By Stephanie Audette
What does a flirt, vixen, or socialite smell like? U of M grad Hannah Follis offers her interpretation with Aromi solid perfumes. After studying chemistry and biology in school and working in the lab for a home fragrance company, she realized she could combine her passions for science and beauty. She began making fragrances and cosmetics for herself before family and friends were asking for her creations. Aromi was born.
Style Parlor: What inspired you to create Aromi?
Hannah Follis: I wanted to create fragrances and perfume for myself so I knew exactly what was going on my skin and face. I’ve always used beauty products as a way to express myself. I wanted to create products that help women feel great about themselves. Aromi gives me the opportunity to fulfill both my science interests and my very girly side with the cosmetics and fragrances.
SP: What makes your products stand out from all the rest out there on the market?
HF: Every single product is handcrafted in the Aromi laboratory. The solid perfumes are multi-functional. Because of the ingredients used in the formulas, they work great as a cuticle cream, skin moisturizer (hands, elbows, etc.—especially good for dry, winter skin), and as a hair pomade. They are also fairly compact so they’re easy to carry in a clutch, purse, or bag.
We also offer solid colognes which is really unique—so unique that I’ve never seen it in another store! They have quirky names, which make them a great gift—Outdoor Guy, Sexy Man, Very Manly, etc. I created this product originally for my brother as a joke because when he was a teenager he would cake on the body spray and cologne. I wanted to create a way for him to wear cologne without overdoing it. I called the fragrance “Very Manly” mostly because I thought he would think it was funny. This fragrance has been the #1 seller for the Aromi solid colognes.
My lipstick, lip gloss, and mineral eyeshadows are all vegan and cruelty-free products. I use organic and natural ingredients whenever possible. Aromi lipstick is packed with Vitamins C and E, capuacu, avocado and aloe butters, and natural oils. My favorite thing about Aromi lip gloss is that they are not sticky at all. I personally hate sticky lip gloss so it was important to me to formulate one that had a luxurious shine that was smooth. Aromi loose mineral eyeshadows can be applied with a wet brush for a more dramatic look and also works well as eyeliner if applied wet.
SP: Which is your favorite beauty product or essential that you would never leave home without?
HF: I always have my lip gloss (Pink, Pixie, or Snob) and solid perfume (Amazing, Socialite, and Delicious are my favorites) in my purse. When I dress up, I really like to wear Jaqueminot Lipstick because it is such a bold, vibrant red lipstick. I also really like Merlot Lipstick for this season—a darker, maroon-purple shade.
Aromi beauty products and fragrances are sold at stores around the metro, including i like you, martinpatrick3, Paper Hat, Moss Envy, CorAzoN, Quince, and Finding Joy. Fans should be on the lookout for Follis’ liquid perfumes, which will be launching soon, and available through the Aromi website.
