I was born and raised in the Inland Empire by my mother who struggled to raise three children on her own.  One of my fondest memories is how she could always come up with something warm and fresh to eat by going through the pantry and grabbing what was on hand.  I guess I would have to say my first experience with cooking was with my grandmother who lived with us off and on through my childhood. She loved to bake yeast breads and rolls and she had such a knack. She was a wonderful cook and baker. She always encouraged me to join her in the kitchen and when I reached Junior High and High School, she recommended I enroll in not only business classes, such as typing and shorthand, but home economics as well.

   I moved to Texas in 1981 and I learned what "southern comfort" was all about.  I continued with cooking, but only for fun, and nothing fancy.   I had become an excellent typist, which landed me a job as a Human Resources Assistant for a chain food store.  I then transferred back to California and continued to work in Human Resources.  I have had a love of cooking and trying new recipes ever since. After working in Hemet as the Human Resources Director with a very experienced Chef, he truly enhanced my love of cooking and knowledge.  He also gave me tips that inspired me to develop my skills with more gourmet meals and opened up a passion I didn't realize existed.

   My education background had always been in business and human resources management.  I have taken cooking classes at various places, but had always dreamed of going to Culinary School. So, I enrolled in Laguna Culinary Arts and having enjoyed the experience tremendously, I want to share with you my love of food and cooking through an elegant dining experience.    

   I have been inspired and influenced by many including my husband, Steve, who will always let me try out anything on him and is very encouraging and supportive; my mom, who still, to this day, can make something amazing out of nothing.  She is a great hometown cook and was lucky to have acquired my grandmother's baking skills.  Cooking mentors include Thomas Keller (The French Laundry), The Barefoot Contessa and I love to watch "Pairing with Andrea" on "Fine Living."

   I currently live in Redlands with my husband, Steve and our daughter, Megan.  We have a son in the military, currently stationed at Ft. Lewis, Washington where he, his wife, and my two grand-daughters live.

   This is truly an exciting time for me and I look forward to enhancing your knowledge and love of food, cooking and entertaining.

Cheers!

Jeannine