I swear the fragrance game has turned into Uber. Not literally, obviously—but the whole vibe is the same: everyone’s jumping in, the market is flooded, pricing feels random, and hype basically sets the “rate” more than actual quality. Back then, it felt like there was a clearer ladder: designers → niche → the really expensive stuff. Now it’s like: - $40 clone that screams for 12 hours - $150 designer that lasts 4–6 - $300 niche that’s smoother but “quiet.” - $500+ luxury line that’s basically paying for branding + bottle + exclusivity And the crazy part is… the price difference isn’t always reflected in how “good” it smells to the average person, especially with how people judge fragrances now. Because honestly, a lot of people have started equating performance with quality. So you get this whole trend where people are convinced that cheaper clones are better than the originals. And I get why they think that: - Louder + longer = “better” (especially for newer hobbyists) - Clones often nail the opening, and that’s all many people really judge - If you’re not doing side-by-side testing, a clone can smell “identical” in the air - Paying $50 and getting “close enough” feels like a win… paying $300 for something subtle feels like you got scammed - Social media rewards hot takes like “THIS IS BETTER THAN THE ORIGINAL,” so it becomes a flex to say it But when you actually compare them properly, it’s usually the same story: Originals tend to be smoother, more balanced, better blended, and have a nicer drydown. Clones tend to be louder, simpler, and more linear, and sometimes have that harsh/chemical/musky “clone DNA” after an hour. The way I see it: Clones win in the first 30–60 minutes and on loud compliments. Originals win after hour 2 when you actually care about how it wears up close. And that’s why the market feels “Uber-ified” now. It’s less about artistry and more about volume, hype, and “surge pricing” driven by FOMO and influencers. Everyone’s just trying to get the biggest hit of scent for the cheapest ride.

Yesterday, our family said goodbye to my stepmother of 45 years. She has been part of my life for as long as I can remember—someone who loved deeply, gave freely, and showed up for others without ever asking for anything in return. The memories are many, and they are filled with warmth, laughter, good food, long conversations, and a quiet strength that held our family together through the years. Today, I’ll be taking my elderly father to make the funeral arrangements, and tomorrow we will lay her to rest. It’s a difficult road in such a short time, but we walk it with love, gratitude, and faith—grateful for the years we were given and the legacy she leaves behind in all of us. As I move through these moments, I chose to wear Amouage Reflection. A calm, dignified scent—soft, steady, and comforting. It feels fitting for remembrance, for honor, and for carrying her memory with quiet strength through the days ahead. Please keep our family in your thoughts and prayers Brothers.