Hello there! My name is Nicole, but all of my friends and family call me Coley. You should too! Im a personal chef turned food blogger, writer, photographer and TV host, best known for being second runner up on a little show called Food Network Star (Season 10, 2014). I created my blog and YouTube channel, Coley Cooks, a little over a year ago to share my recipes, stories and goofy, fun loving personality with the world.
My blog focuses on fresh, seasonal recipes in both traditional and video format, as well as anecdotes about my garden, travels, and life at the Jersey shore (spoiler alert: it’s nothing like the TV show). In addition to the healthy stuff, I also feature my favorite regional and family recipes, as well as the sinful treats I crave (I have verrrrry sweet teeth). I believe life is all about balance, and you should eat food that makes you feel good. Some foods nourish the body, while others feed the soul.
Prior to starting my personal chef business, The Dinner Belle, I studied broadcast journalism and worked as a (not very good) model. I currently host a show called The Chef’s Kitchen that airs on the Comcast Network in the greater Philadelphia area, and I make regular appearances on QVC as the National Brand Ambassador for Australis Barramundi Sustainable Sea Bass.
I’m an advocate for sustainable food systems, especially as they relate to seafood and gardening. I grew up in a commercial fishing family in the Garden State, and as a result, sustainable seafood and growing my own fruits and vegetables are two things I’m very passionate about. I love teaching people how to cook and garden, and it's my goal to inspire people to be fearless, both in the kitchen and in life.
When I saw this challenge I couldn’t wait to apply! I've started my mornings with the Today show for as long as I can remember, and doing a live cooking demonstration is up there at the tippy top my bucket list.
I hope you guys think I'm fun and cool and smart and witty and hip and enough to come hang at 30 rock and cook up some killer grub for the gang. I also think I could have one hell of a time with KLG and Hodawoman (my spirit animal).
...Just saying.
Thank you!! :)
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