Denise Estrada
Denise Estrada has been blending fragrances for over 20 years. Her nose knows!!! A former esthetician and a “formulator” (manufacturer and consultant) for the personal care industry, she opened Mélange Apothecary in Sherman Oaks in July 2007. Mélange (to mix or blend, in French) Apothecary is a haven for fragrance lovers. Customers can create their own fragrances and have them blended into perfume or bath & body items of their choice. This store was the realization of everything on her wish list: the chance to bring people and fragrance together in a fun and relaxing environment, allowing people to bring out their most inner creative expression. Also, Denise wanted the experience to be accessible for most people by keeping prices reasonable ($18-42 for the custom-blended products).
Denise was born and raised in the Napa Valley. She currently lives with her husband Rick and their 10-year-old daughter in Los Angeles.
Your favorite place in LA to have a cocktail?
Roy’s
Your favorite LA place for bargain shopping?
Blush Boutique in Encino. Nothing over $100. Great clothes. I never leave there without several things. For home items, I love Home Goods.
You could change one thing about LA - what would it be?
Wider freeways or better public transportation.
You’ve always wanted to go to this LA spot – but just haven’t made it there yet?
Chaya Downtown
Your favorite LA extravagance?
Paradise Cove in Malibu. $25 is a lot to park but it is an amazing beach with a great restaurant. You can also enjoy a cocktail on the beach – legally.
Your favorite neighborhood haunt?
Cho-Cho San (revolving sushi) in Tarzana. They have very inventive items. We spend way too much time there.
Your favorite local getaway?
Laguna Beach. Treasure Island Beach is amazing.
Your favorite place for cheap eats?
Versailles
You always take out of town guests to this spot?
Griffith Observatory
You're most connected to this charity or your last volunteer experience?
I support The Second Harvest because not getting enough to eat here in our own communities is a reality for many people. Our family has also worked on a Giving Tree for many Holiday Seasons. – 40 families in need are “adopted” and provided with gifts, home essentials and gift cards to purchase holiday meals. This has been especially wonderful because it is very hands-on and we get to meet specific needs for each family.
