As we turn the page to the Spring months ahead, we sat down with Audrey Gruss to find out what is going on in the world of Hope Fragrances, depression research and her flourishing garden!
1. You love the changing seasons. Is there a particular significance this season holds for you?
Spring is about rebirth and renewal. It’s the season of anticipation as we usher out the remnants of Winter and welcome in new experiences. It’s the season of serendipity where you never know what wonderful new thing you will discover. I love to see my dull winter gardens evolve over a matter of weeks into fully vibrant places for birds, butterflies and bees. Most of all, I enjoy seeing the world around me come to life with parties, graduations and weddings! It’s all so wonderful.
2. What do you do at the first signs of spring?
When all traces of winter have disappeared– all the waste and dead leaves accumulated over the winter months, the excess branches, and obstacles that inhibit growth are finally removed– that is the true start of Spring. In early April, I consider adding new plants and flowers to the garden. Most people do a spring cleaning of their homes, removing items that they have outgrown and no longer need. Likewise, annual spring cleaning in the garden is essential to spur vibrant growth. Just like in the garden, we must remove the baggage and waste that hold us back from realizing our full potential in life.
3. What are you looking forward to this season?
Audrey Gruss harvesting some lily-of-the-valley in her floral garden.
There are a few places that I love more than being surrounded by the beauty of my floral garden. The many rows of lily-of-the-valley and the Kousa dogwood trees blooming in late May and the colorful hydrangeas, blooming in July are just some of the visual delights of the season! The beauty of these flowers is the product of hours and hours of labor. The time and effort is worth it when I see the pleasure it brings to my loved ones when they swing by for a visit. A garden in bloom is one of the things I look forward to every spring.
4. You love decorating your home to reflect the current seasonal trends. What colors do you have in mind for your home décor this season?
Audrey Gruss displaying the floral arrangements in her home.
One of my favorite colors, sometimes considered my signature color is yellow–the color of the first hope fragrance I launched. It’s the accent color that I use in my common spaces in my home. This color is so special to me as it is a symbol of the joy I try to share with the world every day. It’s a certain shade of yellow that is strong, bright, uplifting and a symbol of optimism. The other color that I love very much and that can be found in my home especially at springtime is lime green. It’s such a light, happy color; it’s like bringing the sights of my newly-awakened garden indoors.
5. How do you remain motivated and what are your favorite outdoor activities?
I love to remain active year-round, but especially in the spring when the temperature is newly warm but still crisp. I love gardening of course. Reading by the pool. Entertaining friends. As the weather starts warming up and the days get longer, I keep my heart full and active with frequent visits with loved ones. Seeing the family grow every year is just nourishment for my soul. And also for my heart, as I run around, trying to keep up with the young ones!
6. Is there a favorite US destination or city that you like to visit this time of the year?
One of the places I love visiting in the US is Los Angeles, California. Besides having beautiful weather most of the year, amazing food, culture and entertainment, what sets LA apart for me is the beautiful homes and landscaping in places like Beverly Hills and Bel Air. The ocean being so close by, the valleys and dips of the hills and the sights of the mountains are truly surreal. Additionally, I enjoy the “Hollywood” fashion and style. Whether it’s at dinner at a trendy restaurant, a movie opening or award show, the fashion is always made to impress.
7. What fragrance are you wearing today?
It is not Spring without Hope Sport–a fresh green citrus floral fragrance that rejuvenates you to the core! Hope Sport is formulated with 2 of the most uplifting white flowers–tuberose and lily-of-the-Valley–and a unique green citrus note to add an energizing feel. When I have a day filled with different activities, Hope Sport works with my body chemistry to keep me fresh and ready to conquer the day! This fragrance comes in a large 1.7 oz perfume and a 1.0 oz purse spray size, perfect for traveling or your gym bag! Hope Sport is my go-to perfume for the season.
Audrey Gruss sampling the Hope Sport fragrance.
When you first spray Hope Sport it’s as though you are walking on freshly-cut grass after a spring rain. The green citrus flavor is unique and feels like an explosion of energy tantalizing your senses. Then you walk into an enchanted garden bursting with delightful sights and sounds. The floral notes emerge: Lily-of-the-Valley and Tuberose. And you feel like going from flower to flower, breathing in the mesmerizing scents! Hope Sport is serendipity in a bottle!
