Meet Rhonda Rosen Virgin | Event Planner and Wine Educator, WSET2 w/distinction

We had the good fortune of connecting with Rhonda Rosen Virgin and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Rhonda, how did you come up with the idea for your business?
Rosé the Day Away started really naturally—friends would constantly ask me to come over, open a few bottles of wine, cook something good, and just talk them through what we were tasting. They loved wine but didn’t feel confident ordering off a menu or knowing what to buy at the store. Over time, I realized how many people wanted that same relaxed, no-pressure space to learn, taste, and ask questions without feeling judged.

With my background in the wine industry and love for entertaining, it clicked: I could turn these casual, joyful moments into something bigger. Rosé the Day Away became a way to bring people together over beautiful table settings, approachable wine education, and memorable experiences—something bespoke, fun, and totally un-intimidating.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My art lives at the intersection of wine, design, and experience. Through Rosé the Day Away, I create immersive tasting events that are as educational as they are beautiful. I blend my background in the wine industry with a love of storytelling, tablescaping, and thoughtful hosting. What sets me apart is the intentionality behind each experience—every wine I select tells a story, every table I design reflects the season or theme, and every guest walks away feeling more confident and connected.

I’m most proud of creating something that demystifies wine without watering it down. People often come to my events saying, “I know nothing about wine,” and leave saying, “That was so fun—I actually learned something I’ll use.” That shift, that spark, is what I’m most excited about.

The journey definitely hasn’t been easy—but it’s been incredibly rewarding. I spent years working in the wine industry, building a brand from the ground up in a competitive market. I wore every hat: sales, training, events, branding, even building displays in 90 degree temperatures! I learned by doing, by listening, and by staying grounded in why I started.

One of the biggest challenges was trusting that my creative vision had value—even when it didn’t look like anyone else’s. I had to let go of comparison and lean into what felt right for me. I also had to learn how to navigate the business side of things as a solo entrepreneur, which came with plenty of trial and error.

What I have learned is to trust your instinct, but stay open to learning. Surround yourself with people who lift you up and reflect your values. And don’t wait until something is “perfect” to put it out there—be ok with some imperfection because nothing will ever be “perfect”.

Also: there’s real power in making people feel seen and welcomed. That applies to business, but it applies even more to hospitality. When you make people feel at home, you’ve already succeeded.

Rosé the Day Away isn’t just about wine—it’s about creating spaces where people can connect, learn, and feel celebrated. Whether it’s a bridal shower, a birthday, or just a group of friends getting together, my goal is to take the pressure off and put the joy back in – to create a sense of community.

My story is rooted in saying yes to small, everyday moments—pouring wine around the kitchen island or backyard picnic table, talking through what we taste, laughing, learning, and making memories. That’s where it all began, and that’s what continues to guide me.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?

If my best friend came to visit, I’d curate the week like I do one of my events: thoughtful, relaxed, beautiful, and full of flavor. I live for the mix of local gems and elevated experiences—so here’s how we’d spend the perfect week:

Day 1: Arrival + Aperitivo
We’d kick things off with a sunset aperitivo on the beach – a chilled bottle of rosé, a little charcuterie, and toes in the sand. Dinner would be at Kaluz Restaurant, overlooking the water. It has a chic and calming vibe. It’s a soft landing into vacation mode. The grilled artichoke is my favorite by far.

Day 2: Brunch + Boutique Browsing
We’d start the day with brunch at Neverland, a quirky, artsy hidden gem where the coffee is next-level and the garden seating feels like a secret. Afterward, we’d explore Las Olas Boulevard, popping into local boutiques and art galleries and stopping by a local favorite, The Pretty Nomad located nearby. For dinner, we’d head to Takato at the Conrad for upscale Japanese-Korean fusion and ocean views. If we’re still up for it, go next door for rooftop cocktails at Nubé—always buzzing with great energy, a killer cocktail list and amazing views of the ocean.

Day 3: Boat Day on the Intracoastal
We’d charter a boat for the day and cruise the Intracoastal. I’d bring one of my signature “Rosé the Day Away” picnics on board to spoil her with a gorgeous set up, wines from Provence and Sardinia, and light bites that pair perfectly. Sunset on the water is a must.

Day 4: Culture + Cocktails
We’d visit the Norton Art Museum in West Palm Beach, then grab lunch at Restoration Hardware—their store is amazing and the rooftop restaurant is a must-go to location. Later, we’d check out the Colony Hotel – its PINK! and a historic hotel that has a great area for drinks and people watching. We would finish the night at Buccan for dinner and dessert.

Day 5: Spa + South Beach Adventure
We’d head down to Miami for a change of pace. Spa morning at The Standard, followed by lunch at Motek (a must). We’d explore the Design District and get a coffee at the Dior Café and finish the night with dinner at La Petite Maison (LPM for short).

Day 6: Farmers Market + Backyard Wine Night
Back in town, we’d hit the Yellow Green Farmers Market to grab fresh ingredients. Plus, my sister has a booth there and sells cute sunglasses and custom designed hats. I am sure we would find a new pair of fun sunglasses. That night, we’d host a low-key dinner at home—drinking wine while we cook, and playlists that spark great conversation. These nights always end up being the most meaningful.

Day 7: Leisure + Local Favorites
We’d slow it down—maybe a morning walk through Bonnet House gardens, or just lounging poolside at the Beach House (my home away from home) with frosés. Afternoon Drinks at Wine Garden, and one last walk on the beach before she flies home.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There are so many people who’ve influenced and encouraged me, but if I had to dedicate this shoutout, it would go to the friends who kept inviting themselves over to share a bottle of wine (and you know who you are), cook a meal, and teach them what they didn’t feel comfortable asking anywhere else. They probably didn’t know it at the time, but they helped shape the very heart of Rosé the Day Away. Their curiosity and encouragement reminded me that wine doesn’t have to be intimidating—it should be joyful, communal, and beautiful.

I also have to shout out the mentors and colleagues I’ve worked with in the wine world, like Ann Hafstrom, who started me on this wine journey and encouraged me to bring my creative vision to life and to Alessandra Esteves, who pushed me to grow and trust my palate. And to the women I’ve met along the way who juggle so much but we still show up to support one another. It takes a village and I am so grateful for the motivation. And of course, I cannot leave out my husband, who believes in me even when I doubt myself. He is my biggest champion.

Website: https://www.rosethedayaway.com

Instagram: @rosethedayawayparties; @rhonda.r.virgin

Linkedin: Rhonda Virgin

Facebook: Rosé the Day Away

Image Credits
@myphotostorie_events