February 12, 2018
BBW Member interview with: Francesca Montillo, Founder, Lazy Italian Culinary Adventures
What is your name and occupation?
Francesca Montillo, Founder, Lazy Italian Culinary Adventures
What is your instagram handle?
@lazyitalianculinaryadventures
How long have you been a Boston Business Women’s Member?
1 year
Were you born and raised in Boston? If not, what brought you here?
I was born and partly raised in Italy until our family moved to the US when I was 11 years old. So I guess I was somewhat raised in Boston! Work opportunities brought my family back to Boston after a 15 year break in Italy. There was a bit of back and forth growing up in my family!
Tell us more about your job or company and what led you to your career?
I own Lazy Italian Culinary Adventures! I worked in healthcare for close to 20 years but in 2016, I started my own business leading culinary adventures to my native land. My business obviously stems from a love for Italy and its cuisine. In addition to the tours, I teach cooking classes, organize private itineraries and also cater dessert tables for parties such as Communions and Baptisms. The healthcare roles just didn't give enough vacation time to satisfy my travel needs! Not to mention, use of creativity is limited! I love what I do now. I travel often, I'm able to bring people back to my native land and introduce them to one of the greatest countries in the world. I'm not being bias, I swear! 😉
What would your clients say about you and your company?
The first thing they notice is my love for Italy, its culture and obviously its cuisine. This is pretty evident when we travel or when we take cooking classes. They would say that I am very detail-oriented, you have to be when you organize someone's vacation and that I leave no stone unturned. They frequently tell me that I am able to bring them back to their childhood and stir up memories of family dinners or special holidays. They frequently tell me that they selected my company not for the itinerary I was able to build or tour I was able to lead but because of me, my enthusiasm and the fact that I was actually born in Italy.</p> <p>They would also tell you that I am a mean baker! 😉
What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
``Do what works best for you`` - My mother reminds me of this almost every day. It may sound selfish but it really isn't, it's about self-respect.
What’s your favorite book?
The Magic of Thinking Big - David Swartz
What’s your secret weapon?
Podcasts! I am pretty addicted to them! Wish I had more hours in my day to listen to them!
What advice would you give to your younger self?
Feel the fear, and do it any way. Take more chances. Listed to your heart more and your head less. Don't get that Masters degree, you will regret it and be paying for it for years! 🙂
What is something that not many people know about you?
For many years, I was seriously afraid of butterflies! I love them now and find much beauty and serenity in them.
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Thank you so much Francesca for sharing with us!
Wish to become a member? We’d LOVE to officially invite you to join the inner circle of the Boston Business Women organization! Whether you are starting a new business or looking to advance your career, Boston Business Women (BBW) is the place to be for working women and women business owners who want to connect, learn and grow personally and professionally.Check out all the BBW Member Perks and invest in yourself today!
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