The Cosmetic Chemist of New Orleans

:: MARI ALEJOS-PUENTE OF PASSPORT POLISH ::

AS SEEN IN THE OCTOBER 2020 ISSUE

By Jessica Burke, NOW Weddings Publisher

Mari Alejos-Puente, Owner of Passport Polish

Meet Mari Alejos-Puente, New Orleans local, scientist and travel enthusiast turned entrepreneur. In 2018, Mari launched her business Passport Polish combining her love of travel with her background in cosmetic chemistry. As a one-woman show, Mari serves CEO, R+D, and test subject for her growing business. Mari faithfully does her nails every Sunday and says she “can never have enough colors.”

Each polish in her collections is inspired by a unique characteristic of the specific destination it’s named for. From temperature sensitive, color changing Aruba to Cuba, inspired by Aruba’s pink avians and Cuba’s guava pastries, to China, inspired by Chinese Jade, you can travel the world in spirit (if not in person) with Passport Polish’s inspiring nail colors.

Mari says all her adventures begin at MSY, so of course she’s created an entire collection inspired by the Big Easy. Her New Orleans Collection includes Mari’s personal favorite color, a brilliant green called Hand Greenade; Bleu Dog, inspired by George Rodrigue’s famous paintings; Beignets and Cafe Au Lait, a warm coffee color, as well as four other vibrant colors.

But Passport Polish isn’t limited to just nail colors. In her online storefront, you’ll also find her Passport Pout Collections, matte lipsticks and lip glosses also inspired by different countries.

But what Mari is most excited about recently is her new Destination Wedding Collection which she describes as “Everything you’ll need for your globally inspired wedding!” Included in the collection are her new jewelry designs that include her Jet-Setter Airport necklace and earrings, the Mrs. Heart Necklace and of course a beautiful minty-blue green nail color, Engagement in St. Vincent.

So grab your passport and follow along with Mari’s adventures on Instagram @thepassportpolish