About Me

A childhood full of Star Trek, Tolkien, mandala energy work and open discussion surrounding all things philosophy, religion and language (not to mention the neurologically inborn superpower to taste words) has given me a lifelong love of exploring feelings and thoughts through myriad media. I've spent the last decade and a half as a professional chef, mother, tea industry specialist and evolving adult in the metropolitan Pacific Northwest.

I have a universe of interests and passions to share, but at this moment feel most drawn to the exploration of death and our relationships with it, as well as fiction and why imagination is necessary for our health and happiness.

I've started dabbling in writing fiction myself recently, and have thrown myself into reading for pleasure for the first time in years. I have also experienced a calling to death midwifery. This is a new field for me and I look very much forward to exploring opportunities to advocate for the dying and their loved ones.

I've worn many hats, professionally speaking. I have taught dance, vocal performance, high school french, cooking classes and etiquette. I've worked every conceivable position in the Seattle restaurant scene, from bussing tables to general management. Most of my time now is taken up by my thriving tea company, Friday Afternoon, which boasts over a decade of selling online in addition to our flagship cafe and store in Seattle (est. 2017). The tea industry has been my great love since I was 17 years old and I am thrilled to be a leader in west coast specialty tea.

Despite my busy work and home lives, I actually teach now more than ever! Garden clubs, universities, offices and more book me to speak on topics ranging from ethical agriculture practices to small business administration and digital marketing, to the medicinal benefits of various botanical ingredients. I also lead hands-on tea blending workshops, blend unique teas for any occasion and blog recipes for tea-infused cocktails and baked goods!

To hire me for speaking or education engagements, please email through the contact form.

One of my favorite games is the question: “if you were any dog breed (or mix of breeds), what would you be?”

I’m convinced I’d be an even split of Border Collie and Golden Retriever. While I’m for sure super neurotic and laser-focused on work, the underlying motivation of everything I do is to show love for everyone I know. It‘s too easy to feel sheepish about caring so much and being so friendship-motivated, but my lil care bear heart is proud to be this squishy and love-oriented.

What I’m saying is you are great and I want you to feel happy and valued and seen. The world is glowier because you are in it.