Hi, I'm Julianna.

I'm originally from Princeton, New Jersey, but my life has taken me to Greenville, South Carolina, New York City, Auburn, Alabama, and now Ariccia, Italy.

I grew up far from extended family, so we traveled frequently to be with loved ones across the U.S. My mom was a flight attendant and southern hospitality is her first language, having grown up in Mississippi. I've always appreciated the art of gathering around the table, welcoming both new and familiar faces, hosting tired travelers, and making people feel at home.

After college at a small school in the south, I worked in advertising in New York City for five years. It was exciting, challenging, and full of opportunities to meet new people. The endless energy, culture, entertainment, activities, and cuisines still make it one of the greatest places in the world to me. Eventually, the success I was chasing in my corporate grind couldn't sustain me, and the disconnection from myself became too loud to ignore. What started as a search for a different career path became a pursuit of a life that felt more aligned with who I am.

As I was navigating the ups and downs of my early 20s, I was diagnosed with celiac disease just before the pandemic. Like many people with celiac, I've experienced denial, frustration, acceptance, confusion, and everything in between. Some experiences and days are easier than others. 

Being diagnosed with an autoimmune disease has gradually become one of the greatest sources of growth in my life and also a blessing, considering I finally learned what was harming my body. As someone who has always cared about nutrition and wellness, it strengthened my resolve to take care of both my physical and mental health while still leaving room for balance and enjoyment. 

Living with celiac disease has changed the way I travel and experience the world. It has required confidence to navigate gluten-free eating, and advocacy for more inclusive dining experiences. And also a healthy dose of trust and gratitude. It's introduced me to incredible people, meaningful connections, and some of the warmest hospitality I've encountered. I have a deep appreciation for the people and places that go out of their way to make guests feel welcomed, cared for, and included, regardless of their circumstances.

I recently completed my master's in Hospitality Management at Auburn University, where I followed my curiosity and passion for food, wine, events, and travel. I'm drawn to places, experiences, and people that encourage curiosity, connection, and well-being. I love a beautiful meal made with seasonal ingredients, a charming city, a good glass of wine, a long walk, a meaningful conversation with friends and family, and the excitement of discovering somewhere for the first time. And most definitely a dedicated gluten-free restaurant where I can forget gluten exists for a moment.

I'm preparing for my next chapter in Ariccia, Italy, where I'll be supporting Auburn's College of Human Sciences' study abroad program while eating all the gluten-free pizza and pasta I can find. Thankfully, I already know the wine is safe. 

This is where I share my travels, current musings, gluten-free finds, and hospitality insights along the way. My hope is to inspire others not to let their limitations define them, seek support from their village (and doctor), and to listen to the voice that may be leading them toward something greater. For anyone living with celiac disease or another autoimmune condition, I hope this space reminds you that you are so much more than a diagnosis, and that challenges can sometimes become unexpected sources of strength.

Thanks for following along! I'd love to connect.