Today we’d like to introduce you to Amy Portnoy.
Hi Amy, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
My Story
If you had told me a few years ago that I’d be teaching Canasta, creating content for social media, filming videos, and turning a classic card game into a lifestyle brand… I probably would’ve laughed and asked you if had been drinking!
But here I am—shuffling, teaching, laughing, and loving every minute of it. I’m Amy Portnoy, the voice behind Canasta Guide 305, and this is how it all happened.
I was born in Michigan, raised in a big, lively family, and eventually made my way to Miami to earn my Master’s in Social Work. Helping others has always been at the core of who I am.
Life moved fast. I got married, had four incredible kids, and threw myself into domestic life. I was that mom—snacks packed, Uber driver (before Uber existed!), short-order chef, referee, homework tutor, and full-time house manager. It was a beautiful, chaotic chapter.
Then, as life does, it shifted. I went through a divorce, went back to work, and slowly found my footing again. I rebuilt. I reimagined. And I eventually found love again—with Barry, my husband and partner in everything from boating to traveling.
The kids grew up and flew the nest, the house got quieter, and for the first time in decades… I had time. (Well—except for Louie, our fluffy little Bichon-shitzu mix who fully believes he runs the house.)
But I wasn’t on a mission to “find myself.” I already knew who I was. I simply had the freedom to enjoy. I filled my days with all the things I love: traveling, skiing, playing tennis and padel, running half marathons, learning Spanish, boating with friends, and—of course—trying every vodka martini in Miami (blue cheese olives, always). I spent more time with the people I love.
Then, one afternoon, my sister casually said, “Want me to teach you Canasta?”
And that was it.
A stack of cards. A lot of laughter. And from the very first game, I was completely hooked. The strategy, the rhythm, the social energy—it was everything.
I realized this wasn’t just a game—it was an experience. A way to connect. But there was one small problem: I couldn’t find anyone under 80 to play with. Just my mom and her friends.
So I did what any passionate, slightly obsessed, detail-loving Miami girl would do: I got certified as a Canasta instructor.
What started as a hobby quickly became a calling.
I taught my daughters, my best friends, my husband, anyone who would sit at the table. I talked about it constantly.
I noticed there was almost no social media presence bringing Canasta to a younger, modern crowd. The visuals were outdated. The vibe was all wrong. So I created what I couldn’t find.
That’s how Canasta Guide 305 was born.
Now, I teach the game both online and in person. I create fun, cheeky content to help new players feel confident—from basic rules to strategy to etiquette (plus the occasional Louie cameo, of course). I’ve built a vibrant community of women—of all ages—who are rediscovering the joy of play, connection, and friendly competition.
Some of my favorite afternoons involve a deck of cards, a few girlfriends, great conversation, and really good snacks.
I never set out to become the face of modern Canasta. But I’ve always believed in doing life with heart—and a little sparkle. When my kids were young and I’d use a great product, I’d always think, “Why didn’t I think of that?” So this time… I did.
If you’re Canasta-curious, come sit at my table. I’ll teach you the ropes, deal you in, and probably make you laugh in the process.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Omg NO!! My biggest challenge is entering a digital world at my age!
I’ll be the first to admit—diving into the world of content creation at 51 yrs has come with a steep learning curve. I didn’t grow up with social media, cameras, or the idea of “building a brand.” I barely knew how to open an Instagram account, let alone film myself, edit videos, or figure out lighting and microphones. I’m not exactly what you’d call tech-savvy (I still fumble through Excel). All I really knew was how to play Canasta. So yes—sometimes I come across a little quirky, a little cheesy… but that’s just me. The truth is, it’s intimidating trying to stand out in a digital world thats built for young people.. But I believe in what I’m sharing. My challenge has been figuring out how to present this beautiful game in a way that’s modern, fun, and easy to follow—and I’m figuring it out.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m the founder of Canasta Guide 305, a lifestyle brand and teaching platform that brings a fresh, modern twist to the classic card game of Canasta. I specialize in teaching Modern American Canasta in a way that’s clear, stylish, and—most importantly—fun. I work with players of all levels through in-person lessons, virtual classes, and content across Instagram and YouTube, breaking down the game with humor, warmth, and strategy you can actually use. My goal is to make Canasta feel approachable and exciting, whether you’re a total beginner or you grew up watching your grandma play.
What sets me apart is that I’m not just teaching a game—I’m building a community. I blend my background in social work, my love of connection, and my very real experience of starting over at 51 to create something totally relatable. I’m not a polished influencer or a tech tech savy—I’m most proud of being a mom of four and creating something new in my 50’s.
I’m also proud hearing from women—some who haven’t picked up a deck of cards in decades, and others who are just starting out—who tell me that Canasta has reconnected them with their friends, with their moms, with their own sense of joy and confidence. I’m showing people that Canasta isn’t outdated—it’s having a glow-up.
What sort of changes are you expecting over the next 5-10 years?
I see a huge opportunity for growth in the world of social, skill-based games like Canasta—especially among younger generations who are craving real connection in an increasingly digital world. Over the next 5 to 10 years, I believe we’ll see a major shift in how traditional games are reimagined, repackaged, and brought back to life through modern branding, lifestyle content, and online accessibility. Canasta in particular is perfectly positioned for a renaissance—it’s strategic, social, screen-free, and incredibly satisfying once you learn the ropes.
I also think we’ll see more crossover between gaming and lifestyle, where people are drawn in not just for the game itself, but for the culture around it— And as more creators and educators emerge in this space, the way the game is taught, shared, and played will evolve, too—more short-form video lessons, more virtual games, and more stylish, user-friendly content.
My hope is that *Canasta Guide 305* continues to be part of that movement—
Pricing:
- pricing is packaging and hourly
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/canastaguide305
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/canastaguide305/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CanastaGuide305
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@canastaguide305
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@canastaguide305
