Cultivating Beauty in the Simplest Things. Irene Bernie of Valdirose
Irene, can you share with us the story behind Valdirose? What inspired you to start this journey?
I was born in Valdirose, which was my family home. When my sister and I got married and my parents moved into the small house next to the villa, it was left empty. Without the financial means for a renovation and reluctant to let it sit unused, we decided to transform it into a B&B. We rented out the rooms of this home, a place that has always been open to the world, constantly filled with family and friends. Thus, it was a choice born out of necessity.
With a strong connection to your roots in Florence and a dedication to seeking new ideas and projects, how do you balance tradition and innovation in your work at Valdirose and in your culinary explorations?
I try to travel as much as possible, and it definitely helps that I spend most of my time with people from all over the world.
“I naturally focus on the small, everyday things because they bring me the greatest satisfaction and help me live in the present more fully.”
What drives your passion for hospitality and the beauty of small things? Can you trace this back to any early inspirations or influences in your life?
I’ve always lived this way. My parents taught me to invest in luxuries that cannot be flaunted. I naturally focus on the small, everyday things because they bring me the greatest satisfaction and help me live in the present more fully. My grandmother, a great lover of flowers and perfumes, once lived with us. In her room, she had little soap boxes adorned with bucolic images that I loved to daydream about. I often think that my taste comes precisely from those dreams!
With two cookbooks to your name and a column in Cook Corriere, your journey into writing and culinary exploration is inspiring. What led you to write “Quello che piace a Irene” and “I doni di Irene,” and how do you hope these works influence or inspire others?
It was a blessing when the publisher, who stayed at the B&B during a food fair in Florence (Taste), proposed that I write the book after his stay. I didn’t know where to start; I had never photographed or written about food before, but I said yes. I took photos of what I actually served at the table during those months. More than the recipes, which are really simple, I hope these two books encourage people to appreciate the simplicity of life. And, of course, to realize how beautiful and important it is to have food on the table and friends all around. As we say now: romanticising life.
How do you stay inspired? Are there any particular sources of inspiration you turn to regularly?
Without a doubt, art and nature are my biggest sources of inspiration.
What keeps you motivated during challenging times, and how do you maintain your creative drive?
I’ve learned to accept and embrace even the less creative moments, understanding that I also need periods of rest. It’s like seeds underground: with time, a beautiful plant will emerge. Taking care of oneself and engaging in activities for personal fulfillment, rather than for show, is crucial.
“If you infuse your efforts with love and determination, you will achieve your goals.”
Who are the people, past or present, that inspire you the most, and why?
It might seem self-centered, but I am deeply inspired by myself—the determination I’ve shown in the past and the woman I aspire to be in the future. This self-reflection keeps me inspired and motivated. I could never have imagined the opportunities and success that have come my way; who knows what the future holds?
How do you define success, both personally and professionally?
Success, to me, is defined by happiness and serenity: waking up with enthusiasm for the day ahead, surrounded by loved ones, and engaging in work that awaits us.
Reflecting on your journey, what wisdom would you share with aspiring entrepreneurs or creatives who admire your work?
Trust the process in whatever you are doing. If you infuse your efforts with love and determination, you will achieve your goals. The outcome may not be exactly as you planned—perhaps it will be even better. Listen to your sensations, and pursue what makes you feel good, despite the fatigue!
Is there a piece of advice you’ve received over the years that has profoundly influenced your path?
Creative individuals often have diverse talents and might feel as though they excel in none. I was advised to value myself more – especially when proposing fees for external work – or alternatively, to delegate this task to someone who could. This advice transformed my approach, leading me to accept jobs that contribute to my growth rather than those that diminish my worth.
“Art and nature are my biggest sources of inspiration.”
Throughout your journey with Valdirose, what have been some of the most significant lessons you’ve learned about yourself, your craft, and the way you engage with the world?
The Valdirose journey has been revelatory, helping me to uncover the real Irene—not just my voice, passion, and talent, but also my personality. Among the many lessons learned, a favorite that pertains to my craft and my engagement with the world is the realisation that you can give your best without having to give everything.
Born in Florence, Italy, Irene has dedicated herself to Valdirose, a family-run bed and breakfast, since 2007.
At Valdirose, she creates an inviting atmosphere, develops recipes, and hosts workshops and retreats that celebrate the beauty of small things. Surrounded by creativity, she is always on the lookout for new ideas and projects. With a keen eye for details, frugality, light, fabrics, and natural materials, Irene finds inspiration everywhere. When not busy at Valdirose preparing breakfasts or taking photos, she can be found wandering the woods or browsing local markets and antique stores. Irene is also the author of two cookbooks, “Quello che piace a Irene” and “I doni di Irene,” published by Guido Tommasi Editore, and she contributes as a columnist for Cook Corriere.