Celebrating 10 years as a brand and the launch of a boutique store within Harrods, 2024 has been a year of triumph for Maral Artinian.
As the founder and creative director of MARLI New York, Maral grew up in the world of jewellery. Born in Syria, raised in Armenia and settling in New York, her brand is a reflection of the Big Apple’s daring spirit, yet stays true to the legacy of her family’s three generations of craftsmanship.
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A true traveller splitting her time between the US, the Middle East and Europe, we delve into her adventures, including her most memorable trips, the hotel chains top of her booking list and the MARLI pieces she doesn’t travel without.
What is the first trip you remember taking?
One of the trips I took with my family and a group of our friends to St. Petersburg; we visited the palace of Napoleon Bonaparte. It was breathtaking – and it just so happened that we were visiting during the white nights.
What’s been your most memorable trip and why?
A trip to Hawaii. It was short, but we rented a motorcycle and did an island tour for two days. The beaches in Hawaii are paradise.
Where or what is your escape?
Anywhere in the Mediterranean – the Greek islands, the south of France or the Italian coast.
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If you could go anywhere tomorrow, it would be:
Tulum, for a calming getaway.
How would you spend your ideal afternoon in your home city?
I would spend time at home painting, with some light music on in the background and with my dog at my side.
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If you could sit next to anyone on a flight – dead or alive – who would it be?
My father. He passed away while I was building MARLI and I would like to tell him that my siblings and I are carrying the values he taught us throughout our work.
How do you recover from jet lag?
I usually sleep on the plane, taking time to unwind. Once I arrive at my destination, depending on the time, I carry on with my day and try to adjust to the new time zone right away. A massage and the gym help recovery as well.
What’s your in-flight beauty routine?
I use a hydrating cream before I get on the flight, plus lip balm. And no make-up.
Favourite hotel?
Mandarin Oriental or Four Seasons for their great hospitality and locations.
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Favourite airline?
Emirates when I’m travelling to the Middle East – you can’t beat the A380 and the service. Delta when I’m flying to Europe – it has great service, is convenient and travels to the best destinations.
Where to next?
I’m looking forward to my trip to Costa Rica.
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What are your must-have travel picks?
Creations from MARLI’s Cleo and LIFE collections are essential. My watches. Dior perfume. Sneakers and gym clothes.
FIRST THING THAT COMES TO MIND…
Hand-luggage essential?
Hand cream and lip balm.
Packing: roll or fold?
Fold.
Inflight book or inflight film?
Film.
Music or podcasts?
Podcast.
Time killer on a long-haul flight?
Sleep and a documentary.
Holiday tipple of choice?
A gin soda.
Bucket list top destinations?
Best shopping gem found abroad?
Rue de Rhône, a shopping street in Geneva.
Beach or city?
Beach.
Ultimate holiday treat?
Having no agenda.
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Any Questions or Tips to add?