A visionary in the editorial world, Stellene Volandes was named Editor in Chief of Town and Country on March 8, 2016. Her previous work includes Style Director for Town and Country as well as the Style Director for Departures. Her long time focus on fashion and jewelry inspired her book, “Jeweler: Masters, Mavericks, and Visionaries of Modern Design,” published in 2016 by Rizzoli. 

We are proud to call Stellene a #FriendOfHighCamp and welcome her as our first High Camp Muse.

Our founder, Susan Hanson, discusses flowers, fashion and scent memories with Stellene.

What inspires you to bring flowers into your home?

Is there anything better than waking up in the morning or coming home at night to flowers on the coffee table or by your bed? They make everything seem beautiful and taken care of and like it’s all going to be all right. 

What is your first memory of gardenias?

My grandmother loved gardenias. We always brought her a gardenia on Mother’s Day. 

What was your experience the first time you received High Camp Gardenias as a gift?

Someone sent me a box of them in the office and I could not believe my eyes. A huge box of gardenias felt like the most glorious indulgence. It still does and I love it. It’s my go to gift! 

Sensory gifting is intended to imprint the recipient with a special memory and a lasting bond.  In your mind, what makes a great gift?

I love a gift that is the punchline to an inside joke or one that when the receiver opens it knows exactly why I bought it for them-a place we went to together, something we admired together, something they complimented me on at some point. 

Why do you send flowers and what do you hope they will communicate?

I want them to remind everyone how important beauty is in our lives. It’s necessary. 

Location you were most recently charmed by?

The newly RE-opened Paris Theater. Thank you Netflix. 

What is your most powerful memory involving flowers and scent?

I wear Promise by Frederic Malle which is dark and smoky and full of oud. I grew up in a church full of incense and think that must have something to do with why I love it so much! 

HIGH CAMP IS FEATURED IN THE DEC/JAN ISSUE OF TOWN AND COUNTRY ON THE ANNUAL "GIFTS AND GUIDANCE" LIST.