Where I come from, there is a saying: “We know more about the outside world than our own.” Growing up, I was always fascinated by the places around me, and I wanted to know more about my own world. That is why listening to people’s stories and exploring different places became a passion—one that later made me want to make another land my home and my message. And that’s exactly what brought me to the Finger Lakes at the end of 2024.
A few days ago, travel writer Mion Edwards came to Ontario County to explore the Brave Women history on full display in the region for Women’s History Month. As a Public Relations professional, when you create an itinerary, you think about how best to tailor every experience to the writer you are hosting, hoping they will get everything they need and that they will truly feel the community. This time—and possibly many more after this—I found myself exploring new places right alongside her, meeting the incredible people who make this county so special.
In Canandaigua, we had the opportunity to meet amazing women business owners who welcomed us and shared their stories at Patty’s Place, Sweet Solutions, and Sweet Expressions. They spoke about resilience, about building something meaningful, and about the strong support they’ve found within the community. As someone from another place where community is deeply valued, this made me feel at home.
At Celebrating the Women of FLX Wine at New York Kitchen, we tasted wines, but more than that, we heard these women’s passion for wine, as well as their love and support for one another. As I took a sip of locally crafted Riesling and Pinot Noir, I listened to their testimonies of perseverance and felt the weight of history in every glass.
With Green Riding Retreats in Bloomfield, we experienced the beauty of nature and the deep connection it shares with us. There’s something special about the way the landscapes of the Finger Lakes invite you in—not just to see them, but to feel them. In Geneva, we uncovered history at the William Smith Inn before dining at Kindred Fare and then meeting the incredible Nova Camadatre at Trestle 31, who sat with us and shared her inspiring journey. It is in moments like these that I find my job so fulfilling—learning from people and their unique paths that not only help you learn about your job but also make you reflect as a person.
I can’t tell you more just yet because we can’t wait for you to read the article, but what I can say is that I’m already looking forward to collaborating with more businesses and meeting more amazing people to continue working together to promote this beautiful destination.
If this industry has given me anything, it is the opportunity to find myself being a tourist in my new home every single day, with an endless sense of curiosity and surprise. With every new person I meet and every story I hear, I realize just how much more there is to learn in the Finger Lakes—and I’m here for it.
