I love the hell out of Southern California, but autumn here feels like summer half the time, and I hate that. Since becoming a mom, a quick trip to the mountains to look at leaves takes a little more coordination. So, I hang leaf garlands in the courtyard, simmer oranges and cinnamon, and put on my November playlist; all little things I do to chase autumn.
This year I added Ffern’s Autumn 26 to that list. And let me say, I had no plans on purchasing it, especially because I’m trying to buy less and buy more slowly when I do. But I saw the beautiful Autumn campaign, realized I was low on my Henry Rose perfumes and felt so curious and intrigued by Ffern’s beautiful film capturing the scent of Autumn 26. I waited a full month before I ordered it to make sure I researched it enough and wasn’t leaning into an impulsive purchase.
The box arrived the morning I left for Idyllwild. I wanted to open it immediately, but instead I set it on my passenger seat, and waited until I got to the cabin at sunset. Inside was art I’d frame, two bags of tea, a scent stone, and a little hare pin that’s already on my favorite blazer. There was also a separate sample so I could try it before opening the full bottle. This part is genius because it lets you try and return the fragrance for a refund and you also get to keep all the goodies that came in the box.
I sprayed the stone first. Moonlit Heather felt subtle, romantic, and a little mysterious, like walking through tall, dry grass with the moon smiling down. By the time I left the cabin that evening, I was wearing it and knew I’d keep the bottle. I went up the mountain chasing autumn and thanks to Ffern, I think I found her.
