Meet Vanessa Coppes | Founder of BELLA Media + Co.

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

Hi Vanessa, what role has risk played in your life or career?
As someone who has been at the helm of BELLA Media and BELLA Magazine, I can confidently say that risk-taking is a fundamental aspect of innovation and growth, both personally and professionally.

I perceive risk as an opportunity to challenge the status quo and push beyond perceived limits. Calculated risks, especially, are crucial in driving new ventures and exploring new territories in the media landscape. When I acquired BELLA in 2019, I took a significant risk by entering a fiercely competitive industry, but our commitment to quality content and understanding our audience helped us carve a unique niche.

In my career, taking risks has opened doors to invaluable experiences and learning opportunities. Whether it’s spearheading new editorial initiatives, expanding into digital media, or crafting groundbreaking wellness content, these ventures have often involved bold decisions with uncertain outcomes. However, the willingness to embrace uncertainty has allowed BELLA to grow and thrive, fostering a culture of resilience and innovation.

Risk-taking has played a pivotal role in shaping my leadership journey and the success of BELLA Media. Each calculated risk I’ve taken has brought us closer to our vision, driving both personal growth and organizational excellence.

What should our readers know about your business?
BELLA Media began as a vision to create a platform that not only informs but inspires and uplifts. Our commitment to celebrating beauty, fashion, wellness, and lifestyle without compromising on substance is what sets us apart. At BELLA, we believe that beauty is multifaceted; it includes strength, compassion, intelligence, and authenticity. This 360 approach is at the core of everything we do.

I’m so proud of the community we’ve built — one that embraces diversity, champions innovation, and welcomes dialogue. Our magazine doesn’t just cater to trends; it sets them by putting forth stories that matter, highlighting voices that deserve to be heard, and promoting causes that foster positive change.

Getting to where we are today hasn’t been an easy road. Like any entrepreneurial journey, we’ve faced our share of challenges. From navigating an evolving media landscape to ensuring that our content remains both relevant and impactful, the path has required resilience and adaptability. One of the key lessons I’ve learned is the importance of having a dedicated and passionate team, like the incredible group we have at BELLA. Their support and collective expertise have been crucial in overcoming obstacles.

Another pivotal lesson is the importance of staying true to our core values. In times of adversity, it has always been our mission and our commitment to our audience that have guided us. Flexibility and innovation are also important; embracing change rather than fearing it has allowed us to evolve and stay ahead.

What I want the world to know about BELLA is that we are more than just a magazine. We are a movement aimed at celebrating life in all its dimensions. Whether it’s through our print issues, digital platforms, events, or partnerships, BELLA is dedicated to creating meaningful connections and empowering our audience.

Our story is one of passion, resilience, and belief in the power of storytelling. We’re not just here to share the latest trends; we’re here to spark inspiration, affect change, and build a better world through the stories we tell.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Absolutely! If my best friend were visiting me in New Jersey with access to NYC, I’d create an itinerary that captures the essence of both places, combining the charm of New Jersey with the unmatched excitement of New York City. Here’s how I’d plan out our week-long adventure:

Day 1: Welcome to New Jersey
Morning: Start with a beautiful breakfast at Over Easy Kitchen in Marlboro. Their inventive menu and delicious pancakes are a fantastic way to kick off the trip.
Late Morning: Wander around
Marlboro and explore some local shops, like Heart of Oneness Boutique in Manalapan.
Afternoon: Head to the Freehold Mall for some shopping.
Dinner: Dine at Ganga in Aberdeen for what is arguably the best sushi in New Jersey.
Evening: Wine on my deck to enjoy the view. Marlboro has some of the most beautiful sunsets I’ve seen.

Day 2: New York City – Midtown Magic
Morning: Catch a New Jersey Transit train into Penn Station.
Breakfast: Enjoy a classic NYC bagel at Ess-a-Bagel on 3rd Avenue.
Late Morning: Visit the iconic Empire State Building and take in panoramic views of the city.
Lunch: Head to Keen’s Steakhouse for an unforgettable Midtown lunch.
Afternoon: Spend the afternoon exploring Bryant Park and the New York Public Library.
Evening: Early dinner at The Modern by the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) followed by a Broadway show.
Night: Finish the day with a lively nightcap at King Cole Bar at the St. Regis.

Day 3: Exploring Brooklyn
Morning: Hop across the East River to Williamsburg, Brooklyn and start with brunch at Maison Premiere for oysters and charming ambiance.
Late Morning: Wander through Williamsburg’s streets, hitting up thrift stores and boutiques. Discover hidden gems.
Lunch: Grab an artisanal pizza at Roberta’s in Bushwick.
Afternoon: Explore Brooklyn Bridge Park and walk across the Brooklyn Bridge back into Manhattan.
Dinner: Check out DUMBO House or The River Café under the Brooklyn Bridge for great views and food.
Night: Enjoy the nightlife at The Ides rooftop bar for a stunning nighttime Seattle view.

Day 4: The Best of NJ Beaches
Morning: Early road trip to the Jersey Shore.
Breakfast: Stop by a local diner like Max’s Famous Hot Dogs in Long Branch.
Late Morning: Enjoy the sun and sand at Asbury Park Beach.
Lunch: Hit the Asbury Festhalle & Biergarten for a hearty midday meal.
Afternoon: Stroll along the boardwalk and visit the vintage Silverball Museum Arcade.
Dinner: Fresh seafood dining at Langosta Lounge right on the boardwalk.
Night: Live music shows at The Stone Pony or Wonder Bar.

Day 5: Central Park + Museums Day
Morning: Head back into NYC – breakfast at Sarabeth’s near Central Park.
Late Morning: Rent bicycles to explore Central Park.
Afternoon: Visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art and/or the American Museum of Natural History depending on interests.
Lunch: Casual dining at Shake Shack on the Upper West Side.
Dinner: Experience culinary innovation at Eleven Madison Park, one of the city’s finest.
Evening: Catch some live jazz at The Django in Tribeca.

Day 6: Shopping and Culture in NYC
Morning: Breakfast at Bubby’s in Tribeca.
Late Morning: Spend the morning shopping in SoHo for high-end boutiques and unique finds.
Lunch: A trendy meal at Jack’s Wife Freda.
Afternoon: Continue shopping and explore the art galleries in the Chelsea neighborhood.
Dinner: Dine at Pastis for a taste of French bistro cuisine.
Night: Capture the electrifying energy of Times Square then enjoy fine cocktails at Raines Law Room.

Day 7: Relax and Unwind
Morning: A leisurely brunch at The Turning Point on the Jersey waterfront with stunning views across the river.
Late Morning: Visit Liberty State Park and perhaps a ferry ride to Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty.
Afternoon: Wander through the charming, historic streets of Princeton, NJ.
Dinner: Eco-friendly and highly-rated Blue Bottle Café in Hopewell.
Seasonal Night: Depending on the season – a winery tour in New Jersey’s wine country or perhaps a drive-in movie experience.

I hope my friend would have the best and most memorable experience enjoying the rich offerings of both New Jersey and New York City!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Absolutely, acknowledging the incredible support and dedication of my team is essential in celebrating the success we’ve achieved at BELLA.

First and foremost, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Lynette Barbieri. Lynette, your commitment, support, and passion have been instrumental in driving our vision forward. Your relentless work ethic has continually inspired and uplifted everyone on the team.

Jennifer MacLellan, your exceptional organizational skills have been vital in ensuring our operations run smoothly. Your meticulous approach and steadfast reliability have played a crucial role in maintaining the quality and integrity of our brand.

Jonathan Calixto, your vibrant energy and enthusiasm for everything you do are contagious. Your ability to connect with our audience and your knack for storytelling have enriched our content in countless ways. Your dedication to excellence is deeply appreciated.

Roman, Daniela, Marta, Chris, Katie, Michelle, Miguel and so many others on my incredible team, thank you. I also want to recognize my husband and children for their support, the many mentors and of course, our readers who have been a source of inspiration and encouragement throughout this journey. The BELLA community’s belief in our mission to empower, inspire, and uplift has been the driving force behind our continued growth and success.

Behind every achievement there have been countless contributions from many. I am immensely grateful for everyone who has played a part in BELLA’s story.

Website: https://BellaMedia.co

Instagram: @vanessacoppes

Image Credits
All photo credits belong to @ Vanessa Coppes