The New Savant: 10 Key Things You Must Know

Overview

The New Savant is an innovative fragrance studio known for its artisanal candles and unique olfactory experiences. Founded in December 2020 by Ingrid Nilsen and Erica Anderson, this Brooklyn-based company quickly gained attention for its vivid scents that often reflect personal stories and experiences. They stand out not only for their quality but also for their associations with personal identity and memory. In this article, you'll discover various intriguing aspects of The New Savant, from its origins to its creative processes and more.

1. Founding and Origins

The New Savant was born out of Ingrid Nilsen's transition from a prominent YouTube star to a scent entrepreneur. After retiring from social media, Nilsen partnered with Erica Anderson, using her newfound freedom to explore a long-standing passion for fragrances. They founded the company in Brooklyn, New York, with the aim of creating complex, personal scents that connect with consumers on an emotional level.

2. Scent Studio Concept

Positioned as a modern fragrance studio, The New Savant blends high-end, original scents with approachable materials. Each candle is handcrafted, reflecting a commitment to sustainability and artisanal techniques. The fragrances capture the multifaceted aspects of human experiences, often inspired by personal memories and stories.

3. Artistic Inspiration

Ingrid Nilsen’s diverse background significantly influences The New Savant’s products. Having a mixed heritage—Norwegian and Thai—her scents often incorporate unique notes like jasmine rice, capturing cultural nuances. Each fragrance tells its own story, making it not just a scent but an experience that triggers memory and emotion.

4. Candlemaking Process

Every candle is meticulously handmade using sustainably sourced components. Nilsen begins with precise olfactive briefs, which are developed into fragrances by esteemed perfumers. The careful crafting process ensures that each scent is not only appealing but also evokes specific emotions and memories.

5. Core Collection

The New Savant’s Core Collection consists of notable scents like Androgyne, Mixed Feelings, and The Dropout. These fragrances are designed to reflect a spectrum of moods and moments, often combining unconventional elements such as steamed rice, desert air, and driftwood. Each scent aims to transport the user to a different mental space, offering a reflective or energizing sensorial experience.

6. Community and Inclusivity

Founded by a queer, women-owned duo, inclusivity is at the heart of The New Savant’s philosophy. The brand champions diversity and self-expression, often featuring limited edition collections that celebrate LGBTQ culture. As such, they have cultivated a strong community that appreciates both their products and their values.

7. Market Presence and Popularity

Since its rapid sell-out upon launch, The New Savant has maintained a high demand for its products. The brand operates primarily through direct-to-consumer sales via online platforms, which has allowed them to maintain an intimate connection with their audience. The company has received vital support from networks like IU Ventures, which further solidifies its financial growth and market presence.

8. Sustainability and Ethics

Sustainability is at the core of The New Savant's mission. Their candles are vegan and made without parabens or phthalates, using upcycled materials and recyclable containers. The focus on ethical production ensures that each product not only smells good but also aligns with eco-conscious consumer values.

9. Challenges and Controversies

Like many startups, The New Savant has faced challenges, from scaling up production to managing brand perception. Despite these obstacles, they have remained committed to their creative vision, ensuring that each aspect of the business reflects their founding ethos and dedication to quality and community.

10. Partnerships and Collaborations

The New Savant has collaborated with various acclaimed entities to enhance their product offerings. Working with top fragrance houses such as Givaudan has allowed them to elevate their scents to global standards of quality while preserving their unique narrative style. These partnerships have been crucial in expanding their reach and further embedding their brand into the wider fragrance market.

Conclusion

The New Savant continues to enchant consumers with its unique approach to fragrance and storytelling. By integrating personal narratives and ethical practices, the brand has carved out a niche that celebrates identity, emotion, and memory. As they look to the future, Nilsen and Anderson aim to further broaden their creative horizons and product offerings, inviting consumers to explore the complex world of scent in ever new and exciting ways.