Jeanette Donnarumma’s career trajectory is a testament to the surprising twists life can take when you're open to new opportunities. An Emmy-award winning producer for her work on the Rachael Ray Show, Donnarumma has seamlessly transitioned from high-profile television production to establishing her roots and thriving in her local Bergen County community.
Donnarumma’s journey began in a rather unconventional manner. “I was studying biology and communications at Marymount Manhattan College when a friend suggested I intern at a brand-new talk show—Rachael Ray,” she recounts. Living just a street away from the studio, Donnarumma decided to give it a shot. “I rolled out of bed at 7:55 and made it to the studio by 8:00. I never left after that,” she says with a laugh.
Starting as an intern, Donnarumma climbed the ranks to become a supervising producer, contributing to the show’s success for 16 and a half seasons. “It was an incredible ride. We even won an Emmy together,” she says proudly. However, when the show wrapped up in the spring of 2023, Donnarumma faced a new chapter in her career and personal life.
With two young children at home, Donnarumma found herself reassessing her career path. “I was ready for a change,” she admits. “The long commute into the city and the demands of a full-time TV career were starting to take a toll.” Serendipity struck when a production company reached out with a new opportunity. “They offered me a role in Charleston for a Food Network program. It was a chance to explore a different part of the country while continuing in the media field,” she explains. And most recently taking on a new venture in digital media production in Englewood Cliffs. This move not only allows her to stay closer to home but also to immerse herself in the evolving landscape of digital media.
Now back in her beloved Bergen County, Donnarumma is not only enjoying the perks of a shorter commute but also diving into community life with enthusiasm. She and her family relocated to Ridgewood in 2016, drawn by the area's charm and excellent schools. “We saved every penny to move here because we knew it was the right place for our family,” Donnarumma says.
Her passion for community extends beyond her family life. Donnarumma runs a small catering business, Salami and Sharks Catering, where she provides meal preparation services and creates unique food displays like her popular antipasto Christmas trees. “I found that a lot of my business comes from local referrals. The community here is incredibly supportive,” she notes.
This support has been a cornerstone of her business. “The level of community engagement here is unmatched. People drop off dinners, offer to babysit, and truly care about one another,” she says. This local camaraderie has been pivotal for her business, especially as she juggles her roles as a mother and a professional.
When she's not catering or working on media projects, Donnarumma enjoys exploring Bergen County with her family. “We love the local eateries and parks. It’s the perfect blend of convenience and community spirit,” she says. Her husband, who works in Newark, also benefits from their strategic location.
In reflecting on her journey from television producer to local entrepreneur, Donnarumma is both grateful and optimistic. “It’s been a whirlwind, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. The community here has embraced me and my business in a way I never expected. It’s truly been a rewarding experience,” she concludes.
Donnarumma’s story shows how embracing change and nurturing local connections can lead to fulfilling personal and professional growth.
For more information visit jeanettedonnarumma.com.