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September 02.2025
3 Minutes Read

Discover How a Mother-Daughter Duo Turns Winemaking Into Aromatic Artistry

Mother-Daughter Fragrance Brand Dancing perfume bottles in denim overalls.

The Serendipity of Mother-Daughter Entrepreneurship

In the heart of New York City during the pandemic, Cynthia and Lauren Russell found themselves yearning for a connection to nature. This longing sparked an unexpected venture—purchasing a 12-acre vineyard in Sonoma, California. With Cynthia's esteemed background in organizational leadership from Columbia University and an MBA from Harvard, alongside Lauren's MBA from Columbia and experience at major firms like Uber Eats, their combined strengths led them to launch 'Dancing,' a wine label, in 2023.

Blending Winemaking and Fragrance: A Unique Venture

This year, the duo expanded their creative horizons by diving into the world of fragrances, releasing a unique collection that encapsulates their vineyard's essence. This initiative not only showcases their entrepreneurial spirit but also represents an emotional journey that intertwines the sensory experiences of winemaking with the art of fragrance creation. Each scent—Gnarly Vines, Scorched Wood, and Midnight Crush—has been designed with love, reflecting the memories and emotions associated with their vineyard.

Gnarly Vines: A Celebration of Springtime Scents

The fragrance 'Gnarly Vines' evokes the vibrancy of spring in a vineyard. With alluring notes of lemon, bergamot, coconut, and fig, it captures the essence of blossoming orange trees and lush greenery characteristic of the California climate. Lauren describes this scent as a classic favorite, loaded with the nostalgic aromas her mother has always found captivating.

Midnight Crush: The Allure of Wine-Cave Memories

'Midnight Crush' is the embodiment of intimacy and depth, drawing its inspiration from the unique ambience of a wine cave. With its sensual blend of white melon, plum, cassis, and cypress, it's reminiscent of the earthy, musty scents that waft through the cool interiors of oak barrels. Lauren reminisces about the profoundly immersive experiences of tasting wine alongside winemakers, translating that rich atmosphere into a scent crafted to evoke memory and emotion.

Scorched Wood: Embracing a Bold, Unisex Aroma

The most daring of the trio, 'Scorched Wood,' captures the essence of late-night harvest gatherings. Infused with notes of Brazilian orange, nutmeg, aged leather, and red cedar, it’s a fragrance that balances warmth and woody earthiness, bringing an unisex appeal. This scent mirrors a cozy cocktail experience, where the allure of spices mingles with the fresh aroma of oranges—a celebration of nature’s bounty during harvest.

Exploration and Connection: More than Just Products

Cynthia and Lauren's journey illustrates the beauty in shared experiences and the creation of products that speak to the heart. They have woven their personal narrative into each fragrance, encouraging consumers to appreciate the stories and experiences behind them. Ultimately, 'Dancing' represents more than just wine and perfumes; it symbolizes connection—to the land, to each other, and to the memories that shape our lives.

As conscious consumers, exploring brands like Dancing allows us to embrace products that tell a story, support family enterprises, and blend the art of winemaking with sensory experiences. The fragrances not only enhance our lives but also invite us to engage with nature in our daily rituals. Are you ready to experience this unique blend of aromas and story? Visit their website or Revolve to explore and bring home a piece of the vineyard today!

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12.24.2025

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