ABOUT / MEET JANET

The Γoumenissa Project is a love letter to a place that quietly changed my life—part storytelling platform, part curated journey into the soul of Northern Greece.

 

From Ohio to Γoumenissa:
A Journey of Curiosity & Connection

I was born and raised in Columbus, Ohio, in a big family that gave me both roots and the confidence to follow my own path. From an early age, I was curious and independent—never one to take the same road as everyone else. Deep down, I always knew I wanted to live in Europe, to build a life that blended discovery, culture, and connection.

Storytelling & Entrepreneurship

 

That curiosity led me to study journalism and communications. I loved meeting people, hearing their stories, and learning what shaped them. My career began in media, with experiences at CNN and Getty Images, before I transitioned into fashion and retail working with Saks Fifth Avenue, Gap, and later luxury houses like Louis Vuitton and Tod’s. Along the way, I realized something important: storytelling and business would always go hand in hand for me.

A Life-Changing Moment in Γoumenissa

In the winter of 1998, while still in college, I traveled with a friend to a small town in northern Greece called Γoumenissa.
There, in the crisp mountain air and warm spirit of the village, I met George—my husband-to-be. Leaving the U.S. meant stepping away from family and a secure lifestyle, but it also opened the door to an entirely new chapter rooted in Γoumenissa.

Γoumenissa:
More Than a Place

 

Over the years, Γoumenissa became more than just a town—it’s been a teacher, a home, and a constant source of inspiration. I longed for one place to gather and share the stories, history, flavors, and experiences that make this remarkable town so special. That’s why I created The Γoumenissa Project.

The Γoumenissa Project

To me, Γoumenissa is more than a destination. It’s a brand with an aura of authenticity, beauty, and timelessness—unique, elegant in its simplicity, and deeply rooted in tradition. With my background in media, fashion, and luxury, I recognize when something carries that essence.

I call it a project because it’s always evolving. You never know where it will lead or what new stories and collaborations will grow from it. More than just a guide, this site is a digital concierge—an open invitation to discover Γoumenissa, connect with its spirit, and join me on a journey that continues to unfold.