Tonya Kidd-Beggs | Stories Parfums

Established by founder Tonya Kidd-Beggs, Stories Parfums is an olfactory ode to the memories that have shaped her life and was created to transport the mind and emotions. Each fragrance is created by Tonya in homage to her own stories and captures a moment unlocking a memory significant to herself. Stories Parfums is a suggestion to explore our own past, present and future. We caught up with her to get an in-depth story about her inspiration behind the company.

A: As my children grew up and got older I went on pursuit of a new hobby, which led me to Grasse in the South of France and started learning the art of perfumery. It was an epiphany for me because the creation process brought back long forgotten memories and I realised the power of fragrance to heal, release and transcend my own personal tragedy. My fragrance house was born as a testament of the power of fragrance and to the stories which have shaped my own life.  Fragrance has always been a way for me to connect with who I am and what matters to me and by sharing my fragrances I hope to give people the space to stop and connect with either their past, their present or even dream for their future. I believe everyone has a story to tell!

 Q: What makes your products unique from the rest?

A: I passionately believe in beauty without boundaries and have positioned STORIES Parfums as a forerunner in what I like to call the ‘new niche’.  In defining the ‘new niche’ we proudly bring luxury and sustainability together in the world of fine fragrance. Whilst our story may have started with deep roots in traditional methods and ancient craftsmanship, our ethos is that of a thoroughly modern brand. Intuitive, inclusive, and always accessible.

Q: Which of your products is your favourite?

A: I have two boys and twin girls and this is like asking me to choose between them - each one is unique and is special to me, each one carries their own story. I do not put perfumes into season or gender... I feel you should be able to lift a perfume no matter what the ingredient or season - it’s all about how it makes me feel!

Q: What smell reminds you of holidays the most and why?

A: I love the scent after spending the day relaxing on the beach, the smell of sand by the ocean, the hot sun on the sand, the smell of burnt grass and the scent of jasmine, lavender, wild mimosa and myrtle as the sun goes down.

Q: Where is the best beach you’ve ever visited?

A: Hua Hin Thailand and Quinta do Lago in Algarve.

Q: Where is your next holiday destination? 

A: Algarve and then on to the Amalfi Coast.

Q: In my travel bag you will always find…

A: SPF, Perricone MD No Makeup Foundation, STORIES refillable travel size perfumes and lip balm.

Q: What would be your must have swimwear and beachwear piece from Melissa Odabash?

A: I have been wearing Melissa Odabash since 1999 and it's the only bikini I wear. The great thing about Melissa's swimwear is it suits every body shape and age. I am also never without one of her kaftans and dresses.  I have my eyes on the new orange range.