Dr. Nikki Brooks-Seevers, founder and CEO of Zen in a Jar (ZIJ), has transformed the art of fragrance blending into a powerful medium for self-expression and cultural celebration. I Love Us chatted with her to learn about the creative process behind her brand, the role of scent in self-care, and the deep connections to Black culture that are present in her products.
Crafting Fragrance with Intuition and Inspiration
When it comes to developing new fragrance combinations, Dr. Nikki’s process is anything but conventional. She describes her inspiration as a mix of dreams, cultural explorations, personal experiences, and customer suggestions.
“Combinations come to me in my dreams all the time,” she shares. “They will show up over and over until I create the blend and bring the idea to life. Sometimes, I’ll dream about lavender and grapefruit, even though I’m not a big citrus girl, but it will haunt me until it’s created and it’s right.”
Her travels also play a significant role in her creative process. “I visit countries and learn about their beauty rituals. I want to see the real spas and markets, how the women maintain their beauty. I then respectfully apply these recipes, test them, and acknowledge the culture I’m celebrating.”
Personal experiences and cultural influences further fuel her creativity. A song or an event can spark the need to design a fragrance that captures a particular feeling. For instance, a recent joyride with the song “Computer Love” led her to create a blend that resonated with the mood of the moment.
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The Power of Scent in Self-Care
Zen in a Jar has become synonymous with luxurious self-care rituals, and Dr. Nikki emphasizes the power of scent in enhancing well-being.
“What makes ZIJ different is that I focus on the power of body chemistry,” she explains. “There’s nothing like finding a blend that hits just right on you. Fragrance is transformative. It brings memories to mind and can make you feel truly special. The ritual of using a sugar scrub, enjoying the softness of your skin, and applying moisturizers while playing music and saying kind things to yourself is pure bliss.”
Celebrating Black Culture Through Scent
Dr. Nikki’s love for Black culture is evident in the names and inspirations behind her fragrances. Initially focused on zen themes, her brand evolved to incorporate references to Black culture, reflecting her personal journey and the richness of her heritage.
“My blackness and love for our culture is a huge part of who I am. I decided early on that I wasn’t chasing trends; I was going to be authentic. I think about songs, movies, vibes, struggles, and triumphs of our culture,” she says. This authenticity is evident in scents like “Sundress Vibes,” “Bamboo Earrings,” and “Family Reunion,” each evoking a sense of nostalgia and connection.
Her collections often pay homage to cultural icons and significant moments. The “INSECURE” collection, for example, is inspired by the feelings and vibes from the popular TV series. Scents like “The Crown” and “Intention” celebrate the nuanced storytelling and character arcs of the show.
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From Side Hustle to Full-Time Passion
What started as a side hustle to fund her doctoral tuition has blossomed into a full-time passion for Dr. Nikki. Zen in a Jar has given her the freedom to unleash her creativity and share it with the world.
“I was a little girl who grew up playing in her grandmothers’ vanities, enjoying their perfumes and powders. Presently, Zen in a Jar is my full-time passion. Challenges and all, I wouldn’t change a thing. I love the freedom it has afforded me and the ability to get all my creativity out of my system and share it with the world!”
Dr. Nikki’s story inspires us all to embrace our roots, follow our dreams, and find joy in the rituals that make us feel truly alive.
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