Janelawsonloves started life as an Instagram page showing photos of the food coming out of my kitchen. I realised that the experience I’d built up over the years from researching recipes, reading countless cookbooks, and making meals for family and friends could be useful for other people too. 

So I decided to write this blog with the recipes, methods and the tips and tricks I’ve learnt along the way. Sometimes, the simplest things can actually make a big difference in producing a successful, stress-free meal. I like to make tasty, healthy dishes that don't take hours to prepare, using flavours from around the world. I particularly love Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and Indian cookery, so you’ll often find my recipes inspired by these regions.

At the same time as starting my Instagram page, I launched my catering business, followed by a series of vegetarian and vegan supper clubs. It didn’t take long for me to receive requests from local cafes, film crews, and private clients, but a call from the owners of a new children’s bookshop and cafe in Leeds allowed me to establish my growing business properly. The Little Bookshop in Leeds offered me a lunchtime residency in their shop, where I could create a menu of healthy dishes under my name and have a home for my supper clubs.

I started a series of pop-up dining events last year, working with brands I love, such as Slingsby Gin, Lauden Chocolate, and local merchant Wayward Wines. The idea was to bring together great food, drinks, and music under one roof - like a mixture between a restaurant and a dinner party. I love hosting events; I spend hours creating menus, testing dishes, planning complimentary drinks, and ensuring each element of the night works together. The ultimate buzz is seeing my guests relax and have a great time.