Today we’d like to introduce you to Marcela Valladolid.
Marcela, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I studied the culinary arts in Los Angeles and, on graduation, became a Food Editor at Bon Appetit magazine at 19 years old. My original plan was to become an architect and still lean very much towards interior design and apply that to my food/entertaining but have always loved my career in food. My first national break was on The Apprentice; Martha Stewart. That lead to my first book, Fresh Mexico and my first show on the Food Network, Mexican Made Easy. It’s been an incredible ride ever since. I’ve cooked at the White House, twice! I’ve been nominated for an Emmy. I’ve taped hundreds of television shows and am in the process of publishing my 4th book. The goal and inspiration have always been to show Mexico in its true light. TO show the vibrancy and magic and break stereotypes not only in food but in culture. I think that’s why I’ve been so fortunate to keep growing in this field and career because the goal has always been the same. The purpose has always been the same. The intention has always been the same.
Has it been a smooth road?
Honestly, it’s been pretty steady. Very fulfilling. A lot of hard work but, at the same time, my team and I have always had the same goal; celebrate Mexico! I’ve had always been surrounded by strong, independent and very creative women. My mom, my aunts, my sister and the women that have been a part of my work throughout the years. I look for these women and are drawn to them. In the difficult times, when it was just me and Fau and I needed support, it was always them that extended a helping hand. They were the ones that offered support and inspiration for me to keep pushing forward. I can’t say it’s been easy but I’ve certainly developed, through the years, this ability to just go with the flow and be grateful for everything that happens because there’s a blessing even in what may seem like the worst situation. Every time a cycle ends, a better one begins. If I just sit still, the opportunities just keep coming so I just enjoy the ride and share it with those around me.
Please tell us more about your work, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
I’m a chef, author, TV personality, mom, all-around fun person (I hope). I specialize in showing people how incredibly cool Mexico is. That we are much more than the stereotype. That not only the food but the culture and the people are so vibrant and beautiful. I’m known for creating content and recipes that highlight our culture. What I’m most proud of is having the platform to inspire other folks with my similar background to feel proud of their heritage, traditions, and culture. To speak their language. To pass on these things to their children. That’s the biggest gift I’ve received from this wonderful journey. Pride is contagious and I’m seriously ill with pride.
Do you have a lesson or advice you’d like to share with young women just starting out?
Be you. If you’re you, there’s no competition. It took me a lot to get to that authentic version of myself so I know it’s much easier said than done. It not only takes courage but it takes time and effort to jump inwards and see who you really are, what your values are, what your gifts are and what you are willing to share. I also think it involves taking the time to do the research of where you come from. Your roots. Your story. If there’s no pride there, then take the time to figure out what the issues are there and try and resolve them because we all need to be at peace and have that solid foundation so we can build. Know who you are, what you stand for and what makes you unique!
Contact Info:
- Website: CasaMarcela.com
- Instagram: ChefMarcela
- Facebook: ChefMarcela
- Twitter: ChefMarcela
Image Credit:
Isabella Martinez-Funcke
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