Our Story
Where Love and Cheese Collide in Perfect Harmony
In the land down under, there lived a man named Marc. For a decade, he had called Australia home, immersing himself in its vibrant culture and warm, sun-kissed landscapes. Marc was no stranger to hard work; his background in sales and business development had taken him on a journey spanning over two decades in the hospitality industry. But little did he know that his greatest adventure was yet to come.
It was during his tenure in Australia that Marc met his second-half, Keila. With her infectious laughter and unwavering support, Marc found a partner who shared his zest for life and adventure. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and endless possibilities.
It all started with a chance encounter at Vannella Cheese, a renowned mozzarella maker nestled in the heart of Australia. Drawn to the artistry and craft of cheese-making, Marc felt a stirring within him, a longing to explore a new path and follow his passion. Under the guidance of skilled artisans and cheese masters, Vito Minoia (father) and Giuseppe Minoia (son), he embarked on a journey of discovery, learning the delicate alchemy of transforming milk into creamy, stretchy mozzarella.
Marc and Keila made the bold decision to return to his homeland, the USA, and embark on a new entrepreneurial adventure. Founded Solena Cheese, an artisanal cheese company dedicated to creating handcrafted cheeses of the highest quality. Drawing on his years of experience in business development, Marc set out to establish Solena Cheese as a beacon of excellence in the cheese-making industry.
The name "Solena" is a tribute to their beloved daughters, Sofia and Elena. It originated from a playful combination of their names, their shared enthusiasm for all things cheesy.
Meet the team
Where Passion, Expertise, and Innovation Unite
Katy Wilson
Production Manager
Katy is a vibrant and driven individual whose journey has been shaped by her love for family, adventure, and cheese. Growing up in Michigan instilled in her a sense of resilience and a strong work ethic, traits that have guided her through life's twists and turns. Her decision to move to Tampa to complete her degree in Sociology reflects her commitment to personal growth and the importance of staying connected to loved ones.
Family holds a special place in Katy's heart, and she cherishes every moment spent with them. Whether it's participating in outdoor activities, supporting her daughters in Girl Scouts, or simply enjoying quality time together, family is at the center of Katy's world.
Katy's passion for cheese is undeniable, with mozzarella holding a particularly special place in her heart. Her transition into cheese-making represents a pivotal moment in her career, where she found both challenge and fulfillment in crafting this beloved dairy product. Despite her previous roles in customer service and sales, it is in the art of cheese-making that Katy feels most at home, where her skills and passion converge to create something truly special.