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

Hi Alexa, what habits do you feel play an important role in your life?
First and foremost—curiosity. I didn’t start out as a wine expert. I started out as a wine lover who couldn’t stop asking questions. I read, tasted, asked more questions, and signed up for classes. I immersed myself in the wine world not because I had to, but because I genuinely wanted to.

Consistency has also been huge. Whether it’s blog posts, Instagram Reels, or podcast episodes, I show up regularly. Even when I’m busy or life gets a little chaotic (which it always does), I carve out time to create and connect with my community.

Being authentic has been another non-negotiable. From the beginning, I’ve wanted to make wine feel fun and approachable, not intimidating. That’s why I’ll crack jokes about wine terms or share my husband’s hilarious mispronunciations of French regions—it’s all about keeping it real and making people feel included.

And lastly, balance. I truly believe wine and wellness can go hand in hand. I try to live that balance and reflect it in my content. Because yes, I love a bold red—but I also love a good Crossfit class, healthier foods, and a long walk with my dog.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I like to say I live a double life in the best way possible. By day, I’m the Senior Director of Marketing and Communications at Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM), where I get to tell the stories of incredible artists and connect people to modern and contemporary art in meaningful ways. By night (and weekends), I’m the voice behind Alexa’s Wine Diary, a wine blog and content platform where I make wine fun, approachable, and just a little cheeky.

And because I clearly can’t sit still, I also co-host a podcast called Pouring Over Pages, where my best friend and I pair books with wine—because nothing beats a good story and a good glass. It’s a project that combines two of my favorite things and gives us the chance to connect with fellow bookworms and wine lovers in a whole new way.

What sets me apart is that I bring a unique mix of creativity, strategy, and storytelling to everything I do—whether I’m promoting a major art exhibition or writing about the best bottles under $20. I’ve built my career by blending passion with professionalism and letting my curiosity lead the way.

Getting to this point wasn’t exactly easy. Like most people, I’ve had my fair share of imposter syndrome, burnout, and figuring-things-out-as-I-go moments. But I’ve learned that embracing what makes you different is your biggest strength. I didn’t grow up in the wine world or have a background in viticulture, but I leaned into my love of storytelling, asked a ton of questions, took wine courses, and just kept showing up. That consistency and authenticity are what helped Alexa’s Wine Diary grow into a brand that resonates with everyday wine lovers.

One of the things I’m most proud of is creating a space that feels inclusive. Wine can feel intimidating, but I wanted to flip that narrative and invite people in—whether they’re opening their first bottle of rosé or exploring the depths of Burgundy. I also love using my platform to spotlight others, especially women in wine, and to collaborate with brands and organizations that align with my values.

If there’s one thing I want the world to know, it’s that you don’t have to fit into a mold to succeed. You can be corporate and creative. You can sip Champagne and crush it in a marketing meeting. You can love art and wine and find ways to build a career that honors both.

My story isn’t linear, and it’s still being written—but I’m proud of every twist and turn. And I’m excited for what’s next.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Day 1: Art & Waterfront Vibes
We’d kick things off at Pérez Art Museum Miami (where I’m lucky enough to work by day!). I’d give them a personal tour of the exhibitions and the gorgeous bayfront setting, then we’d grab lunch at Verde—great food, even better views. We’d then head to Wynwood, checking out street murals, galleries, and boutiques, before grabbing dinner at Pastis.

Day 2: Paddle & Pamper
Morning paddleboarding at the Standard Miami Beach—peaceful, scenic, and surprisingly zen. Followed by spa treatments at the hotel facilities. hanging out by the pool, and happy hour sunset at Lido.

Day 3: Design District Chic
A whole day of fabulousness in the Miami Design District. We’d explore public art installations, do a little luxury browsing, and maybe treat ourselves to a piece or two (because, vacation). Lunch at Mandolin Aegean Bistro is a must—Mediterranean dishes, beautiful garden setting, and all-around good vibes.

Day 4: Homestead Adventures
Time for a day trip down south! We’d head to Homestead to visit Redland Farmer’s Market—a local gem full of fresh produce, random finds, and vibrant Latin culture. Think farmers market meets flea market. We’d grab authentic tacos, make our way through the stalls, and grab some plants from the nursery section.

Day 5: Grove Getaway
We’d spend the day in Coconut Grove, one of my favorite cozy corners of Miami. Brunch at Chug’s Diner, wander by the marina, browse local shops, and stop for a glass of wine at Vinoteca. It’s laid-back, lush, and feels like a mini escape within the city.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
There’s absolutely no way I’d be where I am today without the support of some incredible people and communities.

First and foremost, my husband, Sean Harvey, deserves a huge shoutout. Not only is he my biggest cheerleader, but he’s also my behind-the-scenes tech support, wine-tasting partner, and comedic relief (especially when he attempts to pronounce French wine regions—if you know, you know). He’s been there since day one, encouraging me to turn Alexa’s Wine Diary from a passion project into something bigger.

I also have to give major credit to the wine community—especially the incredible women in wine who have inspired and supported me along the way. From fellow content creators and sommeliers to winemakers and educators, it’s such a collaborative and uplifting space, and I’m constantly learning from the people around me.

Organizations like the Florida Wine Academy and WSET also played a big role in shaping my wine knowledge and confidence. Signing up for classes was a game changer—it took my curiosity to the next level and helped me build a strong foundation.

And of course, my friends and family who never blinked when I brought my camera to brunch or asked them to taste wine with me on camera. Their encouragement means the world.

So this shoutout goes to my husband, my community, my mentors, and everyone who’s ever raised a glass with me—cheers to all of you!

Website: https://alexaswinediary.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexaswinediary

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexaferra/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alexaswinediary

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@alexaswinediary

Other: https://rss.com/podcasts/pouring-over-pages/

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