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Following the recent launch of his first cookbook Andy explores the concept of being an individual culinary writer and video creator, and--of course--cook, who's already established himself as an influencer within his field. "My philosophy when it comes to creating content is that it should contain stories, perspectives and a sense of passion to ensure that the content has meaning."

Websites as an experience that is carefully curated experience

Andy traced the origins of his love of food back to his childhood. "My parents came to California from Iran in the late '70s And with them they brought with them the culinary traditions of their homeland," he says. "I believe that the food traditions, the flavors, techniques that my extended family was always having me around are what instilled my initial deep desire for food and cooking." He chose to focus on cooking and writing for a profession because this love "expanded to an intense and ever-changing curiosity for everything food related."

"This site is both for users who are who aren't familiar with my work" Andy says. "I want to make sure users are aware of my background, but as well, they can engage with the any new and existing content this site is expected to produce." Some of that fresh content Andy would like to produce includes his Things I Enjoy webpage. The site gives him an opportunity to highlight his top food and lifestyle brands while expanding the limits of his well-known name a bit. "While my cooking and writing are a major part of my career for a while now," Andy says, "I will be taking on new opportunities that will be showcased on the site."

The lessons learned from the very first year as an author

The past few years, in addition to writing and publishing the first novel of his, Andy has been looking into the ins and outs of working on his own. It's about continuing to develop his personal brand, and developing an environment that supports his work as a writer.

"I believe that my conviction in the way I prepare and publish about food have remains the same" Andy says, referring to his style of working with his brand now, compared with his style before he became independent. "I believe my style--while it was something that was very obvious for me at a personal level--now can be up front and a big element of my work. I have more creative control now."

Andy's advice to aspiring creators? He recommends being selective about which projects you want to work on, whenever possible. "Take on projects and work alongside people who will motivate you as well as gain something about," Andy says. "But also know that not all projects will fulfill this requirement, and that's okay! It's important to continue moving forward."

Are you inspired by Andy's tale? Create your own personal image by following Andy's story .