Barbara Bellesi Zito Barbara Bellesi Zito is a freelance writer from Staten Island, NY with more than 18 years of experience covering home and lifestyle topics for a variety of publications.Highlights:Has been published in Better Homes & Gardens, Martha Stewart Living, Forbes Advisor, and Apartment Therapy.Graduated from Emerson College with a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing and from Wagner College with a Bachelor of Arts in English and Theatre.Her debut novel will be published in 2023. Education Graduated from Emerson College with a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing and from Wagner College with a Bachelor of Arts in English and Theatre. About Real Simple Real Simple, a Dotdash Meredith Brand, is an award-winning, trusted online resource for smart, authentic solutions to simplify your life. We reach 11 million readers a month. Our content is written by experienced journalists and fact-checked for accuracy. Learn more about us and our editorial guidelines.