Join us as we open the World Perfumery Congress 2026 with an unforgettable evening celebrating the art, science, and business of fragrance. The Welcome Reception sets the tone for three days of discovery, innovation, and collaboration within the global perfumery community.

Mingle with industry leaders, master perfumers, and peers from around the world in a vibrant setting that reflects the creativity and elegance of our craft. Enjoy hors d’oeuvres and libations while reconnecting with colleagues and making new connections that will shape the future of fragrance.

This is your opportunity to network, exchange ideas, and immerse yourself in the world of scent as we kick off an extraordinary WPC 2026 experience.

Dress Code: Business Casual with a touch of chic
We recommend flat or wedge shoes for your comfort, as the terrain may be uneven.

Let’s raise a glass to innovation, artistry, and community—see you there!

The conversation will explore how the traditional fragrance-buying journey — once driven by in-store sampling and personal discovery — is being transformed by digital shopping experiences, social influence, and emerging technologies.
Key topics will include:

• The evolution of fragrance discovery: from in-store testers and beauty advisors to digital tools, AI-powered recommendations, and peer reviews.
• Shifting consumer behaviors among Gen Z and Gen Alpha: how younger generations, driven by social media and online communities, are shaping fragrance buying trends.
• Bridging the sensory gap online: innovative approaches to help customers experience scent virtually before purchasing.
• The hybrid experience: how physical retail and digital commerce can complement each other to create engaging fragrance journeys.

The art and science of perfumery are evolving—fast. As artificial intelligence and advanced data analytics penetrate the world of fragrance, a new generation of brands is leveraging cutting-edge technology to create scent profiles that are not only innovative, but hyper-personalized, sustainable, and scalable.

In this forward-looking panel, representatives from three pioneering brands (TBA) will share how AI is transforming formulation—from predictive ingredient modeling and sensory mapping to iterative prototyping based on consumer feedback loops. We’ll explore how machine learning is enhancing creativity rather than replacing it, empowering perfumers to push boundaries while maintaining olfactive integrity.

Join us for an immersive discussion on the digital future of scent, featuring exclusive insights, real-world applications, and a look at what happens when perfumery meets the power of algorithms.

What does it take to become a perfumer? In Scented Journeys: Diverse Paths to Perfumery, three accomplished perfumers from distinctly different training backgrounds share their unique professional journeys. This panel, moderated by Perfume Product and Brand Development Advisor/Artistic Perfumery Industry Writer for Essencional, Karen Marin, will delve into how their diverse beginnings influence their creative processes, their olfactive signatures, and their sources of inspiration. Join us for a candid and insightful conversation that celebrates the many roads that lead to a life in scent.

Join Mara Dumski (Chief Fragrance Experience Officer at Pura) and Carol Hamilton (Former Group President, Acquisitions at L'Oreal) as they explore the evolving landscape of fragrance, sharing insights on creativity, innovation, and the future of scent. A candid conversation that brings together two visionary voices shaping the art and business of fragrance.

Join us as we officially open the World Perfumery Congress 2026 with a warm welcome led by Roger Howell, President of the American Society of Perfumers. This opening session will set the tone for three days of innovation, inspiration, and collaboration in the global fragrance industry.

Roger will share the ASP’s vision for the future of perfumery, introduce new initiatives shaping the Congress, and highlight the themes and experiences that await attendees in Monterey. As the industry comes together in one of the most scenic locations in California, this welcome will mark the beginning of a truly memorable event.

As the fragrance landscape transforms in response to shifting consumer values, digital engagement, and sustainability demands, innovation has become essential—not just in formulation, but in storytelling, access, and brand experience.
In this dynamic panel, moderator Mark Knitowski leads a conversation with three leading fragrance brands (TBA) that are redefining how they connect with consumers. From reimagining product formats to pioneering new retail and digital strategies, these trailblazers are carving bold, unique pathways in a saturated market. Attendees will gain insight into how brands are staying agile, resonant, and forward-thinking in an era of constant change.

As the World Perfumery Congress 2026 comes to a close, join us for an unforgettable evening at one of the most iconic marine sanctuaries at the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Surrounded by the serene beauty of the ocean and its vibrant marine life, this exclusive closing reception and dinner is the perfect way to celebrate the connections, insights, and innovations we’ve shared over the past three days.

Immerse yourself in:

• Spectacular aquarium views that provide a breathtaking backdrop for our final gathering.
• Unforgettable networking with industry peers and global fragrance leaders in a relaxed, celebratory atmosphere.

This night is more than a farewell—it’s a toast to the artistry, passion, and future of perfumery. Let the magic of the Monterey Bay inspire you as we close WPC 2026 on a high note.

Dress Code: Cocktail or Elegant Evening Attire

Raise your glass as the ocean sets the stage—join us for an evening you’ll never forget.