Ask Me Anything
Ask Me Anything
Last week on Instagram and through my newsletter, I invited you to ask me anything. Thank you for asking wonderful questions! I have answered them below and on Instagram here. I sincerely wish to be a resource for you at any time. If you have a future question, no matter how big or small, please ask away.
When is your cookbook being released?
My cookbook, The Wiley Canning Company Cookbook, will be released in Spring ’23. When I first began writing my book, my publisher and I planned to release it in Spring ’22. We fully believed this was possible, and we moved forward with excitement, optimism, and discipline. Our timeline has changed, and it is truly for the best. Next week, I will share a detailed essay about why this has changed. Mostly, this essay will explore my relationship with flexibility, the lessons I learned as a first-time parent who deeply values her career, and the mindset needed to climb a single step when the ladder itself feels too tall.
Where can I buy your cookbook?
When my cookbook is released, you will be able to purchase it at select independent bookstores and international retailers. I will publish a list of bookstores and retailers once we have concrete knowledge about this. I will also have signed copies available to purchase here on our website and at all in-person events. (Is this real life? I’m so excited!)
Who is your publisher?
I’m thrilled and honored to work with Blue Hills Press, a Nashville-based publisher. I cannot speak highly enough of Matthew Teague of Blue Hills Press. He wishes the very best for his writers, and this is evidenced by the way he treats our creativity, work, and day-to-day juggle.
Are you teaching workshops this year?
Absolutely! Wiley Workshops fill me to the brim! New workshops will re-open this summer. (You can schedule a private lesson at any time.) My newsletter subscribers will be the first to know about new workshops. If you haven’t already, I invite you to join my newsletter community at the bottom of this page. Every Friday, I personally write and send a weekly newsletter, and it is where I first share news about The WCC Cookbook, Wiley Recipes, Wiley Workshops, and more.
Jams include so much sugar! Is there a way to make them with less sugar?
Yes! In this case, a question about sugar is a question about science. Sugar is not only an important flavor element, but it is also an important scientific element. You can indeed decrease the amount of added sugar, but you must compensate for this decrease in another key way.
Can I buy your canned goods somewhere?
One day soon! We do not currently have canned goods for sale, but a curated line is in our future. I would love to create a small line of canned, pickled, and preserved fruits and vegetables to sell at farmers’ markets and local grocery stores.
What is inspiring you lately?
The opening of farmers’ markets! I am so excited it’s farmers’ market season here in Nashville. Sullivan and I had a blast at Richland Park Farmers’ Market last weekend. We will be there again tomorrow, and we will be at 12 South Farmers’ Market this Tuesday evening. I love the energy of farmers’ markets. I know each person there shares an important value with me: a value of sourcing food from nearby growers. The energy feels similar to that of a half-marathon or marathon. When I’m in my corral at the starting line, I know each person there shares an important value with me: a value of physical movement and endurance. It is an indescribable feeling of togetherness and commitment.
I am also very inspired by Christiana of Christiana’s Preserves. I consulted her this week about upcoming goals for Wiley Canning Company, and I was blown away from her huge wealth of knowledge. Christiana is also incredibly supportive, hard working, and generous.
What is your love language? How does that show up in friendships and marriage?
Words of affirmation! Hearing an encouraging observation, receiving a thoughtful text, or reading a handwritten card makes me feel so loved and valued. Words sustain me.
What hair products to you use?
I have no hair secrets or fancy routines. In fact, I may treat my hair in a way that directly contradicts mainstream advice. I wash and condition my hair every day, and I use Herbal Essences® shampoo and conditioner most of the time. (If I’m not using Herbal Essences®, I’m using an alternative inexpensive brand.) One way I intentionally keep my hair healthy is I rarely use a hair dryer.