Where do I start thanking everyone who has put this book together?
Firstly, a huge thank you to my publishing director Sarah Lavelle and editor Romilly Morgan for seeing my vision for this book – I’ve loved working with you. Thank you to creative director Helen Lewis for bringing the ideas to life and Nathan Grace and Nicola Ellis getting the pages spot on! Thank you to marketing manager Laura Willis and the publicity team for your ongoing work. A heartfelt thanks to everyone at Quadrille; you’re talented, creative and a dream to work with.
Thank you to the incredible Dan Jones and his assistant Sophie Fox for the beautiful photography, what a privilege it was to work with you. Heartfelt thank you goes to Emily Ezekiel for the amazing food and prop styling and for being so fantastic to work with. Huge thanks to Becks Wilkinson and Anna Barnett for your expertise in the kitchen (even during the hottest week of 2016).
Thank you to my agent, Victoria Hobbs at A.M. Heath, for showing kindness and belief, as well as a fantastic sense of humour throughout the whole project.
To my incredible Mum and Dad, thank you for believing in me from the start. Without your support, I wouldn't have the confidence to believe in my dreams. Thank you also for letting me take over your kitchen on a regular basis and for the honest reviews of my kitchen triumphs and fails!
Thank you to my amazing sister Carolyne and wonderful brother-in-law Mark, who have shown generosity and love from day one. To my beautiful, cheeky twin nieces Tamzin and Tara, whom I love with all my heart – follow your dreams. Thank you to Auntie May for your words of encouragement.
Big love to my wonderful best friends Charlotte, Mary-Anne, Amelia and Louise. I’m so proud of your achievements, you are incredibly strong women. Thank you for your ever supportive (and amusing) friendships, cups of tea and text messages. To the best writing partner and housemate, Dudley the rabbit! Thanks for keeping me company and for all the cuddles.
Last but not least, David. I can never say thank you enough for believing in me, for all the practical help you give and for being happy to eat anything I cook, at any hour of the day or night. I love you and can’t wait for our next chapter together.
publishing director: Sarah Lavelle
creative director: Helen Lewis
junior commissioning editor:
Romilly Morgan
designers: Nathan Grace and Nicola Ellis
photographer: Dan Jones
food and props stylist: Emily Ezekiel
food stylist's assistant: Anna Barnett
production: Tom Moore, Vincent Smith