Savoring the Meal (and Moment) With Jenni Kayne
The time-honored ritual of inviting loved ones to gather over lively conversation and a lovingly made meal is the highlight of any season, but one that’s particularly essential for thriving in the cold, dark months of winter. We chatted about a vibrant menu of dishes that help us slow down and truly savor the season and all that a cozy meal entails—including leaving the clean-up for later. Read on for my winter recipes as well as some tips on living a bit more mindfully.
Rip & Tan: What’s the genesis story behind Lyke Minded? How has the community grown over the years?
Ali Primrose: Lyke Minded was, is, and simply will always be a visual portrayal of my mindful California lyfestyle. When I started the account, it was just a dive (or dump) into my personal aesthetic: sharing inspiration, charcuterie boards I created, recipes, and my life. When people genuinely responded to my work and perspective, I knew I wanted to share more.
That’s where I feel this community has grown most. I no longer share for myself, I share for them. I want to motivate others to not only find creative inspiration but live it. Lyke Minded is a source of creativity with a sense of artful intentions, beautiful yet approachable scenes, and an attainable lyfestyle.
Rip & Tan: What inspired you to create your own cookbook? How does it speak to the larger spirit of the Lyke Minded community?
Ali Primrose: It wasn’t until stay-at-home orders were enforced that my love for cooking went from a passion to a safe haven. Creating vibrant meals with my husband became a ritual. It didn’t matter if I was hosting for two or ten—I wanted aesthetically pleasing, homestyle recipes that looked just as good, if not better, than a plate at a restaurant. It only felt right to turn Instagram content into something physical that can be treasured, gifted, and used as a resource for all…a cookbook! And no, I’m not talking about your run-of-the-mill, outdated cookbook. My vision was to create something that belongs sprawled open on your kitchen island…not in your pantry. A book that is an escape to aspirational tablescapes and layered courses. A book that is relatable, yet inspirational.
I really couldn’t have done it without this community. Ultimately, the feeling I got when I saw how many others recreated my recipes and enjoyed them is what inspired the idea of the Lyke Minded Cookbook. There was an alchemy that happened when everyone started to feel how fruitful it was to cook at home. The spirit of this community is so intentional. From cooking to garnishing and designing their own tables, this group of lyke minded people is supportive beyond measure and has learned the importance of mindful living.
