Suitcase Series: Jessica Peris Founder Of BY THE BE
This week we caught up with Jessica Peris, the woman behind the beauty brand BY THE BE to find out what she never travels without, her packing tips, and what her most memorable trip has been so far…
Jessica Peris started developing BY THE BE’s hand and cuticle oils during the 2020 lockdown. As a nail artist, she saw the pandemic’s effect on her client’s hands – physically and metaphysically. Peris wanted to create a product that could connect with people on a deeper level and help them connect with themselves on a deeper level by encouraging self-love and care through one channel at a time. She wanted the hand oils to smell beautiful and provide customers with an opportunity (or a reason) to pause and take care of a small and undervalued (yet significantly important) part of their bodies. Peris believes by doing this, we take care of a part in our minds, too.
BY THE BE’s hand and cuticle oils are blended with natural and botanical ingredients, considered holistically for their topical and spiritual benefits, paying homage to the realms of aromatherapy and herbalism. The formulas are created with intention, considering every ingredient for their topical benefits, as well as spiritual and emotional attributes. The brand believes in the ancient power of plants and flowers, referencing traditional philosophies of aromatherapy and herbalism to ensure each product is aligned to serve your highest wellbeing.
In this week’s Suitcase Series, equipped with a bottle of Obscure from BY THE BE ($36) we take a sneak peek into Jessica’s travel psyche…
What’s been your most memorable trip and why?
In August 2019, I visited a close friend who lives in Los Angeles and took a short solo trip to New York. This was my first ever trip alone, and it came not long after the end of a short-lived marriage. Travelling by myself was something that always frightened and enticed me at the same time. Having that time on my own, with my own thoughts, making my own decisions has been one of the best things I’ve ever done and was a pivotal moment in my growth as a person. I also unexpectedly came across Jake Gyllenhaal in Broadway, which was a bonus!
What’s your favourite ever hotel?
Dana Villas in Santorini – it’s right on the cliff top overlooking an endless ocean. The staff are so lovely and the views are unforgettable.
Where or what is your escape?
Music. I play the piano and get completely lost in playing or listening to it, and there’s nothing like when an old song comes that transports you to another place and time.
If you could go anywhere tomorrow it would be…
Bali – it’s currently freezing at home, and a quick trip right now sounds amazing!
What’s your idea of a luxury wellness holiday?
A farm stay somewhere in the Southern Highlands, immersed in nature, but with close enough access to great food, wine, some creative activities like cooking or pottery classes, yoga, and places to walk. All things good for the body, mind and soul!
My top bucket-list destination is…
Ikaria in Greece. I’m fascinated by the Blue Zones, and would love to learn more first hand. My father is also a very proud Greek, so the country has a very special place in my heart.
If you could sit next to anyone – dead or alive – on a long-haul flight, who would it be?
Robin Williams. I feel like he would be a wonderful person to get to know and listen to his stories.
What is your jet-lag recovery tip?
I try to “check in” to the local destination time as soon as I’m on a flight. It can be tricky, but if I work on my sleep timing while I’m on the plane, I feel like it doesn’t hit as bad when I arrive. Eye masks, neck pillows, and calming oils help. The idea is to prevent jet-lag as much as possible!
What is your suitcase stalwart?
I always pack an empty Country Road duffle bag in my suitcase. It’s never empty when I return, and is great to have the extra allowance for carry-on.
What is your number one packing tip?
Roll your clothing, it’s easier to sort and fit in. Pack your proper beauty/skincare products, so at night time you can still do your rituals and feel a bit more at home. Take items of clothing that you can mix and match, so you have less volume but plenty of options.
I never travel without…
My AirPods and lip balm.
In my beauty / toiletry bag I always bring…
Our Eternelle face oil and Gua Sha, Mecca sunscreen, Hourglass blush/bronzer, The Ordinary serum foundation and my perfume oil from The Ayu (white oud is my absolute favourite).
To learn more about BY THE BE visit https://www.bythebe.com.au
