Lavender essential oil used in making perfume

Farm Journal  ·  April 30, 2025

Experience the Art of Perfumery with Press Gurwitz Perfumerie at Lavender Festival 2025

The scent of lavender is more than just calming, it's timeless. And this July, we’re bringing fragrance history to life with a special guest at Farmstead 1868's Cazenovia Lavender Festival: Victor Rakovich with Press Gurwitz Perfumerie.

Victor Rakovich, a master of the olfactory arts, known for his handcrafted, nature-inspired fragrances that blend tradition with modern craft, is the owner of Press Gurwitz Perfumerie. His creations are more than perfumes, they’re personal talismans, rooted in healing, storytelling, and the natural world. And at this year’s festival, you’ll have the unique opportunity to see, smell, and learn from him firsthand.

During his interactive demonstrations, Victor will guide you through the fascinating origins of modern perfumery, from ancient lavender baths to the revolutionary impact of 19th-century scent science. You’ll explore the story of Fougère Royale, the fragrance that changed everything in 1882, when Master Perfumer Paul Parquet combined lavender, oakmoss, and coumarin (extracted from Tonka Bean) to create a completely new fragrance family: the fougères.

This demo isn’t just a history lesson, it’s a hands-on sensory experience. Attendees will experience Fougère Royale, the classic fragrance structure, using both traditional and modern natural materials and Farmstead 1868 lavender essential oil.

Try, Shop, and Connect

In addition to demonstrations, Victor will be a featured vendor all weekend long, offering his line of artisan perfumes, each bottle a celebration of nature, transformation, and personal empowerment. His booth is a must-visit for those seeking something beautiful, meaningful, and deeply aromatic to take home.

Don’t Miss this is a rare opportunity to learn the true art of perfumery from an expert who honors both science and soul in every bottle. Whether you’re a fragrance enthusiast or simply curious, you’ll walk away inspired, and smelling amazing.

The 2025 Cazenovia Lavender Festival is July 5, & 6, 2025. Reserve your tickets here!

For more information on Press Gurwitz Perfumerie, visit their site at www.pressgurwitz.com or visit their Instagram: @press_perfumerie.

About the Lavender Festival

Hosted on our scenic farm in Cazenovia, NY, the Lavender Festival is a celebration of agriculture, wellness, and small business. With 20+ vendors, classes, live music, local food, and immersive demos, this event is designed to bring our community together through the power of plants, people, and place.

Lavender flowers and farm silos at Farmstead 1868 in Cazenovia NY