ABOUT ME

Hi friends! I’m Laura, a food blogger, food photographer, and recipe developer based in San Diego, California. I love creating and sharing seasonal, relaxed recipes for busy home cooks!

Growing Up Cali

Growing Up Cali is a food blog that features beautiful, easy-to-make sweet and savory dishes featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients. My mouthwatering recipes might look fancy but they are super easy to cook!

My Story

I began my career as a print journalist (covering politics), and I have worked for publications in New York City, Washington, D.C., and California.

These days I live just steps from the Pacific Ocean in Southern California with my husband, two daughters, and two rescue cats. I work as a food and lifestyle photographer, recipe developer, and blogger.

My focus is on seasonal, healthy(ish) food that I can cook without killing myself in the process. And the only recipes I include on the site are ones I actually use and like. The same goes for my tips on travel, entertainment, and lifestyle. The products and places I write about, I’ve actually tried and liked.

Planter's Punch Rum Cocktail
Panettone Bread Pudding
Healthy Piña Colada Smoothie Bowls

Let’s Keep in Touch!

I love hearing from you! If you make a recipe, please leave me a comment! And you can also email me here. Also, make sure to follow me on Instagram and Pinterest. And sign up for the newsletter to get all the latest updates.

Want to Work Together?

I love to collaborate! Here are some of the services I offer:

  • Brand and Recipe Photography and Videos
  • Blogger Re-Shoots
  • Recipe Development
  • Sponsored Blog and Social Media Content

To contact me or request a copy of my media kit, email me here.

Just a heads up! I do work with a few affiliate programs including Liketoknow.it, Amazon, and Foodtography School. If you click on one of the links in my posts, I may get a small commission — at no cost to you!  But all the ideas and opinions I express are always, always all my own.