This is the third in our new regular blog series, Our Top 10 Favourite Things. Just a little window to help you get to know us better! Remember, we love to hear from you! Share your favourite things here in the comments section or on social media!
The Managing Partner at DNA, Maria possesses an unparalleled passion for client satisfaction and unwavering commitment to a client’s experience. Also known as “The Barista,” she has an impressive collection of martini shakers and other bar tools, tupperware containers, loves photography, cupcakes, and celebrity chefs!

1. Favourite thing to do on a weekend:
“Wake up leisurely, have a little time to myself before anyone else awakes. I start my day with a meditation. I light candles, reflect on all that I’m grateful for and set my intentions for the day. Yes, I’m a little woo-woo! Then I’ll make myself a latte and read something inspiring, watch a Ted Talk or listen to a podcast. This feeds my inner self-help junkie. I enjoy a good weekend brunch. I love cottaging, kayaking, walking on the beach or watching a movie with Emmanuel’s wicked buttered popcorn. This is my version of a perfect weekend!”
2. Favourite thing to do at home:
“COOKING!! That’s when I get into my zone. It almost always begins with opening a bottle of wine. I love to try new recipes or try a new twist on an old favourite. A lot of love goes into my cooking and I’m so happy doing it. Lately, I’ve been trying to eat more wholesome/less processed foods and have been getting a kick out of making my own almond milk, nut butters, and even a healthy version of Nutella (chocolate hazelnut spread). And let’s not forget dessert! I’ve recently made healthy truffles and raw brownies that satisfied even the biggest chocolate fans at DNA!”
Healthy Truffle Recipe
Raw Brownie Recipe
3. Favourite snack:
“A banana with homemade nutella from ”
4. Favourite beverage:
“Depending on the time of day, it’s either a latte or a Tom Collins”
5. Favourite movie or TV show:
“If I were to watch a movie over and over again, it would be the Lord of the Rings trilogy. It’s a 12-hour marathon! In the “most recent favourite” category is “The Hundred Foot Journey” with Helen Mirren. The only shows I watch are The Blacklist, Person of Interest, and Game of Thrones. Hard to have one favourite.’”
6. Favourite actors:
“Cate Blanchett, Helen Mirren, Julianne Moore, Morgan Freeman, Chris Cooper, Robert Downey Jr.”
7. Favourite book (or magazine):
“Tuesdays with Morrie was one of those life-changing reads. I also loved the movie with Jack Lemmon and Hank Azaria. Do cookbooks count? I love all of Ina Garten’s cookbooks (AKA The Barefoot Contessa). I think I’ve read them all cover to cover. I love ethic cookbooks that talk about the country/region or history behind the dishes. Favourite magazine: anything on Flipboard that has to do with self-help, design, business, or spirituality.”
8. Favourite time of year:
“Summer. I love the warmth, the flowers, the greenery and just being outdoors. I love going to all the farmers markets, local outdoor events and, of course, BBQ season!”
9. Favourite piece of clothing:
“I have a cozy “man robe” that I love to where on top of my flannel pajamas. It’s made with sweatshirt material and it’s so thin and worn out that you can almost see through it. Feels like a big hug!”
10. Favourite type of vacation:
“A cottage on the lake, where I don’t have to be on a schedule or cater to anyone. I can sleep in, start my day with a latte by the water and just lounge around in my PJs. I can go for a swim or jump in a kayak. I can cook a meal if I want to, or simply have wine, cheese and a baguette for dinner! I also love to play board games on vacation!”
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