The Chainsmokers’ Journey to Creating Their Own Body-Care Line
Marianne Fonseca Partners with Drew Taggart on New Scented Body Care Launch
Marianne Fonseca is poised to reshape the body care landscape with the recent release from her brand, Gente Beauty. This launch features a collaborative effort with her husband, Drew Taggart of The Chainsmokers, and highlights a revamped formulation of the brand’s bestselling lymphatic drainage oil, now available in a new unisex scent, #2.
The scent, personally selected by Taggart, introduces a richer olfactory experience with notes of black orchid and ylang-ylang. This combination creates a smoky, spicy, and subtly seductive fragrance intended for universal wear. Rooted in Brazil’s rich biodiversity, the oil is vegan, clean, and cruelty-free, incorporating high-performance Amazonian botanicals that provide lightweight hydration without a greasy finish for both face and body.
In a recent conversation, the couple shared insights about their collaboration, their approach to self-care, and the unique dynamics of working alongside a partner.
Marianne explained, “Gente Beauty was founded three years ago to highlight Brazilian body care and culture. I wanted to bring innovative products that I couldn’t find in the U.S. Lymphatic drainage has always been a passion of mine, and I gradually connected with Brazilian professionals through my travels and modeling. They all expressed a similar frustration: high-quality lymphatic drainage products were elusive outside of Brazil. When I started Gente, I focused on this niche to create accessible products with legitimate ingredients that stimulate the lymphatic system.”
Taggart reflected on his experience, stating, “I have been using Gente products since I met Mari just over three years ago. I’ve always been interested in skincare but primarily for the face; integrating body-care products was new to me. I have become addicted to them, especially the original body oil Mari created, which makes me feel healthier and relaxed. The scent of #2 evolved from my favorite fragrances combined with the essence of a body oil—something that soaks into your skin rather than just sitting on top.”
Marianne added, “Last year, our oils achieved significant success. Our signature scent, Scent #1, is beloved within our community and is incorporated into our lymphatic drainage lotion and shower gel. I was eager to create a new fragrance to expand our offerings, but I wasn’t quite sure what that scent would be. With Drew’s input on his favorite notes, I collaborated with my lab to create a unique scent that excelled, especially in the oils. Drew has enjoyed using them since their launch.”
The couple’s dynamic extends beyond the business realm. Marianne stated, "Our passion for our individual pursuits has brought us closer from day one. We are invested in each other’s visions, so collaborating felt like a natural progression, especially now that we are married. I feel fortunate that Drew is supportive of my dreams and has become equally passionate about body care."
Discussing the fragrance further, she remarked, “We aimed to design a sensual and unisex scent that embodies the allure of Brazilian culture and the vibrancy of Latino heritage. The name, Gente, means ‘people,’ and I want both men and women to feel represented and connected with our products.”
Taggart connected his personal history to the new creation, saying, “I grew up in nature, surrounded by trees and the ocean in Maine, always drawn to the smell of a bonfire. This scent—soft yet spiced—evokes memories of drinking an Old Fashioned on a chilly winter night.”
Marianne concluded, “I constantly seek new experiences. Each summer, I choose a fresh perfume that reflects my evolving self, and now this desire for something new has led to innovation for the brand.”
As both creatives express their differing artistic tastes while complementing each other’s passions, they aim to bring Gente Beauty to new heights, enriching the body care industry with their shared vision.
