Our people · Le Baccanti

People make
the difference.

Different backgrounds. A shared love of Italy. Meet the people who listen, design and care for your journey, and the relationships behind everything we do.

Vanessa Held
Founder & CEO

Vanessa Held

An agronomist and olive oil expert, Vanessa’s understanding of Italy began alongside farmers and winemakers. She founded Le Baccanti in 2004, bringing food, wine, place and personal connection together through travel. Her leadership centres on lasting relationships with guests, travel advisors and the people who welcome them across Italy.

Maria Jose Lobos

Maria Jose Lobos

VIP Travel Advisor

Originally from Argentina, Maria’s travel roots began in her family’s agency in Patagonia. She brings a background in business administration and an international perspective to bespoke planning. Her life in Tuscany connects that perspective with a close understanding of Italian food, wine and hospitality.

Lavinia Pasqua

Lavinia Pasqua

VIP Travel Advisor

Born and raised in Florence, Lavinia brings a local’s eye to the places and people she recommends. Her experience spans cultural journeys and destination celebrations. A love of family recipes, personal connections and detail informs the way she welcomes guests into Italian life.

Anna Pagliero

Anna Pagliero

VIP Travel Advisor

Anna’s path has taken her from law studies to sailing, professional kitchens and boutique hospitality. That mix of analytical thinking and lived experience shapes her travel design. She is drawn to journeys that connect culture, beauty and the stories of local people.

Tania Hirst

Tania Hirst

Booking Manager

Tania looks after the bookings that bring a personal proposal together. Her role connects travel planning with the arrangements made through our local partners. Working closely with the advisors and operations team, she helps keep each journey’s details in view.

Jessica Wynne

Jessica Wynne

Operations Manager

Originally from the UK, Jessica moved to Italy in 2019. Her background in hospitality and events brings an international perspective and practical experience to operations. She combines careful coordination with attention to the people taking part in each experience.

Elena Rusca

Elena Rusca

Financial Manager

Originally from Romania, Elena moved to Italy in her teens and studied languages before finding her path in finance. Her earlier work in software development strengthened an analytical approach. Today, she supports the team behind the scenes with financial care and clear communication.

Our most valuable asset

A network built
on genuine connections.

Since 2004, our relationships with guests, travel professionals, winemakers, chefs, artisans and local experts have shaped the way we work. They bring insight, a personal welcome and depth to the journeys we create.

Discover our approach to bespoke travel
Meet your Italy

Let’s start
with a conversation.

Tell our team what you love. We’ll help shape the journey from there.

Talk to our team