Logo

In the wake of the announcement of his book, Andy explores what it takes to be an independent culinary writer and video creator along with a cook, who has already established himself as an influencer within his field. "My philosophy when it comes when it comes to making media is that it needs to contain stories, perspectives and passion, so that the content has meaning."

Websites as an experience that is carefully curated experience

Andy discovers the roots of his passion for food back to his childhood. "My parents immigrated from Iran to California from Iran in the late 1970s along with them, they brought the food traditions of their homeland," he says. "I believe that the food traditions, the flavors, techniques and my extended family having me around are the things that sparked my first love for food and cooking." He chose to go into food and cooking writing as a career because the love for food had "expanded into a profound always-growing curiosity in all things food."

"This website is designed for users who are unfamiliar about my work," Andy says. "I will ensure the people are aware of my work, and also engage with any new and existing content this site is expected to produce." Some of that new material Andy is planning to develop is the things I Love webpage. There, he gets an opportunity to highlight his top food and lifestyle brands while expanding the limits of his well-known name a bit. "While my cooking and writing have been very much part of my work since a long time," Andy says, "I will be taking on new opportunities that will be showcased on the site."

Leçons from the beginning year of an independent creator

In the past year, as he was writing and publishing the first novel of his, Andy has also been exploring how to work independently. This includes building his brand and building an environment that supports his work as a writer.

"I consider that the integrity of what I like to create and share my thoughts on food has very remains the same" Andy says, referring to his approach to the brand he has now, in contrast with his style prior to his independence. "I think my aesthetic--while it is something that has always been clear for me at an individual level, it is now visible and is a major aspect of what I do. I have more creative control now."

What is Andy's second advice to budding creators? He recommends being selective about what projects you decide to work on, whenever you can. "Take on projects and work with those who inspire your and allow you to learn something from," Andy says. "But be aware that not all projects will satisfy this--which is okay! It's important to continue growing."

Inspiring by Andy's tale? Begin building your own brand on .