Graza

Q: How would you describe yourself?

C: Always the toughest question. I am Caroline, the founder of Caro, a New York-based PR + creative studio for hospitality, design, and CPG brands. I feel lucky to say that I love what I do, helping brands understand more about what makes them unique, and be able to tell that story in a way that resonates.

Outside of work, I’m happiest exploring places, whether that’s an off-the-grid destination I’ll inevitably write about on our Substack (shameless plug), or a hidden neighborhood spot in New York that makes me stop and smile. I run, hike, play tennis; basically anything that leaves me knocked out by 10 p.m. And nothing excites me more than discovering a hotel or restaurant that nails both personality and design; I get so inspired by how people express themselves through spaces. 

Q: Finish this sentence, cooking for me is…

C: Connection. A recipe passed from my grandmother to my mom to me, or a dish a friend made once. It can instantly transport me back to that time and place.

Q: You’re an avid traveler and ‘anti-gatekeeper’, can you tell us some spots you’ve travelled recently and your favorite bites there?

C: Recently, I was in Costa Brava, in this seaside town called Cadaqués, and had Fideuà at Can Rafa, basically paella but with noodles instead of rice. So good, I can’t stop thinking about it.

In the spring, I went back to London, where I lived as a kid. The food has gotten so good (not the case when I lived there…). I went to The Hero in Maida Vale; bright, airy pub vibes and a memorable Scotch egg.

Over the holidays, my family and I went to the Dolomites, we snowshoed all day, and then stopped at a roadside spot for the best Canederli (the Italian version of a dumpling) with the most incredible mountain view. Honestly, I think a great meal in a new place feels like such an accomplishment, like you are in on a local secret; it’s the best feeling.

Q: What’s something we can always find in your kitchen?

C: Pickles.

Q: Any words of wisdom, quotes, or mottos you live by?

C: I try to live by three simple things: stay curious, be kind, and care. Care about the people around you, care about the world. Also, try walking in someone else's shoes every once in a while – empathy is not a weakness.

Q: Can you take us through your perfect day in NY? 

C: Oh, my perfect day in New York…okay, it starts early, walking my dog, Ollie, to the Union Square Farmer’s Market right when it opens at 8 a.m. I go almost every Wednesday to stock up on veggies, yogurt, fruit, bread, and flowers. On the way home, I’ll usually grab a chai latte at Olives or a matcha at Matchaful. Then I make breakfast and head out for a run on the West Side Highway; those quiet miles are the best time to just breathe/ reset, and the views of the city don’t hurt.

After that, it’s all about food, friends, and wandering. Some of my favorites: Joseph Leonard for the vibes, breakfast at Commerce Inn, Emmett’s for pizza (thin-crust only, also the one on MacDougal specifically), Raku for udon, JG Melon uptown or Hotel Chelsea for a burger,  and Minetta Tavern for a martini at the bar. Honestly, there’s so much to do and eat in this city that the list could go on forever, which is exactly why I love it.

Q: Outside of your work / creative practice, what are your favorite ways to recharge or find joy?

C: Changing my scenery is a big one. Every year, I spend a month working from Costa Rica, and I try to build in smaller escapes throughout the year. Stepping into a different rhythm, whether it’s the jungle, the ocean, or just a slower town, shifts my perspective and changes how I live, even if it’s just for a moment. New York is an incredible place to be creative, but I think it’s just as important to step away, spend time outside, and remember there are other ways of living. That contrast keeps me inspired and grounded.

Q: What’s something surprising people don’t know about you?

C: Most people assume I’m working my way through the latest NYT bestseller… but my true love is cheesy romance novels. Happy endings are wildly underrated these days, and nothing delights me more than a story that delivers exactly what you’re hoping for.

Q: Are you more of a Drizzler, Sizzler, or Frizzler? 

C: Definitely a Drizzler!

Q: What’s on the horizon for you?

C: I’m excited to keep growing Caro, but always in a way that feels personal and tight-knit, never too big, never losing that sense of connection with the people and brands I work with.

Personally, I’m looking forward to what unfolds. I want to explore new corners of the world, but I’m just as drawn to putting down more roots and creating space for new experiences that surprise and shape me. More connection, more learning, more moments that feel life-expanding, that’s what I’m chasing on my horizon.