Beyond Beauty: Paola Mapelli

BEYOND BEAUTY

Stories worth sharing. Perspectives worth discovering. Rituals worth passing on.

Some people inspire us through what they do. Others through the way they think, the choices they make, or simply how they see the world.

Beyond Beauty is a new section on AdessoMag dedicated to conversations with people from all walks of life. A chance to discover what inspires them, what makes them unique, and the little rituals that are part of their everyday lives.

Paola Mapelli: The Art of Staying Curious and Always on the Move

As a co-founder of The Maptique, a creative company that combines travel, communication, and experiences, Paola has built an international career by turning her natural curiosity into a profession.

Someone who has made meeting people, building meaningful connections, and discovering new cultures an essential part of her life. Her open-minded outlook and effortless ability to move between different people and worlds reflect a vibrant, versatile personality, always ready to be surprised by something new.

We caught up with Paola to find out what keeps her inspired, which encounters have stayed with her, and the little rituals that make her feel good. 

THE INSPIRATION

One of the things that makes you special is how naturally you connect with people from all kinds of backgrounds and worlds. What fascinates you most about the people you meet? And what have all these connections taught you along the way?

I think curiosity is what makes the world go round, although I also believe in keeping some things to yourself, of course. But there’s something incredibly exciting, almost irresistible, about listening to others and discovering new perspectives or learning about something new. Everyone carries their own story, whether it’s visible or not. There’s always something to discover, personally, professionally, and especially culturally. People have always fascinated me, just as places have. And one of the most beautiful things is having different people by your side at different moments in your life, even when they live all over the world. I also love bringing little traditions and habits from other countries and cultures into my everyday life.

I think every person I've met has shaped who I am. They've taught me humility, kept me curious, made me more adaptable and, as you described me, full of life. People make you fall in love with life and constantly inspire you to try new things. Take meeting Enrica (adesso a co-founder), for example. What started as a connection has become a deep friendship, built on mutual admiration and always being there for each other. She's constantly keeping me up to date on London, the beauty world, DIY projects, motherhood... the list goes on and on!

THE RITUAL

Now that you're also a mom, I imagine those little moments just for yourself have become even more precious. Is there a small ritual or habit you always make time for to feel balanced and recharged?

Going for a bike ride, taking a walk while catching up on the phone with a friend who lives far away, treating myself to a Thai massage or a cupping session, or simply making time for breakfast or lunch with one of my favourite people. And something I never give up is quality time and discovery time with my business partner, Agnese. We always try to keep that sense of wonder alive and our eyes open to all the beauty and inspiration around us.

THE BEAUTY ESSENTIAL

We've known each other since adesso first started, and it's safe to say you've become one of our most loyal customers! What's your all-time favourite adesso product, and why?

The Multi-Protective Face Mask is truly one of a kind and absolutely unbeatable for me. I use it almost every day! First of all, I love its texture and scent. Then there’s the way it leaves my skin incredibly radiant and firm, without ever feeling heavy or sticky. It’s like an instant lifted glow, with a boost of hydration, and people actually notice the difference! And I have to mention the eye patches too. They’re amazing, especially when I’m on the go! :)