About us
TasteItalian! is an "Umbrella Brand" of Making Business Happen that focuses on making the Italian excellence - food, wine, fashion, design, technology and art - go global offering those who are interested in building an authentic Italian experience abroad the opportunity to connect directly with the best Italian producers, artisans, designers and inventors.
How we started...
The concept of TasteItalian! took its roots back in 2014 during the International World Food in Baku. It was there that we proudly introduced our brand for the very first time, with the exclamation point becoming our distinctive mark, symbolizing the excitement and passion we have for the artistry and innovation that defines the essence of Italy.
Over the years, TasteItalian! has successfully collaborated with importers, distributors, retailers, and diverse business entities across Europe, the USA, and beyond. We have been a crucial pillar of support, connecting them with the richness and uniqueness of Italian products and creativity.
Our Vision
and Mission
Since that pivotal moment, TasteItalian! has undergone a remarkable transformation, expanding its vision beyond just food to embrace a celebration of Italian excellence across fashion, art, design, and technology. But what sets us apart and lies at the core of our ethos is our unwavering commitment to values like origins, transparency, ethical sourcing, and social responsibility.
Our journey has been marked by a deep respect for the origins of our products and the artisans behind them. We take pride in showcasing the authentic heritage of each item we present, honoring the centuries-old craftsmanship and traditions that have shaped Italy's legacy.
Through our comprehensive approach, we provide enthusiasts all over the globe with a truly immersive experience of the enchanting Italian lifestyle.
Our team
Silvia Mariani
Creator, Founder & CEO
Silvia Mariani is Founder, Ceo & Owner at Making Business Happen and Making Business Happen Usa, llc., Since date, she coordinates many projects to empower the Made in Italy and the international positioning of several brands.
She is a promoter of new concepts for art exhibitions, TV and retail formats to offer all who may concern a unique “360° – 100% Italian experience”.
Proud President of the
Tuscan Chapter Les Dames d’Escoffier International.
Stefano Pecchioli
Co-creator
Communicative, creative and eclectic, Stefano has been passionate about acting and cinema since childhood.
He began his career as a model by chance, noticed by the patron of a local radio station while eating a sandwich in a store on the outskirts of Florence, Italy.
Since then, he has ranged from fashion to advertising, from fiction to cinema.
Opinion leader in fashion and wellness, personal trainer himself, he invented a Super Hero character for kids – Ambulance Driver – and he is curating the launching and global expansion of DUKA Il Moro Firenze sparkling coffee, 100% Arabica beans roasted in Florence, Made in Italy
Silvia Baldini
TasteItalian! Academy F&B Scientific Director
Silvia Baldini is a classically trained Italian-born chef, a Chopped Champion on Food Network, and a culinary entrepreneur. She is knowledgeable and passionate about sustainable food, and she holds the belief that wholesome ingredients and traditional wisdom combined with technology will be the key to living a happy and healthy life.
Camilla Fondelli
Senior Export Manager
Since 2003, Camilla has led communication and marketing initiatives to promote Italy nationally and internationally, organising high-profile events and strengthening her expertise in internationalisation. At Making Business Happen, she has focused on the food and beverage sector, managing Temporary Export Management projects for Italian producers and supporting market-entry strategies, brand positioning, and tailored communication plans, as well as coordinating B2B meetings, trade fairs, and promotional activities.
A certified sommelier and licensed tour guide, Camilla continually deepens her knowledge of fine wines and Italian cultural heritage. These passions enhance her ability to communicate the stories and traditions behind Italy’s products, reflecting her commitment to sharing the country’s richness and beauty with audiences worldwide.
Jumana Chohan
MENA Export and Communications Director
Jumana Chohan is a creative professional who graduated from Polimoda in 2022, specialising in the Business of Fashion. Passionate about visual communication, creative strategy, and cultural storytelling, she integrates social media insights with brand DNA to craft compelling narratives.
Her experience and roots basing from MENA and South Asia includes marketing and partner coordination in Italy, as well as styling and content development in Kuwait. She is dedicated to bringing cultural perspective into export and communication, bridging aesthetics, market needs, and storytelling to help brands build meaningful connections.
