Laurie (center) inherited her love of entertaining from her mother, and learned to cook from her mother and grandmother, who were especially interested in preparing dishes that celebrated the family’s Italian heritage.

Growing up in Warren, a town in Vermont’s Mad River Valley, Laurie grew to appreciate food fresh from the farm, beautiful decor and the pleasure of gathering with beloved family and friends for meals.

She brings those passions to C&R, which she named in honor of her chosen state of Massachusetts and her Grandma Rose. Community matters deeply to Laurie, and her dream is to create a welcoming “third space” where people can come together to learn, celebrate and share meaningful experiences.

In addition to her mother and Grandma Nani, C&R is a tribute to her father, sisters Lisa and Maria, and her aunts Phyllis and Dorothy.

Laurie’s children, Olivia and Nick, and Nick’s partner Taylor, inspire her.