Everyone needs a friend like Enrica. The friend that calls you a "genius" but will also give you actual actionable feedback. She's sincere in her praise, and thoughtful with her criticism. When she gives you a compliment you know she means it.
Enrica happens to be Italian, not Italian American, the real deal. She's effortlessly stylish, insanely bright, and entrepreneurial.
I also know about as much Italian as a speech delayed Italian four-year-old, but Enrica is always delighted when I try to remember my classes from 20+ years ago. Allora...
But what's most admirable about Enrica is her bravery. Bravery to move across the world and imagine a new life, bravery to put her passion on display and start a brand, Piuma. And brave to wear an avant-garde chunky necklace that would look like a literal noose on anyone else.
Her bravery inspired me to believe I could do my own thing too. A now here we are putting ourselves out there, being brave together.
Image of the original Italian jewelry influencer, Elsa Peretti.