Our Story
The Legacy of Étienne Fontaine: A Fragrance Story That Spans Generations
In 1827, nestled in the heart of Trois-Rivières, Quebec, a young man named Étienne Fontaine VI opened the doors to a small boutique that would go on to leave an indelible mark on his community. Étienne wasn’t just a shopkeeper; he was an artist, a dreamer, and a lover of fragrances. Inspired by the lush fields of lavender, the crisp Canadian air, and the aromatic herbs his mother used to dry in their family home, Étienne devoted his life to creating scents that evoked emotions and captured moments in time.
In his cozy shop, Étienne crafted bespoke perfumes for his customers, tailoring each fragrance to their unique personalities and stories. Locals would walk in not just to buy a bottle of perfume but to experience the magic of Étienne’s craft. He believed that every scent told a story and that everyone deserved a scent to call their own. Over the years, his small boutique became a cherished landmark in Trois-Rivières, a place where people could find beauty, comfort, and connection.
Étienne’s passion for fragrances was matched only by his love for his family. Though he passed on in 1875, his legacy endured. His children and grandchildren carried his dream forward, preserving his recipes, refining his techniques, and ensuring his story would never fade.
A Dream Rekindled for a Modern World
Fast forward nearly two centuries, Étienne’s great-great-grandchildren found themselves inspired by the tales of their ancestor and his passion for bringing beauty into the lives of others. They realized that while the world had changed, the desire for connection and self-expression through fragrance had not.
To honor Étienne’s legacy, the family launched Étienne Fontaine as an online boutique. The goal remains the same as Étienne’s dream: to craft meaningful experiences through the art of scent.
Luxury with a Heart
Today, Étienne Fontaine blends its storied history with modern innovation. We partner with world-renowned perfumers to offer a curated collection of premium fragrances, each chosen for its ability to evoke memories and spark joy. And just as Étienne believed luxury should be accessible, so do we.
From our headquarters in Toronto, every package we send carries the heart of Trois-Rivières — a reminder of Étienne’s dedication to his craft, his community, and the belief that fragrance is more than a product; it’s a love letter to life.
The Story Continues with You
When you choose Étienne Fontaine, you’re not just purchasing a fragrance; you’re becoming part of a legacy. You’re celebrating a love for beauty that began in a small Quebec boutique nearly 200 years ago. You’re carrying forward Étienne’s dream of making the world a little more beautiful, one scent at a time.
Step into our story. Let us help you discover your signature scent—one that will become part of your story, your memories, and your legacy. Just as Étienne envisioned, every spray is a connection, and every bottle tells a tale.
Étienne Fontaine VI, Trois-Rivières, 1828
Étienne Fontaine Parfumerie, Trois-Rivières, 1868
