Childhood and Education Journey of Ina Garten in Timeline

An overview of the childhood and early education of Ina Garten, highlighting the experiences that shaped the journey.

Ina Garten is an American television cook, author, and host of Food Network's "Barefoot Contessa." Initially working in the Office of Management and Budget, she transitioned to the culinary world by opening a gourmet food store, Barefoot Contessa. This venture paved the way for her successful career, including best-selling cookbooks, magazine columns, and her popular television show. Garten is known for her approachable recipes and simple techniques, featuring dishes like Perfect Roast Chicken and Weeknight Bolognese. Her brand emphasizes accessible elegance in home cooking.

Sections (3)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements

February 2, 1948: Ina Garten's Birth

On February 2, 1948, Ina Rosenberg Garten was born. She is known as an American television cook and author, as well as the host of the Food Network program Barefoot Contessa.

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1954: Inspiration for 'Barefoot Contessa' Name

In 1954, the original owner of the store named it 'Barefoot Contessa' as a tribute to the 1954 film starring Ava Gardner. Ina Garten kept this name when she purchased the store.

December 22, 1968: Ina and Jeffrey Garten's Marriage

On December 22, 1968, Ina Rosenberg and Jeffrey Garten got married in Stamford and soon after, moved to Fort Bragg, North Carolina, where Ina began exploring cooking and entertaining.

1972: Move to Washington, D.C.

In 1972, Ina and her husband moved to Washington, D.C., where she further refined her home entertaining skills, hosting weekly dinner parties.

1978: Purchase of Barefoot Contessa Store

In 1978, Ina Garten left her government job and purchased the Barefoot Contessa, a 400-square-foot specialty food store in Westhampton Beach, New York.

1985: Opening of Second Barefoot Contessa Location

In 1985, Ina Garten opened a second Barefoot Contessa store in East Hampton, Long Island, in the space previously occupied by Dean & DeLuca. This location was significantly larger and offered a wider range of delicacies.

1996: Sale of Barefoot Contessa Store

In 1996, after two decades of running it, Ina Garten sold the Barefoot Contessa store to two employees, Amy Forst and Parker Hodges, while retaining ownership of the building. Following this, she took a one-year sabbatical.

2003: Barefoot Contessa as Film Set and Store Closure

In 2003, the Barefoot Contessa store served as a set for the film 'Something's Gotta Give'. Also in 2003, the store permanently closed due to a lease expiration and failed negotiations between Ina Garten, who still owned the building, and the new store owners.

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