People: Model Marianne Fonseca Celebrates Gente Beauty's 1-Year Anniversary During NYFW (Exclusive)

The intimate brunch, designed by celebrity party planner Amanda Orso, was held at the private Manhattan club Zero Bond during New York Fashion Week.

PEOPLE spoke exclusively with the beauty CEO about the benefits of her brand, embracing the sexy spirit of Brazil and the immense support she has received from Taggart throughout her endeavor.

"I really wanted to bring the Brazilian culture to the world because we are very mixed in Brazil. I think we are one of the most mixed countries," Fonseca, 33, tells PEOPLE. "Anybody could be Brazilian — we have this acceptance of who we are and just feeling beautiful in your own skin."