What is the IPBA? The International Perfume Bottle Association was established in July 1988 in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA, during a convention of the Federation of Historical Bottle Collectors. Information about the new group was spread through antique dealers and publications. By the end of its first year, membership had grown to 375. The IPBA now boasts members from 16 different countries worldwide.
The purpose of the IPBA is to provide information and education about all aspects of perfume and scent bottles, compacts, purses, ephemera, and other related vanity items. This includes researching their uses, history, manufacture, and significance.
The IPBA held its first convention in 1989 in Dearborn, Michigan. Now we hold conventions annually in various locations throughout the United States. The 4-day event features the world’s largest perfume bottle and vanity item auction and an extensive vendor exhibition and sale. Presentations and round table discussions during the Annual Convention provide an informative, conversational approach.
We encourage education through well researched articles in the Perfume Bottle Quarterly (PBQ) magazine. Our website contains a Virtual Museum with over 9,000 perfume and vanity items. We also have a Lending Library and a monthly email newsletter.
Getting to know other members who live within an area or collect the same items enhances the enjoyment of the hobby. The IPBA has 9 active regional chapters around the world, as well as a Compacts and Vanities specialty group. A Member Directory promotes member camaraderie by listing members’ names alphabetically and geographically, along with their individual collecting focuses.
We also have multiple social media connections, which offer an exchange of information, and generate friendships among IPBA members. Periodic global Zoom meetings where members can share perfume and vanity items fitting a theme foster global friendships.
Importantly, the IPBA is a member-driven organization. Every member is important to IPBA’s vitality and growth. All new members — beginners or experienced —are welcome!
IPBA is a member of The Federation of Historical Bottle Collectors [FoHBC].
