How Giada De Laurentiis Is Adjusting to Her Daughter’s Move

Giada De Laurentiis is cherishing her last summer with her daughter Jade before the soon-to-be 18-year-old embarks on a new journey in college.

“Honestly, I have both really sad days and really happy days,” De Laurentiis, 55, shared exclusively with Us Weekly while promoting her collaboration with Peroni Nastro Azzurro. “I’ve spent much of my summer with her because I’m trying to savor every moment. There’s a part of me that realizes this is an exciting new phase for us both, but it’s also bittersweet knowing that two decades of motherhood is coming to an end.”

For the bestselling cookbook author, it feels like just yesterday when she welcomed her daughter with ex-husband Todd Thompson in 2008. Now, she’s getting ready to send Jade off to NYU in New York City.

“Yes, she can call me, but it’s a lot farther away [than California],” De Laurentiis noted. “It’s manageable, but people often overlook how this affects you, especially as a mother. It feels almost like your purpose has been fulfilled. It’s a bit strange.”

The founder of Giadzy believes parents in her position need time to “mourn” a little. Although distractions help, De Laurentiis admitted, “I have my moments.”

“Just this 4th of July, there were moments when I felt really sad,” she reflected. “I looked at her and thought, ‘Oh my God. I may not get to have these moments again.’ She’s likely going to have a boyfriend and make new friends and be off on her own.”

After discussing her feelings with other parents, De Laurentiis finds comfort in knowing she’s not alone and that her emotions are completely normal.

“Many moms have mentioned it’s a bit like having your first child,” she shared. “It’s a shock to the system. … A lot of people have said it’s just another chapter. You need to see it as more freedom for both of you.”

Before De Laurentiis bids farewell to her daughter outside her dorm, she’s set to bring a taste of Italian culture to the States with Peroni Portals, a new coast-to-coast pop-up inspired by Italy’s charming wine windows.

Launching in New York City on Friday, July 24, the experience aims to embrace the Italian tradition of aperitivo, inviting guests to slow down, connect with friends, and enjoy an ice-cold Peroni alongside a unique Pane di Peroni focaccia crafted by De Laurentiis.

“It’s a wonderful opportunity to foster community,” the restaurateur told Us. “We’re going to serve slices of focaccia with an ice-cold Peroni from this wine window, and I think it’s delightful and educational for people to experience Italian culture without traveling to Italy. That’s what Peroni and I excel at in our collaborations.”

Check to see if Peroni Portals are making their way to your hometown online now.