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Introduce yourself! Who are you and what do you do?
I’m Jessica Gemma, a 32-year-old raised in Bridgewater, MA. I have been married for 8 years to my amazing and supportive husband, Luca, who I met on one of my family summer trips to Italy. We have a 5 year old son, Lorenzo, and can’t leave out our 7 year old husky, Loki. I like to say I’m a nurse turned baker, but the truth is, I’ve always been a baker/cook. I have been in the kitchen since I was three and never left it. Creating and learning in the kitchen is my therapy and what warms my soul. I am grateful for my years of being a maternity nurse. I met many amazing people who each had an impact on my journey. I just fully believe that if you constantly have a feeling that something is pulling you in a different direction, it’s okay to listen to it. It means there is something more you are meant to share with the world around you.
What made you want to start your business?
I have always had a passion for being in the kitchen. Watching my Nonna and mother cook was always fun for me. Growing up in an Italian household and spending every summer in Italy with my family, food was always the center of everything we did. As a little girl, my favorite pastime was reading cookbooks and trying out recipes along with watching every cooking show on the Food Network channel.
After 8 years of working as a bedside nurse and constantly having thoughts of wanting to bring authentic Italian flavors to my area, I decided it was time to make the leap. Following my dreams and doing what is in my heart is above all important.
What do you love the most about working in Massachusetts?
What I love about owning this business and bringing it to my community is that I get to share all the authentic Italian dishes/desserts that I grew up eating at home and throughout Italy with those in my community.
What are your favorite small businesses to support in Massachusetts?
My favorite small businesses to support are honestly any of them. For the reason that, like me, all small business owners are following their dreams. Every small business owner has something to offer this world, and supporting them so they can continue to share their gifts with their communities is important.
What has been the biggest lesson you’ve learned throughout your career?
Since this career is new to me, I will be learning many lessons, learning and growing from them. For now, I adapted the saying, “everything is figureoutable.” No matter what I will encounter, I will stop, take a deep breath, and start working on finding the solution.
If you weren’t in your current position, what would your next dream job be?
If I wasn’t opening my own cafe, my next dream job would be working in an Italian bakery or restaurant.
When you’re not working, what activities do you enjoy?
When I’m not working or creating something in the kitchen, I enjoy family time and spending time with my husband, son, and husky. I love going on family adventures, experiencing new things together, and creating the memories that are important for enjoying the life we are given.
Thank you for sharing more about yourself! Tell us how we can get in touch with you or find you online.
You can learn more about Jessica and Italian Gem Cafe via their Facebook page and Instagram account.