My name is Maria Natale. I am a first-generation Italian-American born in NJ. I have been living in the Upstate for 11 years and am the owner of Gio’s Pastry Shop, Caffe, and Italian Market.
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
Both of my parents were born in Abruzzo, Italy and immigrated to the US, first to NY then NJ, in the 60s. They both came from poor families and immigrated in search of opportunity and better jobs to provide a life for themselves and their families back in Italy. My parents were married in the US and raised three kids, my oldest brother, sister and myself. My Father worked in the garment industry in NY and also owned several clothing factories in NJ as well as several food places including am Italian deli in NJ. My mother was a cosmetologist.
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
My career was originally in Healthcare since the time I was 15. I grew to love science and the body and pursued a Biology major with Psychology minor in college. I’ve always loved the hearing impaired and so after working in different specialties found ENT and Audiology is where I belonged. I was an otologic technician and tested patients who suffered from vertigo, dizziness, balance disorders and hearing aids. In the Upstate I worked for Carolina ENT for 11 years before venturing out to own my own business. Currently I own Gio’s Pastry Shop, Cafe and Italian Market in Fountain Inn.
Q: What are a couple of your favorite restaurants in our community?
L’Incanto, Ristorante Bergamo, Mauldin Gyros and Burgers which is soon to be Little Italy, Thai Cuisine, The Peddler.
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
I’ve lived here for 11 years and have owned the shop for a year and a half.
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community?
Alisa McMahon. She is an audiologist now in Easley but I worked with her for many years in Simpsonville. She is a beautiful soul who loves and has a true passion for what she does and a true woman entrepreneur with a humble heart.
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why?
Italy because it is my happy place and I love to see my family.
Q: What advice would you give to people?
Follow and have faith in the path God or whoever your higher power is leads you to. Whatever you are being called to do seek after it. Put in the hard work and be dedicated and one day your vision will come alive. Never give up.
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
Travel the world.
Q: What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community?
The local markets.
Q: If you could choose anyone that is alive today and not a relative; with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would y’all meet for this lunch?
Ashley Graham and Ristorante Bergamo
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
People truly look out for one another and are always willing to help each other.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
Hopefully still here in the Upstate serving nostalgia at Gio’s.
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I’m a huge pitbull advocate and undercover science nerd.
Q: What is the most beautiful place you have ever been?
Casalbordino, Italy.
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
My parents. They have always pushed me to accomplish things on my own. They had a challenging life but always worked hard and persevered to give their family a beautiful life.
Q: Describe what “neighbor” means to you?
Someone who looks out for you, has your best interest at heart.
Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
New Jersey, Simpsonville, Food
