IPBA 22nd Annual UK Chapter Convention

The IPBA – UK Annual Convention in Leicester October 14 & 15 was more than just a gathering of like-minded individuals; it was an opportunity to celebrate the art of perfumery, share cherished collections, and foster lifelong friendships.

An intriguing pre-convention tour to Stourbridge (the home of Cameo glass) had taken place the day before, allowing participants to explore the Stourbridge Museum and the town’s rich history in glass production dating back to the 1600’s.

Phyllis Dohanian, UK Chair, opened the convention with a celebratory champagne toast, and a group photo and message from the UK Chapter for IPBA Day.

This was followed by Teri Wirth, the President of IPBA, providing attendees with an insightful update on current events for the IPBA including highlights of the Italy tour and the recent Stourbridge Tour along with some insights to the Newport Convention in 2024.

Martin Glick, a collector with a unique passion for opera glasses, took the stage to share his experiences, including his recent appearance on the Antiques Roadshow, where he showcased some of his remarkable collection.

One of the highlights of the convention was Angie Coonie’s presentation, which delved into the world of Jean Paul Gaultier’s limited-edition perfumes. This presentation was created by Shelley Bechtold for the Go Figure! Symposium, at the 2023 Dallas Convention.

Virginia Merrill, the IPBA Webmaster, offered attendees a virtual tour of the IPBA website, showcasing its impressive array of resources and features, further enhancing the sense of community among members. The website is a treasure trove of information and networking opportunities for perfume and vanity item enthusiasts and collectors.

Professor Mary Robertson, a distinguished figure in the world of medicine and perfume, presented her latest literary creation, “The Marriage between Perfume and the Lyric Stage: The Essence of Opera.” Her talk provided attendees with a deep dive into the intricate relationship between fragrance and the world of opera, offering a unique perspective on these two art forms.

The convention concluded on a high note on Sunday, featuring a Sale room and Collectors market, where attendees had the chance to explore a myriad of perfumes, bottles, and collectibles. The day culminated with an unforgettable raffle, giving lucky participants the chance to take home some exceptional prizes.

As the perfume bottles exchanged hands and stories were swapped, one thing was clear: the magic of fragrance had once again brought people together, making this event an unforgettable experience for all.