Food for the Thought: Letter from the Editor
Story by Aja Goare
Illustrations by Jenna Hartzell
In the past two years, four of the bridesmaids in my wedding gave birth to five babies. Watching them become mothers — most of them for the first time — has given me a new appreciation and respect for the work that women bear. Just because a baby comes along doesn’t mean an end to the need to earn an income, prepare meals, keep the home put together and maintain relationships. And mothers aren’t the only ones leading the charge while wearing multiple hats — women are simply incredible. That’s why this issue is dedicated to them — Her Issue.
Throughout the pages of this magazine, the voices of women in food, wine, industry development and other related sectors are amplified, offering colorful insight into their world of work. Some of them are mothers who defied the odds to balance raising a child with pursuing their dream, while others fought to overcome the male-dominated norms of leadership positions. Each of them is an individual with a personal story of triumph. But all of them are united in their desire to elevate female leaders in San Luis Obispo County and beyond.
A recent Forbes article reported that less than 7 percent of the nation’s restaurants are led by a female chef and just 14 percent of lead winemakers are women.
One interview in this Edible issue really resonated with me, when Winemaker Molly Lonborg said she didn’t have any female mentors so that’s what she wants to be for the next generation of female winemakers. The takeaway: become the role model you never had.
This magazine is the product of countless talented contributors, many of whom are women. Along with myself, our Publisher Gail Cayetano-Classick and Creative Director Jennifer Olson, guide the magazine’s voice and direction. And our male contributors support the work of our strong female storytellers through their remarkable photography and writing. The throughline in our work is to uplift new voices and empower each other to put out our best product.
I’m thankful to be surrounded by so many strong women — family members, friends and colleagues — who empower each other to pursue their dreams and break the glass ceiling. Each of us is capable but together we’re unstoppable.
