Author: Valerie

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.