Today we are introducing you to Maria Bassa as our BethieLife Woman Crush. Maria is a charisma coach, which as she puts it is a fun way to say that she’s a speaker and trainer on the subject of interpersonal skills. This fabulous lady can definitely teach us a thing or two! Check out the video below for a great tip on making a great first impression.Welcome, Maria!
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Houston, but my husband is from Italy.
If you were stranded on a desert island, what three beauty products would you like to have with you?
I would take care of my skin first. I love Bobbi Brown BB Cream for the face. For the body I prefer oils like Mama Mio. They do a great cream for the breasts called Boob Tube – it actually lifts. Also, Moroccan Argan Oil is fantastic.
Who or what has been the biggest influence on your personal style?
My Italian husband has been a big influence on my personal style. He taught me how to discriminate between trends and true style. Some life changing moments: reading Red Riding Hood…of course I developed a life time obsession with capes after that! And Dr. Zhivago‘s love Julie Christie with that black velvet choker inspired decades of collecting chokers.
What is your favorite indulgence?
Without a doubt great food! And I consider daily marketing for local and seasonal food a wonderful treat…all a part of my indulgence.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
Follow the golden rule of small talk: 1) shut up and listen 2) repeat one, shut up and listen 3) check your ego at the door. If you follow this advice, everyone will think you are the most charming, intelligent and witty human on the planet.
What is your favorite Houston store and/or restaurant?
Favorite Houston store: Central Market. It’s full of happiness, and it’s the only place in Houston I have a chance to run into friends. It’s our answer to Italy’s piazza!
Favorite restaurant: Brasserie19, great food, great people watching, and it’s easy to connect with friends there. Everybody’s socializing at the bar then back to their table the up again. Fun fun
What’s on your plate? (Future projects, travel plans, etc.)
So much of our lives are lived through our children. My daughter, Francesca, is a big time fencer who travels the globe constantly to represent the U.S. at world tournaments. She will graduate from Stanford this spring. A lot of people say “you must be proud of her” and I usually answer” I’m proud of myself and I’m waiting to be proud of her!” I think parents can relate to that!
Tell us one Houston Hidden Gem (places that aren’t necessarily well-known) that you recommend.
La Carafe. It’s Houston’s oldest bar and I love to take visitors here.
Tell us three of your favorite shopping/beauty/lifestyle websites.
Bergdorf’s is female porn for me! I’ve also recently discovered Sole Struck and Agent Provocateur.
Tell us three of your health/beauty tips.
Get a dog, walk a dog, love a dog.
What are three things you can’t live without? (Besides God, family, and friends.)
The unconditional love of pets, my iPad, and a good dermatologist.
Do you have any irrational fears?
Well I am a bit of a hypochondriac, but after age 50 there is no such thing. Irrational fears become all too rational!
What is your favorite vacation spot?
Antarctica to watch the Emperor penguin migration! Really, anywhere there is good company makes a good vacation spot.
If you weren’t in your present occupation, what would you dream of doing?
Getting elected president of course!
What books or movies have you loved recently?
Best new book: Are You Smart Enough to Work at Google? And the answer is yesssss!
Okay, so how do I get in touch with Mrs. Bassa about her coaching service for help with my charisma? I took a class she hosted at LLU several years ago & found it extremely valuable, but misplaced her business card & contact info.
You can email her at [email protected]
those are number one’s after her name