Risa Kostis
I come to Florencetown originally from Maine but currently from Phoenix, Arizona. I’ve been fortunate enough to also live in many major cities including Boston, New York, San Francisco and now Florence. I have a Bachelors degree in Communication and minor in Media Analysis from Arizona State University, where I went not only to study but to enjoy both the sun and a passion of mine since the age of twelve — golf. My professional experience spans areas such as public relations, hospitality, hairstyling and makeup artistry for weddings, and style consulting. Most recently, I worked in the fashion industry as a former event planner and public relations director in San Francisco and New York City. That passion followed me to Phoenix where I work now as a freelance consultant in hospitality, fashion, and publishing. Coming from a family of cooks, sailors, and adventurers; I live for food and the seaside — always trying to taste flavors from different regions and never shying away from a chance to experience something new. I’ve found that through my love of travel and the thrill of never knowing where I’ll end up, meeting new people and seeing new countries has shaped my personality and contributed to my zest for life. My travels have taken me to Spain, Germany, Canada, France, Holland, Italy, and many places throughout the United States. As the sister of both an Occupational Therapist and a Registered Dietitian, I have tried to balance a life of indulgence with good health. I savor fresh produce and dairy from my newfound haven, Il Mercato Centrale as well as long walks and stair climbs around Florence (so I can drink more wine and eat more cheese of course). I am devoted to trying to master the Italian language and am incredibly lucky that I have found myself in the breathtaking city of Florence. If I ever have leave this great city, I hope to visit more amazing countries across the globe and continue to revel in what the world has to offer. Other goals include spending more time near the water, a love of sports, reading, great caffe, shopping, and the hope of having a family one day. My adventures have inspired a new love of writing, which is what drove me back to Florence to live and record a life of cultural and social richness. Most importantly, I believe that living each day to the fullest and a positive, ambitious outlook on life can take you anywhere you want to go and expose a world of possibilities.