FAMILY IS EVERYTHING…Family, Food and Fun go together, and no one delivers it better than Maria Alampi. With her infectious personality and winning smile, Maria has built a loyal following showcasing the art of Italian cooking to new friends. Born in the tiny rural village of San Mango Cilento, Salerno, Italy. At 13, she and her family arrived in the US to Paterson, NJ. Changes in her life included learning a new language, tending to her four younger siblings, and at times, cooking for a family of 7. City life replaced her small Italian village pace, but Maria persevered and thrived. Her acclaimed interactive cooking classes enchant all the senses with passion and charm…and an occasional dash of whimsy. She doesn't attempt to over-power or to impress, her mission morphs into the joy of her message, as she says, “Una persona può fare la differenza”. Enjoy her creative passion for the comforting tastes and aromas of authentic dishes from her beloved Italy. In her kitchen, “Siamo tutti una famiglia”.