Meet Dina Zappone | Wedding Venue and Catering Owner

We had the good fortune of connecting with Dina Zappone and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Dina, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I grew up working at my parents pizzeria in Vegas since I was 7 years old. I saw my parents hard work pay off. I always new I wanted to be my own boss.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I was born in Chicago to immigrant parents from Sicily. I grew up in Vegas, where my parents opened Pizzeria’s. Villa Roma quickly became a family business, and I began to work there at 7. I put myself through 4 years at UNLV went on to graduate with a Bachelors degree in Psychology at, but always remained in the restaurant business. While serving at The Mirage hotel, I was offered a Beverage Manager position. I oversaw 16 bars and 90 bartenders. I decided to leave the fast life and move to Rainy Portland, Oregon, where I managed for a Restaurant group for 4 years. Something always pulled me back to her hometown. In 2004, I accepted the General Manager position of the Italian Restaurant at the The Mirage, packed my bags and quickly went back to work.
Low and behold a handsome Italian Chef shyly cooking in the French restaurant. Sal and I were introduced and a true love of life, cooking, and each other blossomed. We have owned and operated 2 restaurants and a catering company, while raising our beloved children Bella and Enzo. It was Dina’s nagging dream to open a wedding venue that started the Vision Board. When Cozy Weddings of Gilbert went up for sale, for the second time, they were ready. The Cottage hosts Rustic parties under the stars, and quaint chapel ceremony indoors.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
We love historic downtown Gilbert! We would begin the night at Liberty Market for an amazing dinner and wine. We would then head over to The White Rabbit for a cocktail. If we are feeling particularly energized, we would finish the night at Whiskey Row. The spirit and energy of Gilbert is always on display downtown

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My story truly took a turn when I met my husband and business partner Sal. I always new I would marry a Chef, so on our first date, when he said he dream was to own a small Italian restaurant I swooned:) Together our love, family, and success grew. We have developed and supported each others individual strengths in the business.

Website: https://thecottageweddings.com; https://www.zcateringaz.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecottageweddings/ https://www.instagram.com/zcateringaz/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dina-zappone-3ba77a68/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thecottageweddings https://www.facebook.com/zcateringaz/

Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@thecottageweddings

Image Credits
I own the credits