the beauty surrounding us for the rest of the year. I see the growth of some of my favorite plants that were dormant during the winter months and the return of all those lovely birds that add to the esthetics of a Spring garden. All of our senses are rejuvenated and heightened; we can see, hear, smell and feel uplifted. One of the things I look forward to most happens in late May, when the lily-of-the valley, one of the signature notes in Hope Fragrances, finally begins its blooming journey. The garden beds blanketed by lily-of-the-valley are an amazing sight to behold at the start of summer!
Audrey in her garden surrounded by lily-of-the-valley.
2. Earlier in May you celebrated Mother’s Day. What was your favorite moment of that holiday?
Mother’s Day is so precious to me. My own beloved mother Hope left us over 20 years ago. Every Mother’s Day I reminisce about the loving, talented and creative woman she was. The memories of moments I spent with my mother are a source of comfort and joy till this day. So I believe that the most precious gift you can give anyone is a few moments of your time. For this past Mother’s Day, I spent valuable time with my husband and close family. Whether it’s breakfast in bed or a sublime stroll on the Bow Bridge in Central Park, it’s always the small gestures that are most meaningful to me. A handwritten note, some flowers and a warm hug are all I need to know that you are thinking of me. There is nothing better in the world than sharing these special moments with the people you love.
The Bow Bridge is a cast iron bridge located in Central Park, New York City, crossing over The Lake
3. Is that a sentiment that resonates with you today?
Absolutely. I’ve been inspired by people making little moments matter through beautiful yet simple gestures that bring joy and hope to their loved ones. Life is unpredictable. We must make the most of it and spend time with those close to us that share our joy.
Pictured: Hope Night Scented Candle
4. What is a must-have for your home decor, something that makes you and your guests feel special?
I love scented candles. I think they are so romantic and add much style and grace to the ambiance of a room. I usually light a few pairs around the house–in the entrance hall and living room– whenever I’m entertaining at home. I also enjoy placing candles outdoors when we are dining on the terrace. Just before dusk, the scent of the candles wafts in the evening breeze setting the mood for laughter and good cheer.
5. What’s exciting for you in perfume today? Â
I love scents that push boundaries. I love fragrance notes that are innovative and not widely common. That is why I’m fascinated by some unisex fragrances out there. The fusion of traditionally feminine notes, such as vanilla and rose with masculine notes, such as vetiver and musk—this mélange is so innovative and perks up my nose. We are always exploring these types of new blends for the future, as we look for new ways to please our customers.
6. You love to please your friends too. What are the little things you like to do to improve someone’s day and make someone smile?
When one of my loved ones is going through a difficult time, I express my love and concern by spending time with them. For my women friends, I like to have tea or lunch at my home and have long meaningful conversations. Giving someone you undevoted attention in a comfortable, intimate setting makes them feel special and cared for. I often give friends a lovely table favor to take home as well. The Hope purse spray or Hope Candle are ideal.
Audrey Gruss holding the Hope Sport 50ml fragrance.
7. What is your go-to scent at the moment?
My go-to fragrance right this moment is the Hope Sport EDP, that comes in 2 sizes. This scent is so special to me. It is formulated with floral notes such as Lily-of-the-Valley and Tuberose and a fresh youthful green citrusy note that invigorates you! It is like a burst of energy in a bottle. I have a full-size bottle on my dresser and carry a travel-size spray in my purse or gym bag when I go out. When I spray it on at the beginning of a non-stop day, I feel like I can accomplish so much more as I step out in the city.
8. You founded Hope For Depression Research over 20 years ago. How do you stay motivated with your daily work?
Progress is my motivator. We have made such great strides on depression research and shifted the narrative around mental health by helping to remove the stigma often associated with it. All of that makes me so very proud of the work that we do every day. Improving people’s lives and bringing hope and joy to others now through fragrance– those are my ultimate motivators.
9. What do you like to do to improve your mood and to maintain strong mental health?
Maintaining strong mental health is an ongoing challenge in these stressful times. There are so many things, both internal and external, that can weigh one down, especially things out of your control. Spending time with my friends and family and enjoying familiar places really puts things in perspective. I look forward to re-discovering my city and reconnecting with my community through an event-filled summer. My mood becomes positive when I am fully present, engaged and living in the moment. And stays that way longer.
10. What are you looking forward to over the next few months?
Clockwise from the top left:: NYC Botanical Gardens, the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, and Bryant Park.
I’m looking forward to my NYC staycation. I love the city so much and everything that it offers, I sometimes don’t experience it to the level I would like. So I plan on taking time to play tourist and visit different destinations around the city such as  Central Park, the 911 Memorial downtown and even the Statue of Liberty. I hope to get up to the Empire State Building, a monumental structure that I haven’t visited in many years. The view from the top is amazing and showcases the gorgeous skyline with its many hidden treasures channel so much of the city’s energy.
