I’ve met so many wonderful people through social media, including Jillian Hillier! Jillian is a nutrition focused private chef and recipe developer who cooks for families and works with brands to create delicious recipes for their websites, social media and storefronts. More recently, she’s been partnering with local brands such as wineries and cocktail companies to host virtual culinary events! Some in-person events are in the works too! Enjoy Jillian’s story and her tips for working with brands!
- How did you get started in your business? When I was 23 I was diagnosed with Lupus and drastically changed my diet and lifestyle to help manage my illness. Although I’ve always loved cooking, I never considered it as a career until my diagnosis. It was then that I decided to leave my career in social work to go to culinary school and I never looked back!
2. What’s it like working with brands? Do they approach you or do you approach them or both? I love supporting and working with local/small brands. There is something very personal about working with smaller brands that I really love! Most brands that I work with I’ve had some sort of a relationship with prior to collaborating. I’m naturally a very chatty and outgoing person so most of my partnerships and collaborations have happened organically.
3. Where do you get your inspiration for new recipes? EVERYWHERE! Sometimes it’s as simple as finding seasonal produce at the farmer’s market. Other times my inspiration some from something I’m craving or from a dish I’ve eaten at a restaurant. I really love putting my twist on classic dishes!
4. Can you share 1-2 tips / nuggets of advice for others who would like to work with brands? Work with brands that you love. Don’t do it for the $. Do it because you love their product or service. Be authentically you and your dream partnerships will come!
