Elizabeth’s story blends Italian American roots with a passion for Italian craftsmanship, proving that love belongs at the heart of what you create and buy.
Italian American Heritage Month is a time to honor traditions carried across generations. In this conversation, we feature Elizabeth Graceffo of My Italian Decor, who grew up surrounded by family, food, and stories that shaped her Italian American identity. Today, she channels that heritage into curating artisan-made treasures from Italy for her California-based business.
This interview is also part of our Italy Answered series, available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube, where we connect readers and listeners with voices celebrating Italian culture worldwide.
Where were you born and raised? (02:32)
My grandparents and great-grandparents were from Sicily, and I was lucky to know them until I was about twelve. They lived in upstate New York and spoke with a strong Italian accent. My parents were both born there too, though my dad eventually moved us west. I was born in Detroit and grew up in California, but I also spent six years living in Florence, Italy.
How did your family preserve traditions? (03:35)
It was always about the table. My great aunt Catherine had the largest house, so she hosted gatherings filled with food, laughter, and games. She baked fourteen types of cookies in anticipation of our visits. We’d sit for hours eating, drinking coffee, and playing cards. Every Italian home had something to offer — cookies, breads, or always coffee. Those gatherings are my strongest connection to my heritage.
Editor’s Note: Italian Americans often describe “la tavola” — the table — as the heart of cultural life. Beyond food, it represents a space of love, family, and connection. Elizabeth’s stories echo countless Italian American households where the table was never just for meals, but for memory-making.
What traditions continued in your own home? (07:35)
Family meals were a constant. My father worked a lot, but when he was home, dinner was around the table. Sundays often meant brunch together. I carried that forward with my husband and two children. Even when dining alone, we set the table. In Italy, you never eat in your car or in front of the TV — the table matters, and I wanted my kids to understand that.
Editor’s Note: Setting the table, even for an ordinary meal, may seem small, but it symbolizes respect for tradition. For Italian families, this daily ritual reinforces the idea that food is more than nourishment — it’s love.
When did you first connect with Italy? (10:40)
My first trip was in 1980 with my parents and siblings. I immediately felt connected — to the language, to the people. I went back the next year for school, then ended up staying in Florence for six years. That’s how I became fluent and immersed myself fully in Italian life.
How did My Italian Decor begin? (12:12)
I was always artistic, not academic. In high school I studied jewelry-making, ceramics, and leatherwork. When I moved to Italy, I worked in a leather factory, creating wallets, handbags, and belts. Later, I shifted from leather to Murano glass after reconnecting with a friend in Venice. What started with wholesale eventually became retail — and My Italian Decor was born.
What can customers expect from My Italian Decor? (15:17)
A wide range of artisan-made items: Murano glassware, vases, ornaments, Florentine leather bags, jewelry, ceramics, and even cashmere baby clothes. My philosophy is simple: if a piece makes me smile, it’s worth sharing. That love is what guides every choice I make.
Editor’s Note: That philosophy — “does it make you smile?” — is also excellent advice for anyone shopping for their home. In the world of design and décor, trends may come and go, but buying with love creates pieces that hold personal value far beyond price tags.
Why is artisan support important? (19:18)
Murano glass faces challenges — rising costs, younger generations leaving the trade, and Venice changing with tourism and Airbnb. Many furnaces have closed. Still, there are artisans working with passion. I tell customers: don’t just ask if something is valuable. Ask yourself, “Do you love it?” If it makes you happy, it has value.
Editor’s Note: Murano glassmaking dates back to the 13th century, when Venetian artisans were moved to the island of Murano to protect their secrets. For centuries, their work was prized across Europe. Today, supporting these artisans ensures that one of Italy’s most iconic crafts does not vanish in the face of modern pressures.
How do you ensure authenticity? (24:45–27:12)
Relationships. I’ve worked with many of these artisans for decades. Some sign their work, and we provide certificates, but anyone can print a certificate. The best safeguard is knowing the artist and their story. On my website, you’ll find photos of me with artisans I’ve known for years. That connection is the real guarantee.
What are your favorite places in Venice and Murano? (29:19)
I love wandering the northern and western parts of Venice, away from San Marco and the Rialto. There’s a park in the far west that’s beautiful. Sometimes the best thing to do is simply get lost in the streets or sit in a café, drink coffee, and watch the world go by.
Editor’s Note: For travelers, Elizabeth’s advice highlights the importance of “slow travel.” Beyond Venice’s major landmarks, quiet corners, parks, and local cafés offer some of the city’s most authentic experiences.
What’s next for My Italian Decor? (31:33)
Growth. We’ve expanded a lot in the past four years, and I’d like to explore more textiles. I’d also love to spend more time in Italy. Right now, I go twice a year for two weeks. Two months would let me soak up the culture again and discover even more artisans.
Living Traditions
Elizabeth Graceffo’s story reminds us that Italian American heritage is not just about ancestry, but about living traditions — family around the table, authentic craftsmanship, and love at the heart of every choice. Through My Italian Decor, she shares Italy’s artistry with a wider audience, ensuring these values continue to thrive across borders.
Select pieces from My Italian Decor will also appear in our upcoming Holiday Gift Guide, just in time for the season of giving. And since we believe in sharing love with our readers too, be sure to follow @liveinitalymag on Instagram, where we’ll be hosting a giveaway contest in November.
My Italian Decor’s website.
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