Today we’d like to introduce you to Alysia Collado.
Hi Alysia, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself
I was born and raised in Staten Island, New York. My mom and I moved here when I was 13 years old. A pivotal chapter of my life was when I started cooking at the age of 5 years old for my mom. I feel like that influenced not only my career path, but it molded my overall self. That feeling of joy that it brought her has influenced me in everything I do now. Growing up, my parents took me out starting at a pretty young age, which also had a big influence on me. It, pretty much, started when I was still in a baby carrier. That, mixed with my love for taking care of people, is why I got into this business. I just love food, the world of beverages, and going out to restaurants. It fuels my soul, my creativity and brings me so much joy. That is why I love working in the hospitality industry.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle-free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
It hasn’t been a smooth road; however, I wouldn’t be where I am if it wasn’t for the obstacles. My parents got divorced when I was 5 years old. Because of that experience, I was able to learn how to be more independent. Watching my mom be a single mom and having to balance raising me, work, and going to school was amazing. It showed me that if I wanted to, I could do it all. That carried with me when I entered into a male-dominated field. It is what has allowed me to push further in my career to showcase my talent and prove my worth in this industry.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I work in the hospitality/wine industry. Currently, I am a Sommelier/Wine Director for a restaurant in Dallas. I studied Culinary Arts and Food Service Management with a minor in Sommelier at Johnson & Wales University in Providence, Rhode Island. My passion, and specialty, is wine. Once I took my first beverage class, I was hooked. I love being able to showcase different producers, talk to guests and my servers about wine, educating people on what is a, seemingly, hard topic to learn. I think what sets me apart, is my ability to talk about wine in a way that is approachable and relatable to people. One of the biggest things I am proud of is that as a young, Hispanic, female I have gotten far in my Sommelier career. I have been very fortunate with the opportunities presented to me and I do not take them for granted.
What matters most to you?
My family and my chosen family. They truly mean the most to me. They are my support system, my biggest influences and some are even my mentors. I can only hope that I make them all proud with whatever I do for my career. I am so grateful to be able to have that in my life.
Contact Info:
- Email: alysiacollado@icloud.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/educatedwino/
Image Credits
@kenrightphotograpghy
