Introducing Laura Ballin: The Founder of Ode to Self
At Sensoriam, we are proud to celebrate the creators behind the perfumes we curate — the artists, alchemists, and natural beauty advocates who pour their hearts into every drop. Today, we’re honoured to introduce Laura Ballin, the founder and formulator behind ODE TO SELF, a slow perfumery born from deep emotion, naturopathic insight, and the sacred ritual of self-connection.
Laura’s fragrances are rich in heart and intention. With a background in holistic health and a respect for the earth’s resources, she crafts natural perfumes that honour your hormones, your emotional wellbeing, and your essence. Each scent is a story — a moment, a memory, a message to self.
We’re thrilled to share her journey with you.
How did you become interested in natural perfumery? How long has ODE TO SELF been around?
ODE TO SELF Perfumery made her official debut in 2020 however I started creating my own perfumes a few years prior. I craved a creative outlet from my Naturopathic studies, and found scent a useful tool in supporting my body and mind through emotional hardships.
What or who inspires your work in creating fragrances?
I’ll start with a personal memory, emotion or destination, then lean on botanicals that reflect this. The scent, colour and aromatherapy properties of each botanical are all considered. Knowledge of botanicals through my naturopathic work also influences our creations.
How have your life experiences led you to becoming an entrepreneur and launching your own business?
Past health issues guided me to the world of holistic health and natural perfumery. Being an Aries, I tend to like to do things my own way.. So launching my own business fit the bill!
What was your previous experience in the world of perfume?
To be completely honest, I grew up lathering myself in Ed Hardy, Impulse and other intensely sweet synthetic fragrances. It wasn’t until my late teens when modelling overseas that I grew a love for designer perfume that later shifted to the world of natural perfumery and holistic health - I’ve come a long way!
What is ODE TO SELF all about for you?
It’s about connecting with the most authentic version of you; stripping back the layers, the noise, and truly understanding how to honour your unique self. Whether it’s through Naturopathic consultations or a perfume used in self-care rituals, I’m always encouraging this core message.
What makes your products unique?
Our perfumes are produced slowly in-house with heart and therapeutic intention. Our customers' health, hormones and emotional wellbeing are considered and respected.
Who is the perfumer you work with or do you create the scents yourself? How did you decide to work with them?
Our perfume formulations are created by yours truly!
How do you choose and source your natural ingredients?
We have various suppliers across Australia and overseas that we trust for their quality and consistency. Using raw materials, it’s important to be aware of over-harvestation, so we’re always updating our knowledge on endangered species. For example, we use Australian Sandalwood essential oils extracted only from “deadwood”, wood that has naturally died prior to being harvested.
How would you describe the character or personality of your fragrances?
Those wearing Ardour are bold, passionate, sensual, vivacious and a lot of fun.
Our Ethereal angels are big dreamers with a gentle, empathetic and graceful nature.
The personality of Unfurl is sweet natured, young-at-heart, playful and elegant.
PURCHASE ARDOUR BY ODE TO SELF AT SENSORIAM
Ardour is an alluring scent, offering a beautiful balance of feminine and masculine energy.
PURCHASE ETHEREAL BY ODE TO SELF AT SENSORIAM
Ethereal is a delicate and joyous scent that can be worn day to night.
PURCHASE UNFURL BY ODE TO SELF AT SENSORIAM
Unfurl is a soft yet sensual scent, taking you from day to night.
What aspects of your work bring you the most satisfaction or joy?
The satisfaction of filtering and bottling perfumes that have been aging slowly for three months is pretty magical. And anytime I’ve been able to collaborate with creative friends to produce beautiful film campaigns and imagery.
Do you have a story or a moment in business so far that you cherish deeply?
Launching our Eau de parfums, and receiving so much love for them, was such a special moment I’ll hold onto forever.
What challenges do you face in the world of natural perfumery?
Ingredients aren’t always easily available which can make sourcing more difficult (and expensive!) compared to if we used synthetics. But the end result is worth it!
What’s your dream for the future?
That more people understand the benefits and beauty of natural perfumery.
What are the current trends you are seeing in perfumery and in natural perfumery? What impact is AI having in the world of perfumery & what do you think of it?
Genderless and mood + energy enhancing scents are trending; both which have been rooted in our ethos from the get-go!
Of course AI has a beneficial impact on various aspects of perfumery. However I’m yet to be convinced that it assists the creative process of perfume formulation. Spending time exploring ingredients for a new formulation is so special and creates a truly unique perfume, rather than a scent built solely on data and market trends.
When do you wear each of your scents?
Ardour is saved for date night, or when I’m needing some warmth and grounding. Ethereal is currently my day to day scent as it’s soft but lingers beautifully. Whereas Unfurl comes out to play for day time events, or when I’m leaning into my feminine.
What is an inspiring quote or mantra that you live by / love / inspires you daily?
You are your home, go gently.
At Sensoriam, we’re honoured to showcase brands like ODE TO SELF — where slow perfumery, emotional integrity, and deep respect for the natural world converge. Every bottle is an invitation to return to yourself.
Explore Laura’s beautiful creations:
