Maren Ellingboe King

How did you get into the industry?

I worked in restaurants for a number of years before working in editorial at Food & Wine magazine. After five years as an editorial assistant and assistant editor, I moved to the SF Bay Area in 2015 and freelanced as an assistant food stylist, recipe developer and editor, and culinary events coordinator. I moved back home to Minneapolis in 2020, and have been a lead food stylist since then. I also wrote and photographed my first cookbook, Fresh Midwest, which was published in 2022.

What inspires you?

So many things! New experiences, dinners out, art, Instagram and Pinterest, even movies and books sometimes.

What is your hometown?

Woodbury, MN

Favorite restaurant?

St. Genevieve or Rosalia Pizza

What do you like to do on the weekends?

Cook, go for long walks in my neighborhood, and spend time with my kids.

What is your favorite band or type of music?

I have eclectic taste, but probably overall favorite is Motown or jazz.

What's the best piece of advice you've ever been given?

Don't let fear of the unknown hold you back.

What book, movie read/seen recently you would recommend and why?

I just finished Yellowface by R.F. Kuang and loved it. It's a fascinating look at race, the publishing industry, and who has a right to tell which stories. It's also incredibly compelling and readable.

Are you a traveler or a homebody? Why?

Both! With a toddler and a baby at home, I'm not doing much traveling these days, but I can't wait to travel with them when they are a little older. Traveling was a big part of my childhood and early adult years, and I'm so excited to show them more of the world. Experiencing new cultures and places continues to be such an inspiration for me, and I think it's vital for expanding your worldview. That said, I also love a quiet night at home with a good meal and a book.