Today we’d like to introduce you to Marci Symington.
Hi Marci, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I was raised in Texas, San Antonio to be exact, and moved to Arizona for graduate school, where I met a cute boy and stayed. Thirty years and three kids later, I still call this beautiful desert home.
I began my career as a CPA, but quickly realized that cubicle life wasn’t for me. I had always loved food and cooking, so I took a leap and enrolled in culinary school at the Arizona Culinary Institute. With a growing family, I soon discovered that writing about the culinary world gave me a way to combine that passion with a career that worked with family life.
That eventually led to TEXAZTASTE, my blog and Instagram platform, and to writing professionally about food, wine, and the Arizona culinary scene. I continue to cover Arizona restaurants and the people behind them through A Taste of AZ magazine, as well as my work with The Tasting Panel and The SOMM Journal.
Travel has always been an important part of my life. More specifically, food, wine, and culture shape how I experience a destination, and after years of writing about the places I visited, I decided to take that passion a step further and become a travel advisor. Today, my work spans food, wine, and travel, which feels like a pretty natural evolution from that decision years ago to leave the cubicle behind.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Life does not lead you down a straight road. I started out in what many might call a “traditional” business career path for an MBA, but quickly realized I was unhappy. The biggest challenge was balancing a growing family while pursuing a fulfilling career that still gave me the flexibility I needed. I didn’t really know where I was going or had a grand plan. I just followed the opportunities that interested me, and eventually found my way to work that I genuinely enjoy.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I wear several hats, but they all focus on food, wine, and travel. I write about the Arizona culinary scene, create content through TEXAZTASTE, and work as a luxury travel advisor, helping clients plan everything from weekend getaways to bucket-list vacations. I speak English, Spanish, and French, and have traveled extensively myself. What sets me apart is my culinary background, my WSET Level 4 Diploma in Wine, and the way I approach travel through food, wine, and experiences.
What matters most to you? Why?
Family. It has always been at the center of my life and has shaped the choices I have made, both personally and professionally.
Pricing:
- I charge a fee based on the scope and complexity of each trip.
Contact Info:
- Email: marci@luxurycrossings.com
- Instagram: texaztaste
- Facebook: texaztaste
- LinkedIn: Marci Symington
