Founder of The Aperitivo Society & Aperitivo The Shop
I’ll be honest: writing about myself feels a bit like being asked for a fun fact on the first day of school. I know I’ve got a good one—but suddenly nothing comes to mind.
So here’s what you need to know: I’m a Gemini sun/Aquarius rising/Capricorn moon, a lover of beautiful things, good vibes, and gathering people around a table. As my Gemini sun suggests, I am a gal of many interests.
I live in Boston now, but I’ve lived all up and down the East Coast. I started The Aperitivo Society as a way to create community after moving to Boston, and it’s since grown into a full-on lifestyle brand—complete with parties, creative collaborations, and a shop.
Let’s talk details —
I host. I curate. I connect. I create. I run a business—and I want to help others do the same.
My background is in retail and fashion. I earned a degree in Retailing (Fashion Merchandising emphasis) from the University of South Carolina and spent 10+ years in the (retail) industry. I started in visual merchandising at Anthropologie and Nordstrom before moving into a more behind the scenes role managing wholesale businesses, providing trend forecasting, and brand development for women’s fashion labels.
After a pivot during the pandemic, I found my way into the home industry. I’ve managed wholesale for a home décor brand, led the textile and decor department at AllModern, and served as Head of Curated Merchandising for their retail spaces. In March 2025, I officially left corporate life to run Aperitivo full-time.
In the in-between moments, I’ve always enjoyed staying busy. I’ve built websites, curated social media feeds, built brand outlines and concepts, and consulted creatively on photoshoots and event production.
How can I help?
In addition to hosting, styling, and collaboration opportunities, I offer mentorship programs for people looking to take on a side-hustle, start their own business, dive into the retail world, or take the full-time entrepreneurial leap, and more. Please email me at colalanciamaria@gmail.com for more information.
