In December when I said I was looking for the very first intern to join the Gourmet Gab team I was blown away by your support! So many people shared the post, and were excited to meet whoever it was going to be.

Today I get to introduce Mariah Swift, the very first Gourmet Gab intern! It has been so fun getting to know her over the last few weeks. Now it’s your turn to get to know Mariah. You’ll be hearing from her in the newsletters (Did you sign up yet?) and throughout the blog. Give her a welcome in the comments below!

Tell us about yourself! Where do you go to school, what are you studying, etc.

I’m Mariah! I’m currently a student at the University of Oregon, studying Public Relations, Food Studies & Business. I’m also working on my Massage Therapy license. In my free time, I love to exercise and be outside. The rain has finally subsided so I’m looking forward to getting out more and finding some cool hikes. 

What drew you to the Gourmet Gab internship?

I’m a pretty big foodie myself so awhile ago my friend mentioned to me that I should check out Gab’s instagram. I eventually did and loved seeing all the colorful dishes and excitement. When Gab posted about the internship, i knew it was for me. I love food, but I really loved the energy Gab gives off and figured it would be such an awesome experience for me to grow as a professional, but also with something I’m passionate about. 

Do you like to cook? What’s your love story with food?

I love to cook and I love to bake! My love story started a few years ago when I got hired at a local cafe. I started as a barista but eventually took over as a baker. I’d say that’s really where it all began for me. I was so lucky to have a boss who was always willing to let me try new things and branch out. I was able to be creative in the workplace and I think that’s what drew me in so much. Now, looking back, I can’t imagine my life without food – obviously. I love food for a lot of reasons, but more than anything, I love the way it brings people together, over dinner or over coffee and muffins.

What kind of food do you like to cook?

I really love to cook all things. Middle Eastern cuisine sparks a huge interest within me. I’m a diehard for falafels. I also love baking mostly, which is how I started. I’ve really been working hard on perfecting my bread making skills. It’s my own way of challenging myself and teaching myself patience, especially when it comes to Sourdough. 

What’s one ingredient we could always find in your kitchen and why?

Trader Joe’s 21 Seasoning Salute. I absolutely love this stuff. It has every flavor you could ever need packed into one bottle. I use it on everything from chicken to avocado toast.

Any big plans for 2017?

Yes! I’ve made it a goal for myself to visit 5 major food cities in the US this year, including Austin, TX where I’ll be jetting off to next month. I’m so looking forward to trying all the new local dishes and classics in each area. I’ve also got plans to do a dessert catering for a wedding this summer, which is a huge step for me. 

What are you hoping to accomplish with your Gourmet Gab internship?

I’m really just hoping to learn as much as I can from Gab. I’m so excited for this opportunity and can’t wait to see what Gab has to teach me and all the new opportunities for the brand. 

Do you have a favorite Gourmet Gab blog post, Snapchat or Instagram story?

My favorite is actually the first blog post I saw on Gab’s blog – Roasted Beet, Green Apple and Goat Cheese Trifle. I have this weird fascination with goat cheese on salads and I somehow felt that Gab and I must’ve had this deeper connection just based on the fact that I would literally eat this all day everyday. 

I am thrilled to welcome Mariah to the team! I’m so grateful she’s dedicating her time and talents to the blog. She’s already passed along some great ideas that you’ll see rolling out soon!

Love food. Love self. Love life.

Gabriela