Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Gina Bruno. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Gina , really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?
My purpose found me and continues to evolve. With a graphic design and marketing background, I spent several years in the field before transitioning to a freelance career in social media marketing.
All my clients were in the culinary world, including restaurants, bars, social clubs, and private chefs. I loved working with people in the food industry—it’s like a delicious religion that hooks you once you’re in.
Through this work, I experienced both the beauty and challenges of the culinary world and one day; I realized I needed to be more deeply involved with food. I immediately applied for food-related jobs and began working at a sandwich shop. My following roles were on the line at two excellent Brooklyn restaurants—Leland and Misi.
At the same time, my fiancé, now husband, and I, both with restaurant backgrounds, started renovating Frank’s House. We aimed to create a space where chefs could shine, cook, and connect with their guests. Franks also hosts numerous production needs that lean towards culinary – go figure.
So, in a long-winded way, my purpose found me and continues to evolve. I manage Frank’s House independently and love connecting with such unique individuals. I host numerous dinners and events there. Now, after having a baby, I’m transitioning back to my roots in food content, but this time, I’m doing it for myself.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
I am a food lover who became a chef and event space owner. While I love what I do, I am relatively new to the industry, having been in the food world for only three going on four years. I admire chefs who knew their calling from a young age, but I’m also grateful for my unique career journey.
At Frank’s House, I run the show single-handedly. If you email, message, text, or book a showing, you’ll be dealing with me directly! I love working with everyone who hosts events at Frank’s, and I’m constantly delighted and surprised by their creative visions.
When I’m not managing Frank’s, you’ll find me cooking, hosting, or filming culinary content. Since having a baby, I’ve been building a food content presence as a way to balance my passion for food with motherhood. Where this journey will lead is still to be determined, but you can expect plenty of recipes and food videos on my personal social media handles.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
1. My go-with-the-flow mindset
2. Fake it until you make it mentality
3. People person
These are three qualities that have always defined me. Each has its pros and cons, but they’ve been a constant throughout my journey, from my college days to my current life. My laissez-faire attitude is a hallmark of my personality. It’s great until it isn’t, but rather than fighting it and getting frustrated, I embrace it and let it be.
The “fake it until you make it” mentality might be cliché, but it has been essential for my progress. I wouldn’t have achieved half of what I have without a bit of faking along the way. It’s a fast track to learning and growth.
Being a people person and social butterfly has always helped me connect with others. I’m endlessly curious about people’s stories and journeys. This comes naturally to me as an extrovert, but I also appreciate my introverted people. I understand that, for many, social interactions can be uncomfortable and nerve-wracking. Regardless of who you are, connecting with others and sharing our worlds is one of the most beautiful lessons we can experience.
Okay, so before we go, is there anyone you’d like to shoutout for the role they’ve played in helping you develop the essential skills or overcome challenges along the way?
Without a doubt, my husband Garry deserves all the love—love you, Garr! Since the day we met, he’s been my rock. I run all my ideas by him, and he’s the best support system and has some truly brilliant thoughts and ideas. He encourages me to stay focused and take action.
What’s truly remarkable about Garr is that he extends this support to many others. Whether you need business or life advice, he’s the person to turn to.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Thisisfrankshouse.com
- Instagram: itsginabruno
- Other: @thisisfrankshouse
Image Credits
Kate Moran @_kate_moran
gabriela gabriela @gabrielagabrielaa
Katherine Groft @kgroft
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.