About Hello there and welcome to The Little Epicurean! I’m Maryanne, the recipe developer, food stylist, and photographer behind this baking and desserts food blog. This recipe site focuses on baking, desserts, and drinks. In a nutshell, I like to create treats that make like enjoyable and sweet! What does The Little Epicurean mean? Let’s break down my moniker. “Little” because I’m just barely 5 feet tall. An “epicurean” is one devoted to the pursuit and enjoyment of good food and comfort. Put them together and that’s my name! My Culinary Background I studied at the Culinary Institute of America at Greystone in Napa Valley and the French Pastry School in Chicago. Since then, I’ve worked in a variety of restaurants, bakeries, and wedding cake shops. Even before my professional training, I spent a great deal of time in the kitchen. My parents ran and owned a restaurant in during my early childhood. Growing up, I was in charge of cooking rice every night at home. During college, I probably spent more time baking cookies than studying for final exams. I recently started a second website dedicated to Filipino food. It’s called Love, Filipino Food. About the Recipes As a classically trained pastry chef, I share from-scratch recipes using real ingredients. Recipe blog posts provide insights to the science of baking, ingredient intel, and cooking techniques. I hope to share with you the joys of baking and home cooking through approachable, reliable recipes. Each recipe shared on this blog has been tested at least three times for accuracy and success. With the growing popularity of global flavors and the accessibility of once exotic ingredients, I will share with you my knowledge of Asian cuisine. Drawing from my Filipino heritage, I periodically create recipes that highlight tropical flavors. Interested in working together? I’m available for sponsored posts, food styling and photography, recipe development, content creation, social media campaigns, product reviews and giveaways. More about Maryanne I live in the suburbs outside of Los Angeles with my husband, our son, and our two crazy pups. Born and raise in Southern California, I can’t imagine calling anywhere else home! I started The Little Epicurean in 2011 to satisfy my curious sweet tooth. I was working at a restaurant at the time. Every morning, I was in charge on making the exact same breads and desserts.The routine had me craving an outlet for creativity. The blog started as a means to share new recipes and new flavor combinations. My friends and family call me a “feeder.” I like to feed people; it’s the way I show others I care. I love you means nothing unless you back it up with a decadent chocolate cake. The same goes for apologies. Sorry is only genuine with a dozen donuts. My idea of a perfect meal includes lots of noodles and rice, followed by a multi-course dessert finale. While I am lactose-intolerant, I love cheese and I am more than willing to endure any pain and bloating for a double scoop of vanilla ice cream in a chocolate dipped waffle cone. Frequently Asked Questions I’m doing a round-up post, and I want to use your photogrpah. Is that okay? I’m honored and yes, you may! You may use ONE photo from the post as long as you link back to the original source. Please provide clear attribution to my site. Can I repost your photographs? I spend a great deal of time preparing and photographing the food on my site. If you like to use ONE photo, you may as long as you credit me and provide a link back to the original source. If you would like to use more than one photo, please email me. Can I repost your recipe? I work hard to create and develop the recipes on my site. I ask that you please rephrase the recipe directions in your own words if you plan to use it on your blog. What is your comment policy? I appreciate respectful and friendly comments. Constructive criticism is also welcome. However, because I want The Little Epicurean to be a positive and uplifting environment, I reserve the right to remove rude, offensive, or inappropriate comments. Can you review this product, host a giveaway, or blog about this event? Maybe. I only review products and events that are relevant to The Little Epicurean. Please email me to discuss the details. Contact I love hearing from readers. Feel free to email or leave a comment on a post if you have any questions. I post on Instagram frequently and I update my Facebook page often. You can also follow me on Pinterest or Bloglovin‘. For rates, media kit, or to discuss any potential projects, please email me at maryanne@thelittleepicurean.com. Please note, I do not accept unsolicited guest posts or link exchanges.