Hi, I’m Nicole — the cook behind Creative Dinner Ideas
Married mom of four (ages 3, 6, 9, and 12), joyful home cook, and enthusiastic kitchen singer. I share fun, doable meals the whole family will actually eat — with plenty of shortcuts, swaps, and step-by-step cues.
The short version
Our house is a happy circus. The kids “help” with funny-shaped pancakes and mini pizzas, flour flies, and the giggles echo. I have a quirky habit of singing while I cook — the kids join in and dinner becomes a mini concert. It’s silly, messy, and my favorite part of the day.
I adore my family. No matter how wild it gets, I treasure the memories we’re making, and I pour that same heart into every recipe I share here.
How this blog began
Creative Dinner Ideas started because of my kids. Their faces lit up whenever I got creative in the kitchen, and with a gentle nudge from my husband, I thought, “Why not share this joy with others?”
Starting felt daunting. I didn’t know how to blog, what to post, or how to keep up. There were moments I doubted myself. But my family kept cheering, “Mom, you can do this!” So I practiced, experimented, and learned.
Posting regularly took time. I wasn’t used to photographing food or writing down every step. Slowly, I found a rhythm. Pinterest felt like the right home — a place where food lovers look for new ideas. Sharing there helped me connect with cooks just like you.
I stuck with it. Today, I truly enjoy every part of the process — brainstorming, testing, photographing, and chatting with readers.
My day-to-day in the kitchen
I carve out time each day to plan, cook, and share. Mornings often start with a mini “treasure hunt” for family-friendly ideas; by afternoon I’m testing, tasting, and taking photos in natural light.
- Recipe choices: Family favorites, kid-approved twists, and seasonal ingredients.
- Testing: Clear step-by-steps, doneness cues, and realistic timing for busy weeknights.
- Photography: Simple, natural light that shows food the way it really looks on your table.
What you’ll find on Creative Dinner Ideas
- Weeknight wins: 30-minute dinners and one-pan wonders.
- Cozy comfort: Casseroles, slow-cooker favorites, and kid-helpful recipes.
- Sweet endings: Easy treats and seasonal bakes.
- Practical swaps: Pantry substitutes, make-ahead tips, and freezer notes.
Editorial standards
- Clear instructions: Every recipe includes plain-language steps and doneness cues.
- Real-life timing: Cook times reflect a busy home kitchen (with helpers!).
- Honest photography: No tricks that change outcomes at home.
- Reader feedback: Your comments help me refine and clarify.
- Notes & swaps: Where it makes sense, I add substitution ideas and storage tips.
Nutrition information, when provided, is an estimate only. Always check labels and use your best judgment for dietary needs.
For brands & partners
I love collaborating with companies that make weeknight cooking easier and more joyful for families. Opportunities include:
- Sponsored recipes & blog posts
- UGC recipe creation, short-form video, and photography
- Ingredient or appliance features (how-to & tips)
- Giveaways and seasonal campaigns
FAQ
Can I share your photos or recipes?
You’re welcome to share one photo with a clear, do-follow link back to the original post. Please don’t republish full recipes without written permission.
Do you accept guest posts?
Not at this time. I keep the content personal and tightly edited so readers know what to expect.
How can I get in touch?
Use the contact page or email [email protected]. I try to reply within 2 business days.