There is something about Mary

It was a whirlwind week last week and with celebrity PA's, meetings and lunches, that my dear diary rather resembled confetti it had been flicked through so much. Of course the talk of the town was the big 'switch on' at House of Fraser when the utterly fabulous Elizabeth Hurley flicked the switch and turned the iconic store pink for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Her inspirational speech touched many and she spent time signing autographs for her fans too. Sadly I missed it . Imagine choosing a date with ones dentist over Liz. I know, I know. Gutted ! I did have a look at the news clips and she looked effortlessly glam in her pink figure hugging Herve Leger dress. Luckily I  had the chance to catch up with Make Up Artist and another Icon, Mary Greenwell who was not only up in the city to do Liz's Make-Up but to talk about her first foray into the world of fragrance.

Over lunch we talked about our favourite foundations, brands and her extensive client list as if we were old friends. A genuinely warm and funny person who had me spellbound with her stories and general love of life and the world she lives and works in. She presented her scent with pride and it was clear that Plum is as  captivating and stylish as Mary herself. Created by Francois Robert, fourth generation perfumer this contemporary chypre blends top notes of peach, blackcurrant and plum with a heart of gardenia, tuberose and orange flower absolute before resting on precious woods, oak moss and patchouli. I loved the harmonious mix of classic and modern, fun, fruity notes. Again similar to my experience of Mary.

I asked Mary why she did  not go down the obvious route of a make-up line? She replied '' there are already so many great brands out there developed by me peers, like Laura Mercier and Nars whom I both adore'' she added ''scent is something I have always loved and to me the final touch in any makeover ''.

When it comes to Mary's client list its as case of asking who she hasn't worked with, rather than who she has.The reply list would indeed be much shorter. I admired her enthusiasm and creative input into her new project as she had a clear idea about packaging and design too. Although Mary presented me with my very own bottle I had to pop into House of Fraser and buy the candle too. I'm just wishing I had asked her to sign it for me. Until next time Mary !

PLUM by Mary Greenwell £60.00 for 50mls. Candle £36.00
Available at House of Fraser http://www.houseoffraser.co.uk/