LOCAL BOY: Now pioneering an international fashion and perfume brand, Jakob Carter says he owes a lot to the community he grew up in on the Coast. Photo supplied
Paul Charman
An Ōpōtiki man now promoting his own fashion and perfume brand internationally is running workshops in town between now and the end of the year.
Jakob Carter’s workshops called “Sip & Scent”, are being billed as an opportunity to give people a behind-the-scenes look at how the products are made, from fragrance blending to candle pouring.
“Guests get to create their own candle, tour the warehouse, enjoy food and drinks, and hear the story of how the brand started right here in Ōpōtiki,” Mr Carter said.
“It’s about creativity, connection, and community and I love that we get to do this with the community that supported me from when it first started.”
Tickets, available via Mr Carter’s website https://jakobcarter.com/products/warehouse-tour, include all supplies, food, drinks, and the take-home candle.
The next Sip & Scent is tonight followed by events on November 20, 21 and 28.
Mr Carter’s company designs and produces premium fragrances, including collaborations like Human by Stan Walker and 333 by Jono Castano.
The products are sold in over 450 stores across New Zealand and Australia, while plans are underway to expand soon into the US.
“The business operates with warehouses in Ōpōtiki, Sydney, and soon Los Angeles, and every element of the brand from concept to packaging is crafted by myself.
“A dream that started in a small town in what feels like the corner of the world, is now growing into other countries and it’s all made right here in Ōpōtiki.”