When did you first get in to cooking and do you remember the first recipe you tried?
My mother always cooked and baked the most delicious food, and from an early age I was encourage into the kitchen to help out. I definitely remember baking a lot of fairy cakes (cupcakes to my friends across the pond!), and eating a lot of raw cake batter. I vividly remember baking my first solo cake for a group of her friends, and forgetting to add the eggs. Failure really is the best teacher!
What's your kitchen like and how do you keep organized when cooking?
Goodness me, I definitely can't claim to be organised! My kitchen is a classically tiny English 'galley kitchen'- small and narrow, and I tend to fill up all available workspace very quickly. I dream of a space big enough to bake and host properly, but until I shan't embarrass myself with a photo here.
What tips would you give to someone wanting to become a better cook?
Be kind to yourself! I think that fear and high expectation can be the biggest dream-crusher when it comes to baking, and being nervous or rushed always makes me more likely to get things wrong. Start by making something simple and rewarding, like some delicious shortbread or a comforting soup- put on some fun music, and allow yourself to enjoy the experience. The more you try, the better you'll get!
Who would you invite to your dream dinner party and what would you cook for them?
Oh my. I'd invite the entire world if I could right now! One dream I have is to raise money to host lavish dinners for guests at shelters or refuges- the full restaurant treatment. Food and cooking is a wonderful way to express love, and I think everyone deserves to enjoy the feeling of being cooked for and cared for.
Do you do any other crafts and what are your hobbies?
I'm a filmmaker by trade, so I usually have a camera or two on me. However recently I've had to go for more indoor-based pursuits, and I've been getting back into embroidery- it's so soothing and colourful, perfect for a grey winter's day.
Which cooking blogs do you love to read?
Caffeine Galore (https://www.caffeinegalore.com) is my absolute go-to for coffee info (an essential ingredient in long baking days!), and her razor-sharp insight into coffee and food culture makes for very good reading.
The other is a classic- Joe Pastry (https://joepastry.com) has been a lifeline for so many bakers struggling with pastry's finicky ways! I thin every frustrated croissant-baker has come across this blog at some point.
Cakes
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