In the kitchen with my friends Cristina V. Sheldon and Linda Vitiello

I am the lucky one.

At our market, I am continually inspired. Time spent in the food business requires long days and a lot of energy. But, the wonderful side effect is meeting the most talented and loving people. This also brings beautiful friendships and so much joy to my life.

More recently I have had time to invite friends and customers into my kitchen. Cooking together and learning how other small business owners navigate the challenges and dynamics of small business is a passion.

On this particular afternoon, Cristina and Linda joined me. We discussed the beauty and the challenges of designing and selling jewelry, as well as working with family. Women in business, supporting other women in business. The perfect combination.

If you are going to spend lots of time in the kitchen, you absolutely should be wearing fancy jewelry!

Keri Chinappi ~Chowfancy~

Cristina V.  is a Made in America brand designed by Cristina V. Sheldon.

Cristina has been creating jewelry ever since she was a little girl. Graduating from Boston College with a degree in business and a desire to make her passion her career, Cristina V. was launched in 2006 and demand quickly followed.

Cristina sources the finest materials from around the globe, but insists on keeping all of her items handmade in New York. In addition to supporting local businesses, this provides a short ordering cycle for purveyors of Cristina V., hands on quality assurance and the ability to create custom pieces when requested by a shop or long time customer.

When asked what inspires her the most, Cristina always answers, “My customers- they are the constant force that challenges me to explore new design ideas, while staying true to the brand that I have created.  Regardless of the demands that come with consistent growth, I cherish the one-on-one time that I get with my clients- many of whom own Cristina V. originals.”

Distinctive packaging and hand written notes are quickly recognized when someone receives a Cristina V.  A talented, dedicated and happy  “can do” staff make the experience one that quickly becomes habit forming.

Click here for CrisinaV website, where you will find her once-a-year sale of 30 percent off site-wide! The sale runs Friday November 22, 2024 through Wednesday December 4, 2024. ** Online Only** https://cristinav.com/about-cristina-v/ Please use Promo Code CVCYBER to receive 30 % off site-wide.

Cristina invites you to explore and share in the joy that so many have come to know as quite simply, Cristina V.

You will also find Cristina V on Instagram @cristina___v

Her email for direct contact with custom orders cristina@cristinav.com

As a creative small business owner, one becomes immersed in the local community. Anthony and I are continually uplifted by loyal customers who frequent our market each week. I love talking with other local business owners, especially those working closely with their families. Small businesses are the heartbeat of our communities and bring creativity and uniqueness to our towns across Long Island.

I’d love to thank Cristina and Linda for making the time to join me in my kitchen. Sharing moments and talking about our passions give us the opportunity to unwind. They also help us become better in our lives and at work.

Below… Linda prepares her delicious fresh basil pesto…( Linda’s recipe is printable and posted at the bottom of this page.)

Cristina and I assemble charcuterie as we discuss where you can purchase Cristina V designs while shopping locally!

Some behind-the-scenes photos from our afternoon cooking together in Chowfancy Kitchen. Each of my videos is produced and filmed at my home in the kitchen, which I designed as my workshop. Color and functionality are two main themes throughout our business, especially in our home. Color makes me happy and inspires me to create. Functionality keeps everything running smoothly and gives purpose to each corner of our home.

Chowfancy is defined by Eat Well, Love Well, Live Well. It was born as my contribution to our family business, R&S Meat Market. Chowfancy started by sharing cooking details with our customers. Now it has become a lifestyle brand and a recognizable ™️.

As we head into the holiday season, remember the small local businesses that surround us. They can use our support as we shop for the special people in our lives. Make a list before you head out to do your holiday shopping. Most times, the best gifts are made and sold locally. They will make both the business owner and the gift recipient very happy!

As always, I thank you for your love and support of our small business! Cheers to you and your family with wishes for a bright holiday season filled with much love and joy….shared together at home!

Chowfancy Friends,

Keri

Click here to view and print and Linda’s Pesto Recipe