Perfume with a Story: Geir Ness on Creating Laila and Chasing Dreams

In this interview, I had the pleasure of speaking with Geir Ness, the creative mind and heart behind the iconic fragrance Laila. What struck me most about Geir was not just his passion for perfume, but the deeply personal story that led him to create a scent that has touched so many people.

Geir grew up in Norway, where some of his fondest memories were walking through nature with his mother. Even as a young boy, his sense of smell was unusually sharp — something he now sees as the earliest sign of his future calling. Though he originally trained as an actor, it was during a weekend job selling perfume that inspiration struck: why not create a fragrance that captured the fresh, clean beauty of his homeland?

That idea eventually became Laila, named in honour of his mother. It’s more than a fragrance — it’s a tribute, a memory, and a dream come true.

Geir’s journey is one of determination, creativity, and trusting his instincts. Through bold ideas and seizing opportunities, he’s built a fragrance line that continues to grow, always staying close to the emotional roots that started it all. He spoke openly about the ups and downs, the surprises along the way, and the importance of staying connected to what truly inspires him.

Laila remains a favourite among fragrance lovers, not just for its beautiful scent but because of the story it tells. In our chat, Geir also shares more about the other perfumes he’s created — each with its own unique character — and how he continues to think outside the box when it comes to sharing his creations with the world.

This conversation is a reminder that dreams often start quietly — with a memory, a feeling, or a walk in the woods — and that with enough heart and courage, they really can become something beautiful.

https://geirness.com/