Name: Jennifer Emilson
Blog name: The Lemon Apron
Where were you born? Kitchener, Ontario
Where are you living now? Toronto, Ontario
Why did you start your blog?
Through the years my enthusiasm for cooking and creating became more and more contagious. Friends kept asking for the recipes, and I was happy to share. Instagram brought new 'friends' from all over the world who would also ask if I'd share the recipes for the meals I created and posted. This response gave me the courage to share in a more permanent way!
How did you decide on your blog name?
My first apron had lemons on it! A favourite fruit and flavour, it's fresh, bright, versatile, and yellow is just a happy colour!
What do you blog about?
Recipe ideas are constantly swirling in my head, so I have to get them out. When they pass the test of my husband, I share. Along with these, I'm trying really hard to pay tribute to my German heritage. Before my mom passed away, I endeavoured to capture all the amazing recipes in her head so that they would live on. So I'm sharing the food of my childhood as well. And of course, wherever I can, I share all my favourite shopping destinations here in Toronto.
What post on your blog most encapsulates you and why?
It would have to be my German Marble Cake post. It includes humour, my creative path, and interaction with my mom. It is truly a post dedicated to her memory.
Which post do you wish received more love and why?
Probably my Eggnog Cinnamon Rolls with Walnuts and Coffee post. The flavour and texture are sublime, and the fact that there is no proofing of the dough to wait for, they come together so quickly. I wish people would try it and find out how easy and flavourful they are! My hubby adores them!
Which post’s success surprised you and why?
The Mocha Chia Pudding! I was just coming up with something different for breakfast. It was yummy. I thought I'd share it on Instagram. It got reposted several times, and next thing I knew I had to get the recipe posted. But it wasn't something I had laboured over or really thought would have any impact. But it did! It's a Pinterest darling!
What’s your biggest challenge as a blogger?
Having an art background, I know how I want a photograph to look. But execution is my constant challenge. I'm in a condo with fickle lighting and not a lot of space. So it's just me and my iPhone 6 trying to produce photos that will do the food justice.
Share a couple of your favourite food blogs to read. Why do you like them?
You know, I will gladly visit any blog that has a compelling recipe. But there are a few that sing to me for different reasons. Three Little Halves is an artist, photographer and foodie. Her European background and family are celebrated in her recipes, and her writing style is quirky and poetic. The artist in me is drawn to her style and content, and her shared memories remind me of my own childhood.
I also enjoy visiting Tara O'Brady over at Seven Spoons. She weaves her family and culture seamlessly into her posts, and her recipes are so approachable. Her cookbook is kept near the top of my constantly growing collection.
Favourite food - care to share a recipe or a restaurant destination?
We both love all Middle Eastern, Persian cuisines, as well as Moroccan and Greek. On my blog, my Lamb Biryani recipe would be a great representation.
To eat out, the creative and flavourful Greek menu and brilliant atmosphere of Mamakas Taverna here in Toronto is a winner.
What are you working on next for your blog?
I've been having fun using Samphire or Sea Asparagus lately. I discovered it here in Toronto at St. Lawrence Market a while back. It's a sustainable succulent, jam-packed with vitamins and nutrients. More people need to hear about this. So I've made it my personal challenge to develop recipes using this briny green twig!
What else should we know about you that may or not be in your “About Me” page?
I come from a family of travellers- itchy feet is in my blood! I've been able to visit many varied lands and rich cultures, gleaning ideas along the way. And all along the way, I would wait on tables to make ends meet. What better way to interact with the locals, eat unique foods, and glean tricks from chefs in their kitchens! And after all is said and done, we see ourselves on a working farm one day, chickens, sheep, goats, horses, my hubby making cheese, and me spinning yarn and knitting.
What makes your blog unique?
I hope in part, humour! And that I love to try new things, and will encourage healthy eating. I do sneak in a few indulgences here and there.
What part of the FBC site do you find most useful?
On the FBC site, the Blogger Resources has proved invaluable. I'm a young blog, and am truly still learning the ropes.
I have to be honest, I'm a little overwhelmed by all the social media. There just isn't enough time to tap into them all. I feel that the FBC Instagram and Pinterest sites are the easiest for me since they are moments captured in time that I can digest and utilize the most productively. And I get to see what the rest of Canada is cooking!
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Such a lovely article. We love the simple but detailed quality of your photos, and only using an iPhone 6?! So stunning. Ps. Tara O’Brady is one of our favourite bloggers as well.
Congratulations,
Philip and Mystique
http://www.chefsouschef.com
there are some FBC members who do amazing things on Instagram with rather old cameras. Another one to check out is SweetSugarBean! And all the FBC photos (that’s aren’t re-grams) are taken with two iPhone 5s cameras!
Hi Melissa and Ethan! Thanks so much for the feature and including me in such a creative and passionate group of bloggers! Have a fab weekend!
You’re welcome! we’re so glad you’re part of our community!