What's your favorite thing about Arizona?
The sunsets.
Where are your favorite places to eat, shop and to take your children in the Valley?
I love the warm staff and food of Veneto Trattoria, Sushi Roku, Pomegranate Café (I wish it was closer to our home!), and the outdoor ambiance of Lon’s. The kids love the gelato from That’s Amore and they enjoy the Phoenix Zoo and the Train Park. I also like to take them to the Ballet. I like to shop at the Fashion Sq. Mall, it’s easy to find everything there. For kids’ clothing I like Urban Kidz, Moonbeams and Garage.
What has been the most compelling charitable event or cause you have attended or been involved in during your time in Arizona?
I helped organize a fundraising event for Athletes for Africa and Women’s Global Empowerment Fund. Both organizations assist to empower and develop educational programs in war torn Northern Uganda. I travelled to Kampala and Gulu and witnessed the needs of the people living in displacement camps and was able to see the work they do. It was a privilege to do my small part in bringing awareness to their work in Arizona. I also co-directed a short film called "Unleashing Creativity" for the Free Arts of AZ, a wonderful organization that uses the healing arts and mentoring to heal abused, homeless and at risk children.
Steve and you have two twin girls and a son born just a few weeks ago. What's the toughest and best part of presiding over a young family?
The toughest part is after 6 years getting back to diapers! You forget how much work it is to have a newborn! But having two girls we really wanted a son. We planned Matteo for an entire year, and we are both so excited to have him in our lives. The best part is to see the girls love their baby brother and try to be good big sisters.
What is the best part of being a mom?
Watching your little ones grow and become their own person. There is nothing in the world that can make you feel love as powerful as your children can.
What is something you want to do but have not done yet?
Be fluent in Italian, learn to tango and to play “Moonlight Sonata” on the piano.
You have lived an interesting life. Tell us about some of the most impressive personalities you have met along the way.
I had the opportunity to meet a lot of interesting people through my life. But as far as famous personalities go, I will say that meeting Anna Wintour, George Clooney, James Cameron, Forest Whitaker and his lovely wife Keisha was pretty awesome. I have yet to meet Woody Allen, which is a dream I have. I have been a fan of his work for many years.
What does the future hold for you?
Future looks good. But I am learning that the journey is the important thing to focus on. Being present every moment, so I try not to think too much about the future.
Growing up, who inspired you the most?
My father.
SUV or sedan?
SUV, clean diesel.
What is in your iPod?
A crazy variety of music! From hip hop to classical music, tango to alternative, bossa nova to rock, salsa, children’s music, meditation…
Where do you go to escape and get away? Favorite place?
Any beach is my escape. I love going to Punta del Este, Uruguay. I also recently found a great healing place called Sanctuary at Sedona. It is wonderfully simple and peaceful and a great weekend getaway when I need to ground myself.
You are a very fashionable women. Who is your favorite designer?
It’s difficult to name one. Tom Ford (I can’t wait for his new women’s line), John Galliano, J. Mendel and Lacroix for red carpet looks and my friend Esteban Cortazar’s sexy feminine dresses.
Do you set New Year’s resolutions and if so what would they be?
I don’t. I try to keep myself in check often and I usually don’t wait for a new year to do so! Life is a learning experience and I am taking it day by day.
If you had one wish what would it be?
To live fully and inspired.
Photography by Ron Nachtwey. This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
