Jean-Paul Guerlain

Jean-Paul Guerlain, a scion of the illustrious Guerlain family, has left an indelible mark on the world of fragrance. Born in 1937 in Neuilly-sur-Seine, France, he was destined for greatness, yet faced a profound challenge when he lost his sight at sixteen. During this period, he immersed himself in developing his olfactory senses, guided by his grandfather, Jacques Guerlain, the creator of perfume legends like Shalimar. His early training involved menial tasks at the Guerlain factory, but his innate talent soon shone through, leading to the creation of iconic fragrances such as Vetiver, Samsara, and Champs-Elysées.

Jean-Paul’s artistry extended beyond fragrance creation; he was instrumental in expanding the Guerlain brand internationally while serving as its chairman from 1988 to 1996. Even after his official retirement in 2002, his enduring legacy continues through his continued contributions to Guerlain's storied portfolio.