Pictures: Valley of Roses
The newest addition to Kilkenny's retail landscape has taken a substantial step forward in recent weeks, as works continue to fit out the new Valley of Roses store on Rose Inn Street, Kilkenny City.
Scheduled to open on June 27, the shop's owner Andriana has taken to social media to explain that 'the last few days have been intense behind the scenes'.
This week, lots of new features are being installed, and Andriana says that they are 'getting so close to the full reveal', which she notes is 'going to be impressive'.
"Our massive party room mirror is now in, surrounded by the most gorgeous flower arrangements – I can already picture the first hen party in there," she told followers.
"Our baby pink joinery shelves are starting to appear too – and I’m absolutely in love with every detail.
"Stay tuned for more sneak peeks – and thank you for cheering us on through this big move."
BACKSTORY
Andriana Tsankova gave up her tenure as a special needs teacher in Bulgaria to move 4,000 miles to Kilkenny to start her 'inspired by' perfume shop Valley of Roses.
Back in November, the local boutique and popular tourist stop celebrated its 10th anniversary.
With €2,000 to her name, Andriana opened the doors to Valley of Roses in 2014 in a modest Kieran's Street premises.
With 60 scents on the shelves, she worked day and night, juggling two and sometimes three jobs and 16-hour days to follow her dream.
"I was a special needs teacher in a nice school in Bulgaria. One afternoon, my head was turned by a beautiful scent from one of my colleagues. She introduced me to her fragrance kit, and from that moment, I was obsessed," Valley of Roses founder Andriana Tsankova explained.
"I began exploring fragrances, collecting around 300 different samples and spending all my free time delving into each scent—smelling, experimenting, mixing, and blending. Finally, I had that 'aha' moment!
"I told my husband, 'We're moving to Kilkenny to open a perfume shop.'"
Despite there being "no money in my back pocket, no accommodation and no jobs", within months, the self-taught 'Nez' (perfume blender) made the move with her family.
Having previously spent time in the city, Andriana said, "I was feeling the magic, the magical streets, the atmosphere, and the magical people was so special". Despite her friends saying she was "completely crazy," she took the leap of faith.
Today, 10 years later, the perfumery on Rose Inn Street boasts over 400 scents inspired by iconic big brands and employs a team of nine people.
A local success story, Valley of Roses has gained popularity for its aspirational perfumes and exceptional quality, winning awards and acclaim by building a loyal, 40,000-strong digital community and embracing trends.
However, when asked what the secret blend to her perfume success is, Andriana attributes it to her team.
"The girls on my team are a big part of my journey, truly like family to me. Over the years, they've stood by me, supporting the business and my dream. They absolutely deserve recognition for all they bring to Valley of Roses. There's a closeness and trust that goes beyond the typical employer-employee relationship. We talk about everything—holidays, family, sports. Realistically, we're one big family, and I'm incredibly grateful for Galina, Nicole, Abby, Naoimi, Emi, Violetta and the behind the scenes team too.” Andriana commented.
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