We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Audrey Middleton. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Audrey below.
Alright, Audrey thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. How did you learn to do what you do? Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process? What skills do you think were most essential? What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?
As a chef with a rich family heritage and a burning desire to stay curious and learn, my journey in the culinary world has been truly fulfilling. Learning from my family has been an invaluable experience, as it has given me a deep understanding of our culinary traditions and the significance of each dish. The insights and techniques passed down through generations have laid a strong foundation for my culinary career. Candy making at Christmas is a sacred tradition in my family. Some of my earliest learning experiences were spent side-by-side with my mom and grandmas. At five or six years old, I started to learn the true importances of cooking for others. After working in restaurants with stellar chefs and graduating from Culinary school, I often find myself calling my mom for continued cooking advice, almost daily.
I think one of the most essential skills is my unwavering passion for cooking. Cooking is a personal experience for everyone involved. The amount of hours it takes to create that “WOW” moment dish is incredibly challenging. Having the drive to keep going and chasing those moments is my most used skill.
For obstacles, I would say lack of resources stunted my learning process in the beginning. Graduating from Culinary School gave me a great technical foundation, but until I spent hours on the line with chefs I was lost. After learning how to find the culinary outlets I wanted, I was then able to put my heart on the plate.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
During my preschool graduation, we were asked about our aspirations for the future, and without hesitation, I chose to be a chef. That early decision reflects the strong and unwavering passion I have always had for the culinary world. Even at such a young age, there was an underlying desire within me to pursue a career in the food industry.
My parents played a significant role in shaping this aspiration. My mom’s exceptional cooking skills and my dad’s craftsmanship as a woodworker and craftsman have been constant sources of inspiration and motivation. Witnessing their success and dedication in their respective fields encouraged me to follow my own path as a chef.
As a chef, I find great joy in creating menus that reflect the current seasons while also paying homage to my youth. I draw inspiration from my favorite childhood dishes, and each menu is an opportunity to retell memories through the food I serve. It brings me immense satisfaction when my guests enjoy dishes that hold a special place in my heart, like my mother’s fried pecan pie that she made every summer for many years, and still to this day.
I firmly believe that the best food I make is the food that carries personal significance and meaning to me. It is a way for me to share my history and heritage through the flavors and dishes that shaped my culinary journey.
I am grateful for the creative outlet that the culinary world provides me. At Ashford Acres Inn, my passion for cooking is not only celebrated but also encouraged. It’s a place where I can bring my vision to life and share my love for food with others.
Overall, I am driven by the desire to create meaningful culinary experiences that connect people with their memories and emotions. My journey as a chef has been shaped by my family’s influence, and I am excited to continue exploring and sharing my culinary heritage with those I serve.
Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can provide some insight – you never know who might benefit from the enlightenment.
As a creative, there are certain aspects of my journey that non-creatives may struggle to understand. One of the primary challenges they might not fully grasp is the time and dedication required to do the job well. Creativity is not just about inspiration striking at will; it involves hard work, persistence, and continuous effort to refine and perfect the craft. The creative process often involves trial and error, and it can be emotionally demanding, especially when facing creative blocks or setbacks.
In the culinary industry specifically, time plays a crucial role. Crafting unique and memorable dishes requires meticulous planning, experimentation, and attention to detail. From ideation to execution, each step takes time and thoughtfulness to ensure that the final product is exceptional.
Additionally, as a chef, I understand the significance of the farmers who supply the food I use in my creations. Connecting with local farmers and sourcing high-quality, fresh ingredients not only enhances the flavors of my dishes but also supports sustainable and ethical practices. Understanding where our food comes from and the effort put into growing it fosters a deeper appreciation for the ingredients we work with.
Honoring the products we receive is a fundamental aspect of being a chef. It involves respecting the hard work of farmers, valuing the natural resources that contribute to the ingredients, and minimizing food waste. Using these products to create dishes that showcase their inherent flavors and qualities is a form of appreciation and gratitude.
Overall, my creative journey involves more than just the artistry of cooking. It encompasses a deep understanding of time, dedication, and respect for the ingredients that go into my dishes. Embracing these values not only enriches my work as a chef but also connects me to a broader community of food producers, artisans, and individuals who share a passion for preserving and celebrating the beauty of culinary artistry. Through this understanding, I hope to inspire others to appreciate the craftsmanship and effort that goes into creative endeavors, regardless of their field or interests.
Is there mission driving your creative journey?
The driving force behind my journey is the unwavering desire to create something truly unique. This passion is fueled by numerous conversations with my boss, Annastasia Hicks, where we share our dreams and aspirations for Ashford Acres Inn. Together, we envision crafting a culinary oasis that stands out as a one-of-a-kind destination in our town.
Our vision revolves around utilizing the beautiful property at Ashford Acres Inn to curate the ultimate hospitality experience. We are dedicated to providing guests with not only exceptional accommodations but also a culinary journey that tantalizes their taste buds and leaves a lasting impression. Our goal is to create an immersive experience where the artistry of cooking, the beauty of the surroundings, and the warmth of genuine hospitality come together harmoniously.
At Ashford Acres Inn, we understand the importance of standing out in a competitive industry. We are driven to create a unique offering that sets us apart from other establishments, ensuring that our guests have an unforgettable experience like no other. Our commitment to delivering excellence and our shared passion for culinary creativity motivate us to continually push the boundaries and innovate in all aspects of our endeavor.
Ultimately, our joint vision revolves around creating a place where guests can escape from the ordinary and immerse themselves in a world of culinary delights, comfort, and joy. We strive to make Ashford Acres Inn a place that people yearn to return to, where they can savor the beauty of each moment and leave with cherished memories that will stay with them for a lifetime. Together, we are committed to making our dream of a unique and enchanting culinary oasis a reality.
Contact Info:
- Website: ashfordacresinn.com
- Instagram: @ashfordacresinn
- Facebook: Ashford Acres Inn
Image Credits
Madison Simpson