Finding Home In Italy

At the dawn of 2024, I made one of the most transformative decisions of my life: to uproot our existence in bustling Los Angeles and embark on a journey back to the homeland—Italy. As an Italian-American raised in the heart of California, I have long harbored a dream of returning to Italy, whether permanently or for an extended chapter of life. However, the path to achieving this goal wasn’t without its challenges.

Growing up, many would suggest pursuing citizenship through descent, a common route for those of Italian heritage. Unfortunately, due to legal and technical barriers, this option was not feasible for me. For years, it seemed as though my aspirations of living in Italy would remain just that—dreams. That is, until 2024, when Italy introduced its much-anticipated Digital Nomad Visa. Unlike the more straightforward processes offered by Spain and Portugal, Italy’s application process was nothing short of a marathon. It demanded patience, resilience, and over seven grueling months to navigate successfully. After completing interviews, paperwork, and countless back-and-forth exchanges, I was finally able to secure my visa. Thirty days later, with ticket in hand, I boarded the flight that would mark the beginning of a new life chapter.

Adjusting to Life in Italy

Two months have passed since our arrival, and my life here feels worlds apart from the one I left behind in Los Angeles. I had reached a point where the relentless pace of that city, the omnipresent stress, polluted air, and chemically-laden food were taking a toll on both my physical and mental health. I made a promise to myself that 2024 would be the year of health and renewal. By moving abroad before the year’s end, I fulfilled that promise—and my body and spirit are already thanking me for it.

Now, let me be clear: Italy is everything you imagine it to be—dreamy, majestic, and utterly enchanting. It has a way of weaving its magic into your soul. But as anyone who has made the leap from tourist to resident can attest, living somewhere is vastly different from visiting. My lifelong connection to this country, paired with my experiences studying abroad in Florence as a college student, provided me with a decent understanding of the daily challenges I might face. Still, there’s nothing quite like living through them to gain true perspective.

Italy’s culture, rooted in slow living, is both its charm and its challenge. Adjusting to a world where national holidays frequently close restaurants, grocery stores, and offices, or where customer orders take longer to process, has been a learning curve. But this slower pace also holds a quiet beauty—one that invites reflection and balance in a way that frenetic Los Angeles never could.

The Energy of Home

Despite the occasional inconvenience, there is an indescribable energy in Italy that resonates deeply with me. This land feels like home in a way that transcends logic. It’s as though the rhythm of life here is in harmony with my own.

Since arriving, I have been overwhelmed with creative inspiration. Ideas for new collections—spanning apparel, footwear, and accessories—have flowed effortlessly, almost as if the creative spirit of Italy itself is guiding me. My brand, so deeply intertwined with Italian culture and aesthetics, feels more alive than ever. Being here, in the epicenter of this rich heritage, has strengthened my vision and deepened my connection to the artistry and history that define my work.

Looking Ahead to 2025

As we step into 2025, my heart is filled with hope and excitement. This year, I aim to elevate my brand to new heights, weaving storytelling, historical references, and Italian inspiration more intricately into each creation. I want each piece to reflect not just the beauty of Italy, but also the journey it has taken me on—the challenges, the growth, and the quiet moments of joy.

To everyone who has supported me through this transition and beyond, thank you. Your belief in my vision means the world.

Here’s to a year of beauty, creativity, and embracing the art of slow living.

With love,

Annie Firmi

Designer & Founder