ABOUT US
We are a hybrid recipe blog where flavor and style intersect.
Our mission is to introduce you to the art of entertaining while providing some “creative assistance” along the way. Our recipes are sources from an extensive collection rich in flavor and inspired by love.

Meet Our Team

My favorite things are cooking with family and friends, the beach and Christmas.
Hi! My name is Valerie …
– also known as mom, mama ‘D’ and Gigi.
Welcome to Food with Finesse, my little nook of the internet! I created this space to share my favorite recipes, knowledge of blending flavors, serving styles, techniques, and short-cuts.
My culinary journey is rooted deep within my childhood. Beginning at the age of eleven, my working mother would teach me how to prepare the night’s dinner over the phone after school…and voilà, my passion for cooking was born!
Today I continue to nurture my culinary interests in collecting and creating recipes, styling food and tables, learning new tricks and techniques, and uncovering time-saving kitchen tools. All inspired by cherished family recipes, favorite restaurants and travels.
I am Midwest made – where I was born, raised and reside with my husband as empty nesters with our crazy cat Thor.

I love to try new recipes – especially traditional recipes with a twist.
Hi! My name is Kathy …
I am thrilled to join my dear friend Valerie on this culinary adventure!
The first time I prepared dinner was a recipe from the closest thing to a blog in the 70’s. Our local newspaper offered a summer series of recipes for children to make family dinners. My mom supervised as I made a fried chicken dinner for our family. One summer experience has impacted the rest of my life in the kitchen.
Today, I always prefer cooking with company – even if it is my loved ones sitting with me as I prepare our meal. We learn so much about each other in the kitchen – from family traditions, food allergies, favorite kitchen tools and how we celebrate important dates on our calendars!
I am Midwest made – same as Valerie! Surrounded by family, friends and our guinea pig Peanut.