Mary Kay in Paris: How Nigerian-Parisian Patricia Bourbotte is Promoting Diversity within The Beauty Industry

Before I heard of MAC, Bobbi Brown or Estée Lauder, I heard about Mary Kay. As a child, I would watch my auntie layer on Mary Kay products along with Iman Cosmetics. Recently, model and fashion influencer Shaun Ollison spoke to Patricia Bourbotte, a consultant for the powerhouse’s new Parisian location.

Greetings and bonjour my lovelies! It has been awhile since I have shared some fun and glamorous activities taking place here in Paris, France!  

Last season we concluded one of the most innovative fashion weeks we have seen in years. It showcased new designers and premiered many legendary models on the runway (the Versace Fall 2018 show was a through back moment!) Last year also saw the launch of Rihanna’s make up brand, Fenty Beauty, an unprecedented cosmetic debut providing 40 shades of foundations specifically marketed towards women of all colours! It’s surely an exciting time in fashion and beauty as we enter this era of real diversity.  

Most recently myself,  along with my team at Ellüre Ja’tie had the opportunity of hosting an afternoon of cosmetic and beauty exchanges amongst several industry experts. Some of our guests included Ms Patricia Bourbotte of Mary Kay Cosmetics, the lovely Adams Moungouka of ‘Adam’s MGK’, and the phenomenal hairstylist and ‘Master teacher’ Nicole Pembrook of Nicole Pembrook Salon, Paris. This was a ‘not to be missed’ event as it marked the official Mary Kay launch in France. Throughout the US, Mary Kay Cosmetics is a household name.  Client testimonies and company loyalty speak for itself. Established in 1963 by Mary Kay Ash, this multi-million dollar company has expanded globally now reaching Paris France.

Patricia is originally from Nigeria, living a great part of her early life in the U.K before marrying and moving to Paris. After spending years working in banking, she later decided to switch gears and follow her passion for makeup, beauty, and private sales. Patricia and I shared a lovely exchange regarding her introduction to Mary Kay and her experience within the brand. Here is some of what she shared: 

How were you introduced to Mary Kay? 

I have known the brand for a while but lost touch as there was no beauty consultant [in Paris]. I became re-acquainted with the brand through a former colleague of mine at a  time when I was looking for a cosmetic and skincare range that does what it says.

How do you promote your business?

I promote my business through free skin care [consultations], beauty parties and social media. 

What is your vision for Mary Kay? 

My vision for Mary Kay is to create more awareness around the brand, more beauty events, a minimum of fifty facials a month for our clients, as well as building and growing my team of independent beauty consultants.

Do you think Mary Kay is a suitable brand for women of colour? 

Absolutely, Mary Kay is the go-to for women of colour. We have a wide range of products adapted to women of colour, from varying foundation shades to colour cosmetics and skincare routine.

When and where will be your next Pampering party?

Next pampering party is the 2nd of December, at the Marriott Rive Gauche, Paris.

So December it is!! We look forward to catching up with Ms Patricia as her business and network expands and gains notoriety throughout Europe. I will also be bringing you more from our other beauty experts in the very near future. 

Find Patricia on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook.

Until next time, bizu and stay beautiful! 

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