What Inspires My Culinary Creations
Food has always been more than just sustenance to me—it’s a way to tell stories, evoke emotions, and create lasting memories. At Copper & Thyme, every dish I craft is infused with inspiration drawn from a variety of sources, each shaping the way I approach flavor, technique, and presentation.
Global Flavors and Travel
Growing up, I had the incredible opportunity to live in China, an experience that sparked my deep appreciation for global flavors. Traveling around China and other countries in Asia allowed me to immerse myself in a diverse array of cuisines. I was exposed to a world of tastes and traditions at a young age, and this love for exploring different cuisines has only grown stronger over the years. Whether it’s bringing the warmth of Moroccan tagines to a cozy winter meal or infusing a fresh summer dish with the bright flavors, spices, or herbs, my travels—both past and present—continue to inspire my cooking in exciting and unexpected ways.
Gin and beet cured salmon in Edinburgh, Scotland
Seasonality and Fresh Ingredients
There’s something magical about cooking with ingredients at their peak. Each season brings new colors, textures, and flavors to explore. From the vibrant berries of summer to the hearty root vegetables of winter, I let nature guide my menus when possible. Visiting Charlotte’s local farmers’ markets is one of my favorite ways to spark creativity—discovering just-harvested produce and chatting with farmers about what’s in season always leads to exciting new dishes. I also love exploring local specialty and international food stores, where I often find unique ingredients and products that inspire me to experiment with new flavors and techniques in the kitchen.
Grilled flatbread topped with La Cremerie Crue herb spread, grilled vegetables, and microgreens made for the Cotswold Farmer’s Market by Copper & Thyme
Client Stories and Personal Connections
One of the most fulfilling parts of being a personal chef is creating meals that are deeply meaningful to my clients. Whether it’s recreating a childhood favorite with a refined twist, crafting a dish inspired by a client’s travels, or accommodating dietary needs in a way that never sacrifices flavor, I draw immense inspiration from the people I cook for. Cooking is personal, and I strive to create experiences that feel both familiar and exciting.
Nostalgia and Family Traditions
Some of the best dishes are rooted in nostalgia. I often find inspiration in family recipes, childhood memories, and traditional comfort foods. Some of my favorite memories are of spending time with my extended family around the table at my grandparent’s house and then later on with the same family as adults during the holidays. Reimagining classic dishes with modern techniques or fresh, local ingredients allows me to pay homage to the past while making something new. Food has a way of bringing people together, and I love using my culinary creations to spark connection and conversation.
A Never-Ending Culinary Journey
Inspiration is everywhere—in the ingredients I find, the places I visit, the people I cook for, and the memories I cherish. Cooking is a journey, and I’m constantly learning, evolving, and pushing myself to create something new and exciting. I look forward to sharing that journey with you here on the Copper & Thyme blog.
