Welcome to the world of Crosskey Avenue

Hello and a warm welcome to our new blog. Here we will aim to share some insights from our start-up journey, the world of perfume, our growing brand and some topical bits and bobs thrown in for good measure. This time I thought I’d briefly introduce myself and share a little about Crosskey Avenue.

I’m Howard, the founder and director of Crosskey Avenue, an upstart boutique perfume house based out of south east London. My background is in communications but earlier in the year I found myself at a career crossroads, unsure of what my next move should be, but deep down knowing something needed to change. Cue starting my own business, aka my labour of love! It’s something I’ve always dreamed about, and along came the time and the opportunity, so I’ve jumped at it. Based out of my home and sharing the sofa with my two French Bulldogs I set about making my dream happen. Fast forward a crash course in perfume with a wonderful teacher called Zaga and I was ready to start getting creative.  

Photo: my new co-workers 

I’ve always been fascinated by our olfactory senses; it has the power to evoke so many emotions and memories in all of us. Like every time I smell the warm resinous fragrance of the cypress tree, instantly I’m transported back to joyous childhood holidays in Greece spent with my family. Fragrance can play a key role in bringing us comfort and joy through its ability to evoke memories and emotions. Through my Crosskey Avenue brand I want to create pathways for our lost memories and joyful occasions through perfume, celebrating its innate ability to trigger human emotions.

Photo: making holiday memories in Greece

Given this last year travel hasn’t been an option for most of us, I decided my launch collection would be inspired by memories of past travels around the world. Launched earlier this month our three new soy blend candles, each highly fragranced with a sophisticated perfume that include essential oils, have been inspired by global holiday destinations favoured by the discerning traveller. They’ve been almost a year in the making… let’s meet your new favourite candles shall we?

Photo: The first Crosskey Avenue candles coming off the line

1. Uplifting yet floral Ischia – Italian lemons combined with the sweet perfume of freshly cut red roses in this luxurious fragrance full of abundance. Inspired by summer getaways to the fertile volcanic Italian island of Ischia, this zesty yet floral fragrance mixes with notes of tomato leaf and Mediterranean cypress.
2. Zen like heavenly Langkawi - Inspired by the relaxing scents of Malaysia’s tropical island paradise. Heavenly frangipani combines with milky coconut and fresh lemongrass to create this irresistibly luxurious fragrance. Breathe in and let us take you on a soothing walk along white sandy beaches as the warm waves gently lap at your feet.
3. Cosy evening bliss Haputale – the delicate scent of blue water lily, bergamot and chamomile help evoke the wonderous tea growing Hill Country region of Sri Lanka. This rich spicy fragrance has hints of pink pepper and reminds us of cosy nights sipping warm tea on the terrace looking out over well-tended tea fields.  

Photo: The Crosskey Avenue launch collection 

All my Crosskey Avenue candles are made in England by professional Chandlers with over 130 years of experience. A soy blend wax is used with a cotton wick to ensure the highest quality burn and maximum perfume throw.

Thanks for reading my first blog and taking an interest in Crosskey Avenue. I aim to update this page regularly so keep an eye out for future updates. If you’ve any suggestions for future posts just drop them into the comments below.

Love and candlelight, Howard 🕯