Villa Amore with Eloise Mumford

We're especially excited about today’s post because it features someone we had the absolute joy of working with on Villa Amore —the incredibly talented, endlessly fun, and all-around wonderful human being, Eloise Mumford.

Eloise brought so much heart, humor, and sparkle to this film, and to the role of Liara, and getting to work with her was honestly one of the highlights of the whole experience. Which says a lot considering we were mostly filming in a breathtaking Villa, or at iconic sites in the heart of Rome! Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, Piazza Navona- we hit them all!

We asked Eloise a few fun questions about the film, her travel essentials, and our unforgettable time in Italy. We can’t wait for you to dive into this interview—and the movie itself! Villa Amore premieres Saturday, June 21st, at 8/7c on Hallmark and will be available to stream the next day on Hallmark Plus! We hope you have as much fun watching it as we had making it!

xx,

Jo & Kate

What drew you to the role of Liara?

I've worked with Clare (the director) before, and so the second I saw she was directing this, I knew I was very lucky to get to work with her again. And then when I read the script, I fell in love with Liara. She's brave and resilient, with a core of deep kindness. She's been through a lot, and she sometimes feels like it's too late for her to get the love she's always dreamed of. I have felt that in my bones, as I know a lot of people have. But in the end, she took a huge leap of faith and learned to trust her gut- and in that, found true belonging. I hope that in stepping into her shoes, some of her mettle will rub off on me.

What was your first reaction when you found out you'd be filming in Rome?

Pure exhalation! I hadn't been to Rome since I was a teenager, and getting to spend 5 weeks there was an absolute dream. One of the best things about being an actor is getting to pretend you're a local while filming, and getting to do that in Rome was a once in a lifetime opportunity. I feel even luckier that the team of producers and actors we were with swiftly became friends, which meant that I got to be there with a group of people I really love.

What are your tips for beating jet lag?

I once heard Taylor Swift say jet lag is a choice, and so that's my new mantra. That and getting sun on the back of my knees during the day, and forcing myself to sleep only at night. It helped too that Italy is the espresso capital of the world!

What are your travel essentials?

Slippers to make anywhere feel like home, a playlist that gets me in the local mood, lots of vintage stores and cafes and insider tips pre-saved on a map, and a reminder to myself that smiling and kindness crosses any language barrier.

What were your favorite spots in Rome during the shoot?

Palatine Hill, the Botanical Garden of Rome, Antico Forno Roscioli (best takeout), Emporio Centrale (the best best shop), and Il Mio Salumiere (the best butcher!).

What was your best meal in Italy?

My mom was with me for a lot of the filming, which was so special. She would go to the local butcher and little markets while I was at work and so I would come home at night, exhausted, to the most delightful home cooked meals of whatever local ingredients she gathered. They were not just delicious, but so, so full of love.

What would be your dream destination to film in?

Copenhagen! Or a lighthouse in Iceland.

What is your go to gelato flavor?

Chocolate

Now, for a quick game of This or that?

Rome or Paris:

I have to say Rome now because I'm emotionally attached!

Rom Com or Thriller:

Rom com, of course

Stunt double or Do it yourself:

Stunt double- they're artists for a reason!

Love Scene or Fight Scene: