Natalie@cultivatefoodconnections.org

I am originally from Switzerland and New Hampshire and moved to Iowa end of 2021. I have spent this time immersing myself in the Midwest food scene and consider this my home. In addition to my work with CULTIVATE, I freelance as food stylist, recipe developer and private chef. I specifically work with medical and alternative diets like low FODMAP, Celiac, MCAS, Mediterranean and other major allergen-free protocols.

Living in the heartland of the United States now, I am a huge believer that what you eat impacts every aspect of your life—physically, mentally, and emotionally. Coming from a lineage of Swiss and American farmers and engineers, I grew up immersed in the beauty of food preparation with my family. I remain passionate about regenerative food practices and the farm-to-table movement because of that heritage passed down through my grandparents.

In my free time, I grow a vertical urban garden for my family and try to practice an eco-conscious lifestyle with my two children (as much as one can with growing littles) and husband. This has inspired my path in community volunteering and local education. I am passionate about supporting local growers, learning Iowa-specific farming practices, and teaching my kids the importance of being good community members and excellent stewards for our land.

I am very grateful for my classical culinary training and the lifelong love it instilled in me for the food I prepare. Inspired by my food heroes like Alice Waters and José Andrés, I have vowed to invest in my community, support our local food systems, and continue to explore the deep connection between health, agriculture, humanity and the Earth.