Fragrance house

Harlem Perfume Co

Founded by Teri Johnson, Harlem Perfume Co. is rooted in the cultural history and stories of the Harlem Renaissance. Its predecessor, Harlem Candle Co., began in 2014, when Johnson made candles in her Harlem kitchen and drew creative inspiration from Harlem Renaissance figures and artistic history. After customers asked to wear the candle fragrances, the perfume business launched in 2022, with Billie as its first liquid perfume. The brand’s fragrances use scent as a form of storytelling, honoring Black artists, cultural figures, artistry, and self-expression. In September 2024, Harlem Brands was introduced as an umbrella company encompassing Harlem Candle Co., Harlem Perfume Co., and Harlem Design Co. The Eartha Eau de Parfum was created by Johnson, perfumer Catherine Selig, and Kitt Shapiro, Eartha Kitt’s daughter. Speakeasy, offered as both a candle and an Eau de Parfum, is identified as Harlem’s bestseller.