Life & Work with Melnificent™
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I feel like life itself is not a smooth road, but we need the bumps and bruises in order to learn about ourselves, heal and evolve. I would say my biggest struggles along the way was actually taking that leap of faith and working for myself. I felt like because I sometimes didn’t have all the answers that I should wait until it was “the perfect time.” There is never the “perfect time” in life, you have to just do it and do it scared. Your blessing is on the other side of fear. So, I learned in every way I good, got advice, and found a mentor!
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a private chef and owner of a restaurant pop-up. When I started my culinary journey full-time everyone knew me for my gourmet and traditional style chicken wings, but I have pulled the blanket completely off and showcasing all of my culinary skills. As a chef, we absolutely hate to be asked what we specialize in, as a chef we have a variety of skills and good at a lot of things. I would say the main thing that sets me apart from other chefs is I am authentically me and pack my dishes with love! Whether I’m cooking for a celebrity or your everyday civilian, you are going to receive the best of me 1 million percent. I’m this bubbly southern chef, focused, laughing, and dancing in the kitchen with a good playlist.
Are there any books, apps, podcasts, or blogs that help you do your best?
There are so many useful and free resources that I have taken advantage of to help shape my skillset. I love culinary historian books and documentaries. I am a nerd for that and absorb as much as I can when available. I also love to spend a day in the library and just go through cookbook after cookbook from all cultures. And of course, YouTube is like a free culinary school.
Link to Article: http://voyagela.com/interview/life-work-with-melissa-cottingham-of-los-angeles-ca/