Natchez c1982

Natchez, launched in 1982, was a fragrance that emerged from the creative vision of the Margaret Hodge Company. Florasynth, a renowned fragrance and flavor ingredient manufacturer, played a pivotal role in bringing this concept to life. Natchez likely holds a special place in the olfactory memories of many who experienced its scent.

Natchez, the luxury fragrance, was symbolic of "a place when an affluent society built their grand mansions in the Deep South, surrounded by magnificent gardens." The advertisements invited "you to reflect upon the most romantic era in our heritage." The Gone With The Wind tradition "let's you live the legend and inherit the wind."

Natchez, the luxury fragrance, sought to capture the essence of a bygone era when wealth and grandeur flourished in the Deep South, with opulent mansions nestled amidst stunning gardens. Its marketing campaign evoked the romanticism of this period, inviting consumers to immerse themselves in the nostalgia of a glamorous past. Drawing parallels to the iconic tale of "Gone With The Wind," the advertisements promised an opportunity to experience the legend firsthand and embrace the timeless allure of the Southern heritage.

The Natchez fragrance comes from the inspiration of the gardens and lifestyle of Natchez." Natchez "combines the essence of flowers found in the Natchez gardens," said the creator of the perfume, Margaret Hodge. Hodge was head of M. Hodge Co., a marketing, advertising and public relations firm from New York City. She explained that "We were trying to create the Southern ambiance of the garden florals that would permeate the air if you were sitting on the veranda."

Margaret Hodge, the mastermind behind Natchez, drew inspiration from the lush gardens and refined lifestyle of Natchez, a city renowned for its Southern charm. As the head of M. Hodge Co., a distinguished marketing, advertising, and public relations firm based in New York City, Hodge aimed to encapsulate the essence of these gardens in a fragrance that would transport wearers to the tranquil ambiance of a Southern veranda. By blending the fragrant blooms found in Natchez's gardens, Natchez perfume sought to evoke the romanticism and allure of this idyllic setting.

Natchez, the name of a city on the Mississippi River was renowned for its grand antebellum homes, heritage gardens and elegant charm of the Old South. Natchez was founded in 1716 and is the oldest city on the Mississippi, with five nations - France, Great Britain, Spain, the Confederate States and the US - contributing to the city's rich legacy. Since March 1932, descendants of the pioneer families of Natchez have opened their homes and gardens filled with azaleas and camellias during the Annual Natchez Pilgrimage. 

Natchez, a city nestled along the banks of the majestic Mississippi River, holds a storied history steeped in the grandeur of the Old South. Established in 1716, Natchez boasts the distinction of being the oldest city along the Mississippi River. Its heritage is a tapestry woven from the influences of five nations—France, Great Britain, Spain, the Confederate States, and the United States—each contributing to the city's rich cultural legacy.

Renowned for its stately antebellum homes, meticulously maintained heritage gardens, and the timeless elegance of the Old South, Natchez captivates visitors with its timeless charm. Since March 1932, the city has welcomed guests to partake in the Annual Natchez Pilgrimage, a cherished tradition where descendants of pioneer families open their homes and gardens adorned with vibrant azaleas and camellias, offering a glimpse into the city's illustrious past and vibrant present.

During the half century before the Civil War, the region enjoyed a "Golden Age." Crops such as cotton, sugar cane, tobacco and indigo were staples which were in demand all over the world. These crops grew well on the rich soils of Louisiana and Mississippi. Of the seventeen men in the US who qualified as millionaires at that time, twelve lived in the St Francisville Louisiana-Natchez-Mississippi area. Those whose fortunes blossomed built magnificent houses and gardens, with each planter enthusiastically vying to build the biggest and finest. The verdant gardens boasted magnolias, camellias, azaleas, jasmines, roses, dogwood, honeysuckle, redbud and other native and imported flowers. These grand estates, many of them facing the mighty Mississippi and its ubiquitous riverboat traffic, were lined up one after the other stretching from New Orleans to Memphis. 

The antebellum period preceding the Civil War indeed marked a "Golden Age" for the region, particularly in areas like St. Francisville, Louisiana, and Natchez, Mississippi. The fertile soils of Louisiana and Mississippi facilitated the cultivation of lucrative crops such as cotton, sugar cane, tobacco, and indigo, which were in high demand worldwide. This economic prosperity led to the accumulation of vast wealth, with twelve of the seventeen millionaires in the United States residing in the St. Francisville-Natchez area during that era.

Flush with wealth, these plantation owners competed fervently to erect the most splendid homes and gardens, resulting in a landscape adorned with magnificent estates boasting lush gardens. These gardens showcased a rich variety of flora, including magnolias, camellias, azaleas, jasmines, roses, dogwood, honeysuckle, redbud, and other native and imported flowers. Situated along the banks of the mighty Mississippi River, these grand estates formed a picturesque tableau, often frequented by the bustling riverboat traffic that traversed the river from New Orleans to Memphis.

Victorian Inspiration:

Hodge said that the Natchez fragrance was designed for the romantic, yet thoroughly modern woman. Hodge described her fragrance as "evoking an image of 'Gone With The Wind' for the woman of today. I wanted to create a fragrance for the woman of the '80s." It was specifically designed to satisfy a modern market wistfully looking back at the romance of yesteryear. This is apparent in other fragrances of the period, such as Truly Lace & L'Effleurt, both by Coty, which evoked the charm of the Victorian era. There was a particular fascination for the elegance associated with the Victorians and Edwardians. The period conjures up images of Southern belles clad in frilly lace dresses shaded by parasols strolling the manicured lawns, others sipping iced tea or mint juleps while fanning themselves languorously on wicker chaises perched on verandas overlooking fragrant gardens.

Margaret Hodge's vision for the Natchez fragrance epitomized the essence of a romanticized past while catering to the sensibilities of the modern woman of the 1980s. By drawing inspiration from the iconic imagery of "Gone With The Wind," Hodge aimed to craft a fragrance that would resonate with contemporary consumers yearning for the nostalgia of bygone eras.

During the 1980s, there was indeed a trend in fragrance design that celebrated the elegance and charm of past epochs, notably the Victorian and Edwardian eras. Perfumes such as Truly Lace and L'Effleurt by Coty, reminiscent of Victorian allure, exemplify this trend. The fascination with the sophistication and refinement of these historical periods captured the imagination of consumers, evoking images of Southern belles adorned in lace dresses, sheltered by parasols as they meandered through manicured gardens or relaxed on verandas with iced tea or mint juleps in hand.

In this context, Natchez emerged as a fragrance that not only paid homage to the romance of the past but also catered to the desires and aspirations of the modern woman, offering a sensory journey through time that resonated with the zeitgeist of the 1980s.

Elizabeth Arden in 1981, released the "Southern Heirlooms" line of porcelains which held her Blue Grass and Memoire Cherie fragrance products, "inspired by the historic antebellum homes of Natchez, Mississippi. Translating the opulence and splendor of another era into precious heirlooms-to-be."  " 

Hodge touched on this and said, "We're coming back to that beauty and romance. In the 80s we're coming back to the traditional and a revival of our American heritage. More and more you find young couples from the 60s and 70s that were living together now wanting traditional weddings. Married people today want a piece of antiquity in their homes."

Looking through vintage issues of Victoria magazine as well as others, such as the Lady's Gallery, one can certainly see the appeal for the era in clothing, home furnishings and accessories, especially wedding gowns. Hodge said, "Today's woman is very feminine with softened clothes - everything is softer, more feminine. Today they can't keep enough romantic novel paperbacks in the bookstores. She is a very romantic woman who wants a career, husband and family."

The release of Elizabeth Arden's "Southern Heirlooms" line in 1981, featuring porcelains holding fragrances inspired by the historic antebellum homes of Natchez, Mississippi, reflects a broader trend in the 1980s towards a revival of traditional values and aesthetics. Margaret Hodge's commentary on this trend underscores the cultural shift towards embracing the beauty and romance of bygone eras, particularly evident in fashion, home decor, and lifestyle choices.

Indeed, the allure of the antebellum South and its associations with elegance and refinement captivated the imagination of consumers during this period. The popularity of vintage-inspired wedding gowns, home furnishings, and accessories, as evidenced in publications like Victoria magazine and the Lady's Gallery, attests to a collective yearning for the romance and nostalgia of previous generations.

Hodge's observation that today's woman seeks a balance between femininity, career, and family resonates with the cultural climate of the 1980s. The desire for softer, more feminine clothing and the resurgence of interest in romantic literature reflect a longing for a sense of connection to tradition and heritage, even amidst the rapidly changing social landscape.

In essence, the fascination with the antebellum era and the revival of traditional values observed during the 1980s manifested not only in fragrance and fashion but also in broader cultural expressions, reflecting a collective yearning for beauty, romance, and a connection to the past.

The entire development of the fragrance from the initial concept to the scent itself took a three years to be completed. Hodge explained that choosing the right name for the perfume was challenging, so the names were test marketed. "Charleston [South Carolina] was turned down because people associated it with the dance. Savannah was considered but rejected because people gave the actual definition - foot of the forest - to it." 

The meticulous development of the Natchez fragrance, spanning three years from its initial conception to the final scent, underscores the attention to detail and dedication involved in crafting a product that resonates with consumers. Margaret Hodge's insight into the naming process highlights the importance of selecting a name that not only evokes the desired imagery but also aligns with consumer perceptions and associations.

The challenges encountered in naming the fragrance, such as the rejection of "Charleston" due to its dance association and the dismissal of "Savannah" based on its literal meaning, illustrate the complexities involved in finding the perfect moniker. Test marketing various names allowed for valuable feedback from consumers, ensuring that the chosen name would effectively convey the essence of the fragrance and resonate with the target audience.

Natchez:

Ultimately, the selection of "Natchez" as the name for the fragrance encapsulates the romanticism and allure of the Southern heritage that inspired its creation. By weaving together elements of history, tradition, and natural beauty, Natchez emerges as a fitting tribute to the rich cultural legacy of its namesake city and the timeless elegance of the Old South.

For her inspiration, Hodge said that "I kept coming back to Natchez as the theme of a romantic place. Natchez has such a marvelous history. There is a 'Gone With The Wind' quality to it. The name was natural." Hodge herself claimed a Southern heritage, being born in South Carolina. "Being a Southerner, I was looking for a romantic period in our history and kept coming back to the South. We kept coming back to the gardens." 

Margaret Hodge's personal connection to the South, coupled with her quest for a romantic period in history, led her to draw inspiration from the rich heritage and lush landscapes of the region. As a native of South Carolina, Hodge's Southern roots undoubtedly influenced her creative process and fueled her desire to evoke the romance and charm of bygone eras.

The allure of Natchez, with its storied history and cinematic qualities reminiscent of "Gone With The Wind," resonated deeply with Hodge's vision for the fragrance. The city's magnificent gardens, steeped in tradition and natural beauty, provided a fitting backdrop for the olfactory journey she sought to create.

By infusing the essence of Natchez into the fragrance, Hodge succeeded in capturing the essence of a romanticized Southern landscape, weaving together elements of history, culture, and natural splendor. In doing so, she crafted a scent that not only pays homage to the past but also celebrates the enduring legacy of the South and its timeless allure.

She said that "Natchez is a place in America that relates to the romance of yesteryear for today's woman. As a student at Parsons in the mid 50s, I visited the city on the recommendation of one of my teachers. Natchez was considered one of the landmarks in America to visit. [But], my reaction wasn't too good." She said that at the time, it was a "city in shabby shape." But within 30 years the city had changed, and for the better. Residents started restoring the old mansions and parks. The city was cleaned up and more inviting to tourists. It made an impression on her. "Wealthy plantation owners there filled their homes with Aubusson rugs, Limoges porcelain, George III silver and hand carved four-poster beds. Thirty homes in Natchez have been preserved in the National Register of Historic Places," said Hodge.

Hodge said, "I want people to know what Natchez is all about. I've spent junkets there. The sweetest people live there." She said that Natchez was symbolic of "a place when an affluent society built their grand mansions in the Deep South, surrounded by magnificent gardens. We were trying to create the Southern ambience of the garden florals that would permeate the air if you were sitting on the veranda," said Hodge.  

Margaret Hodge's journey from her initial impression of Natchez to her eventual inspiration for the fragrance underscores the transformative power of time and preservation. Her firsthand experience as a student at Parsons in the 1950s, where Natchez was recommended as a landmark to visit, left her with a less-than-favorable impression of a city in decline. However, over the following three decades, Natchez underwent a remarkable revitalization, as residents rallied to restore its historic mansions and parks, transforming it into a beacon of Southern charm and elegance.

The restoration efforts not only rejuvenated the city's physical landscape but also revitalized its spirit, making it a more inviting destination for tourists and preserving its cultural heritage for future generations. Hodge's exposure to the opulent interiors and grandeur of Natchez's historic homes left a lasting impression, inspiring her to capture the essence of the city's romantic past in her fragrance.

The Scent:

By infusing Natchez's ambiance and garden florals into the scent, Hodge sought to evoke the timeless allure of a bygone era when affluent plantation owners adorned their homes with exquisite furnishings and surrounded themselves with the beauty of meticulously manicured gardens. Through her fragrance, Hodge aimed to share the essence of Natchez with the world, celebrating its rich history and the warmth of its people.

Hodge set out to capture the essence of the Natchez allure and approached Florasynth, a perfumery house in New York. Hodge commissioned Florasynth to create the Natchez fragrance that would evoke the "romantic ambiance of the Old South" in the tradition of Gone With The Wind. Hodge explained that "we wanted to create a fragrance which would capture the scent of heritage gardens."

In response, Florasynth created four fragrances which were test marketed for final selection. The test marketing was done in big cities where there was a wide range of women from all walks of life to evaluate the scent: New York, Houston and Los Angeles. After 1.5 years of test marketing, the final fragrance was chosen to become Natchez. 

Margaret Hodge's collaboration with Florasynth underscores her commitment to capturing the essence of Natchez's allure in fragrance form. By enlisting the expertise of a renowned perfumery house, Hodge aimed to translate the romantic ambiance of the Old South, reminiscent of "Gone With The Wind," into a scent that would evoke the nostalgia of heritage gardens.

Florasynth's creation of four distinct fragrances allowed for a comprehensive test marketing process, ensuring that the final selection resonated with a diverse range of women across different urban landscapes. The strategic choice of test markets in major cities like New York, Houston, and Los Angeles provided ample opportunity to gather feedback from women of varying backgrounds and preferences.

After 1.5 years of rigorous testing and evaluation, the definitive fragrance for Natchez was chosen, embodying the essence of Southern charm and heritage gardens that Hodge envisioned. This collaborative effort between Hodge and Florasynth culminated in the creation of a fragrance that not only encapsulated the romance of yesteryear but also resonated with the modern woman's sensibilities, making Natchez a timeless olfactory experience.

"Developing a fragrance is like a composer writing a composition - it has to have harmony, symphony, a highly specialized concept. I sat down [with Florasynth researchers] and told them what [flowers] we had in the South," said Hodge. "Natchez is an all-floral essence that was researched thoroughly. Research was done on who brought the magnolia and camellia to Mississippi. Rare jasmine was brought by French explorers, magnolia by the Spanish. We had to develop four fragrances in order to create the Natchez image."  

"Natchez was chosen after 1 1/2 years of test marketing. We also wanted to do what everyone had never thought of," said Hodge. Hodge was very specific in her requests for the fragrance. She said "Most perfumes are colored, mine is not. We love the colors of nature - no fake dyes. We used the actual color of the essence. It embodies the most delicate of camellia, but it is as alluring as potent jasmine, blended with moonlight and magnolias."

Margaret Hodge's meticulous approach to developing the Natchez fragrance mirrors that of a composer crafting a symphony, with attention to harmony and a highly specialized concept. Collaborating closely with Florasynth researchers, she drew upon the rich floral heritage of the South to inform the fragrance's composition.

Thorough research into the origins of key botanicals such as magnolia, camellia, and jasmine ensured an authentic representation of the Southern landscape. By delving into the historical narratives of how these flowers found their way to Mississippi—magnolia introduced by the Spanish, jasmine by French explorers—Hodge and the Florasynth team were able to infuse Natchez with a sense of botanical history and cultural significance.

The decision to develop four fragrances before selecting the final Natchez scent speaks to the dedication to crafting a truly distinctive olfactory experience. After an extensive 1.5 years of test marketing, Natchez emerged as the embodiment of Southern charm and floral allure.

Hodge's insistence on using the natural color of the essence, eschewing artificial dyes, reflects her commitment to authenticity and reverence for the beauty of nature. The resulting fragrance captures the delicate essence of camellia, the allure of jasmine, and the enchantment of moonlit magnolias, inviting wearers to immerse themselves in the timeless elegance of the Old South.

Launch:

The perfume itself, cost $120 per ounce due to the rare jasmine used in the fragrance, which wasn't affordable to just anyone, Hodge revealed. "People want the best they can buy. Men and women will buy the best perfumes they can while the younger women may buy the eau de toilette." She then explained that the Natchez eau de toilette has a stronger essence than other such fragrances so that if one bought a bottle of it in France, it would be called an eau de parfum.

The fragrance was was introduced by Bloomingdale's in Autumn 1982, and McRae's during Christmastime of that year, proved to have universal appeal. The fragrance had successful launches in New York City, Dallas, New Orleans, San Francisco and its namesake, Natchez. Hodge explained that fragrance sales, like those at Natchez at Christmas, indicated the perfume's popularity. Eleven percent of the holiday fragrance sales at the Natchez McRae's store was for the Natchez perfume.  

Margaret Hodge's strategic approach to pricing and marketing Natchez reflects a keen understanding of consumer preferences and the dynamics of the fragrance market. By leveraging the allure of rare jasmine and positioning Natchez as a premium product, she tapped into the desire of consumers to invest in luxury and quality.

The availability of Natchez in both eau de toilette and eau de parfum formulations catered to a diverse range of consumers, from those seeking a stronger, longer-lasting scent to younger women who may prefer a lighter option.

The fragrance's successful introduction at Bloomingdale's and McRae's, coupled with its universal appeal across major cities such as New York City, Dallas, New Orleans, San Francisco, and its namesake Natchez, underscores its broad market acceptance. The popularity of Natchez, as evidenced by its significant holiday sales at McRae's Natchez store, speaks to its widespread appeal and the enduring allure of its evocative scent.

Hodge's meticulous attention to detail in pricing, formulation, and marketing contributed to Natchez's success as a sought-after fragrance that captured the essence of Southern charm and elegance.

Hodge said, "We presented it in stores in mid-America and the customers there all knew of Natchez. Then there were people in the South who understood what the who idea means. It was a little frightening to present it to Natchez because it's real chancy to go to the source. But I knew the people in Natchez were sophisticated enough to buy it because it was good and not because it was named for the city."

Tony Byrne, mayor of Natchez, who had a population of only 22,015 at the time, said "I guess somebody thought the Natchez meant elegance and that's what we try to project. We are sophisticated for a city of our size." The Natchez fragrance marketing helped boost tourism to the area. Carolyn Denton, director of the Natchez Convention and Tourism Commission said that, "We've gotten a good piece of publicity from it."

Margaret Hodge's cautious approach to presenting Natchez in its namesake city reflects a sensitivity to local perceptions and a commitment to ensuring the fragrance's success based on its merits rather than its association with the city. Despite initial apprehensions, Hodge's confidence in the sophistication of Natchez residents proved well-founded, as they embraced the fragrance for its quality and allure.

Mayor Tony Byrne's recognition of Natchez as a symbol of elegance aligns with the city's efforts to project a refined image, despite its modest population size. The association with the Natchez fragrance likely bolstered this perception, contributing to the city's reputation as a destination of sophistication and charm.

The marketing of Natchez fragrance not only served as a testament to the city's allure but also helped to boost tourism by drawing attention to its rich cultural heritage and timeless elegance. Carolyn Denton's acknowledgment of the positive publicity generated by the fragrance underscores its role in promoting Natchez as a destination worth visiting and experiencing firsthand.

The collaboration between Hodge, Florasynth, and the city of Natchez exemplifies the symbiotic relationship between fragrance, branding, and tourism promotion, demonstrating how a well-executed marketing strategy can enhance the perception and appeal of a destination.

Success:

Hodge said that sales were "Fantastic. Let me put it this way, when we first introduced the fragrance in Natchez at Christmas, large stores reported it was one-tenth of all its fragrance sales. they couldn't keep it in stock."  She felt that part of the perfume's popularity was because it bore no designer name. "We knew we had a beautiful fragrance and the mid-American market is telling us so."

A perfume salesclerk from McRae's said, that sales were so brisk and aggressive, that "We couldn't keep it [in stock]. We had it back ordered and back ordered and we couldn't fill the orders."

The overwhelming success of the Natchez fragrance, particularly during its introduction in the city of Natchez itself, underscores its broad market appeal and the effectiveness of Margaret Hodge's strategic approach to branding and marketing. The absence of a designer name likely contributed to the fragrance's popularity, as consumers were drawn to its quality and allure rather than a recognizable label.

The enthusiastic response from both retailers and consumers, as evidenced by brisk sales and backorders, highlights the strong demand for Natchez and its rapid acceptance into the fragrance market. The fragrance's ability to capture the essence of Southern charm and elegance resonated with consumers across diverse demographics, reflecting its universal appeal.

The success of Natchez in Natchez and beyond serves as a testament to its quality, craftsmanship, and the enduring appeal of its evocative scent, solidifying its place as a beloved fragrance cherished by many.

Prices for the parfum ranged from $45 for the 0.25 oz $75 for the 0.5 oz and $120 for the 1 oz. The Eau de Toilettes, more attainable to the general public, ranged in price from $22.50 to $35. In addition to the parfum and toilet water, the line included bath and body care basics and dusting powder.

Hodge said that "We've found that the young who couldn't afford the [$120 an ounce] perfume bought the eau de toilette, $22.50 an ounce. Then there are the ear-omatics, a new, innovative concept that's fun, provocative and flirtatious. the young love it."

The interesting "Ear-omatics," were earbobs that released a burst of fragrance, by twisting a little dial on the earrings. These earrings contain discs saturated with the Natchez fragrance. The "ear-omatics" were made up of 14kt gold tone finish with clip backs or solid 14kt gold posts, they were available in either spiral shape, faux pearls or a Melon shape. These retailed for $40 and $42. Hodge said she created and patented the "Ear-omatics" herself and that with the switch of a tiny dial on the earrings, fragrance was released "to have a pulse of essence."

The creation and patenting of "Ear-omatics" represented a bold and innovative approach to fragrance application, offering consumers a playful and flirtatious way to enjoy the Natchez scent. Hodge's entrepreneurial spirit and creativity were evident in her ability to conceive and develop such unique products, which added depth and excitement to the Natchez brand.

Natchez & Beyond:

Hodge had set her mind to creating a company that would eventually evolve from the Natchez fragrance line. "I can develop for 10 years from Natchez. And I haven't touched the home furnishings market. It's going to be a makeup and cosmetics house using Natchez as a backdrop. We'll move into the bath with innovative things and build a room with curtains and accessories featuring prints of magnolias one year or camellias the next. We're also working on a men's fragrance. The essences are being developed after the Natchez man - the person who is a masculine, elegant gentleman who also has a little bit of the rogue in him and called - Natchez Homme."

Margaret Hodge's vision for her company extended far beyond the Natchez fragrance line, encompassing a diverse range of products and ventures that would leverage the brand's appeal and expand into new markets. The introduction of various product offerings, including eau de toilettes, bath and body care basics, dusting powder, and the innovative "Ear-omatics," catered to different consumer preferences and budgets, ensuring broad accessibility.

Looking ahead, Hodge envisioned her company expanding into new territories, including home furnishings, makeup, cosmetics, and men's fragrances. By leveraging the iconic imagery and allure of Natchez as a backdrop, she planned to create a cohesive brand identity that resonated with consumers across different product categories.

The development of "Natchez Homme," a men's fragrance inspired by the essence of the Natchez man—a masculine, elegant gentleman with a hint of roguish charm—underscored Hodge's commitment to innovation and diversification. By tapping into the distinctive qualities associated with Natchez, she aimed to carve out a unique niche in the competitive fragrance market and build a lasting legacy for her company.

Fragrance Composition:

So what does it smell like? It is classified as a floral fragrance for women. It was described as a blend of sumptuous natural florals made up of Spanish magnolia, rare jasmine, camellia, fiery azalea, lily of the valley and a profusion of 10 other floral essences, born out of the South.

• Top notes: Spanish magnolia, bergamot
• Middle notes: jasmine, camelia, azalea, lily of the valley, rose
• Base notes: patchouli, oakmoss, musk, sandalwood

The Natchez fragrance is a captivating floral scent that evokes the beauty and charm of the Southern landscape. Its sumptuous blend of natural florals creates a sensorial journey through the gardens of the Old South.

At the top, Spanish magnolia and bergamot greet the senses with their fresh and vibrant notes, reminiscent of a sunny Southern morning. These uplifting top notes pave the way for the heart of the fragrance, where rare jasmine, camellia, fiery azalea, lily of the valley, and rose come together in a harmonious bouquet. Each floral essence adds its own distinctive character, from the intoxicating sweetness of jasmine to the delicate elegance of camellia and the vibrant warmth of azalea.

As the fragrance settles, base notes of patchouli, oakmoss, musk, and sandalwood anchor the composition, adding depth and sophistication. These earthy and woody accords provide a rich and lasting foundation, reminiscent of the timeless allure of the Southern landscape.

Overall, Natchez is a fragrance that captures the essence of Southern romance and elegance, blending sumptuous florals with warm and inviting base notes to create a scent that is both captivating and enduring.

Bottles:

The Natchez fragrance line offers a range of options to suit different preferences and needs:

Parfum:

• 0.25 oz
• 0.5 oz
• 1 oz

Eau de Toilette:

• 2 oz Splash
• 3.3 oz Splash
• 2 oz Spray
• 3.3 oz Spray

These variations in size and application method allow consumers to choose the format that best fits their lifestyle and usage preferences, whether they prefer the intensity of the parfum or the lighter, more refreshing feel of the eau de toilette.

The opulence of the antebellum period was expressed in the packaging for Natchez. "It comes in faceted flacons of French crystal, simple and classic with a square top wrapped with gold cord. The front seal is printed in gold on the bottle in style of a portico of a Greek Revival, inspired by the antebellum homes of Natchez," said Margaret Hodge. "The boxes are wrapped in black moire [a watery, textured French silk], because when I look at Spanish moss hanging in old oak trees, it looks like moire," Hodge said.

The attention to detail in the packaging of Natchez reflects Margaret Hodge's commitment to capturing the opulence and elegance of the antebellum period. The faceted flacons of French crystal, adorned with a square top wrapped in gold cord, exude a sense of luxury and sophistication. The front seal, printed in gold in the style of a portico of a Greek Revival, pays homage to the grandeur of the antebellum homes of Natchez, evoking a sense of nostalgia and timeless beauty.

The choice of black moire for the packaging boxes further enhances the sense of luxury and refinement. Inspired by the sight of Spanish moss hanging in old oak trees, the texture of moire silk adds depth and richness to the packaging, inviting consumers to experience the romance and allure of the Old South.

A sweepstakes was offered to customers from April 18th to May 1st. No purchase was necessary.  Grand prize winners would receive a free trip to historic Natzchez, Mississippi. The winners would fly first class via Delta Airlines to stay at the luxurious Eola Hotel, circa 1920s for a three day, two night stay. Then get the chance to visit 6 antebellum mansions, all part of the National Registry of Historic Places. Including a lavish Southern breakfast at the Natchez mayor's home. And those were just the highlights.

The sweepstakes offered to customers underscores the brand's commitment to immersing consumers in the experience of Natchez. The grand prize, a free trip to historic Natchez, Mississippi, offers winners the opportunity to indulge in the rich history and cultural heritage of the city. From first-class airfare to luxurious accommodations at the Eola Hotel, circa 1920s, to guided tours of antebellum mansions and lavish Southern breakfasts, the sweepstakes promises an unforgettable journey through time and tradition.

Overall, the packaging and sweepstakes for Natchez reflect a holistic approach to branding and marketing, aimed at immersing consumers in the essence of the fragrance and the allure of its inspiration. By combining elements of luxury, history, and adventure, Natchez invites consumers to embark on a sensory journey through the romance and elegance of the Old South.

Fate of the Fragrance:

Unfortunately, sales of Natchez didn't extend into the late 1980s, and was discontinued most likely by 1985ish as I cannot find any other advertisements after 1984.

It's unfortunate that sales of Natchez didn't extend into the late 1980s and that it was discontinued, likely around 1985. The fragrance industry can be quite competitive, and consumer preferences can shift over time, leading to changes in product offerings.

I wanted to mention that there was a brand that wanted to bring back memories of the antebellum years, Old South Toiletries. 

While Natchez may no longer be available, the memories and experiences associated with its fragrance will likely live on for those who had the opportunity to experience it. And brands like Old South Toiletries continue to offer consumers the chance to indulge in nostalgia and evoke the spirit of bygone eras through their products.

It's interesting to learn about Old South Toiletries and their endeavor to evoke memories of the antebellum years. Fragrances and toiletries often have a nostalgic quality, evoking memories and emotions associated with specific times and places. Old South Toiletries sought to capture the essence of the Old South in their products, appealing to consumers who were drawn to the romance and elegance of that era.

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