Meet The Chef
Hi, I’m Tessa Holliday
Recipe developer, food photographer, and your guide to wholesome, delicious cooking
My Story Begins in the Kitchen
Growing up in a bustling household where the kitchen was the heart of our home, I learned early on that food is more than just sustenance; It’s love, connection, and creativity all rolled into one delicious experience.
My grandmother’s hand-written recipe cards sparked my passion for cooking, and now I’m on a mission to make wholesome, flavorful recipes accessible to everyone, whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey.
WholePlates was born from my belief that healthy eating should never mean sacrificing flavor or spending hours in the kitchen. Every recipe you’ll find here has been tested, tweaked, and perfected in my own kitchen because I only share what I’d proudly serve to my own family.
What I Believe In
The core principles that guide every recipe I create
Real Ingredients
I believe in using whole, recognizable ingredients that nourish your body and satisfy your taste buds
Time-Friendly
Life is busy! My recipes are designed to fit into your schedule without compromising on quality or flavor
Family-Approved
Every recipe is tested with real families in mind—satisfying kids and adults alike with delicious results
Visual Storytelling
Beautiful food photography that shows you exactly what to expect, no tricks, just honest, appetizing images
Clear Instructions
Step-by-step guidance that makes even complex techniques accessible to home cooks of all skill levels
Made With Love
Cooking is an act of care, and I pour my passion into every recipe I share with this wonderful community
My Culinary Journey
2015
The Beginning
Started experimenting with healthy ingredient swaps in my tiny apartment kitchen, documenting my successes (and failures!) on Instagram
2018
Formal Training
Completed a professional culinary nutrition certification and learned the science behind creating balanced, delicious meals
2021
WholePlates Launch
Officially launched WholePlates.com to share my passion with a wider audience and build a community of food lovers
Today
Growing Together
Serving a thriving community of home cooks, developing new recipes weekly, and loving every moment of this delicious journey!
WholePlates By The Numbers
500+
RECIPES SHARED
50K+
MONTHLY READERS
10K+
REVIEWS & RATINGS
15K+
NEWSLETTER FAMILY
Behind The Scenes
My kitchen is my happy place, a light-filled space where creativity flows and delicious aromas fill the air. You’ll usually find me testing new recipes at dawn (when the natural light is perfect for photography!) or experimenting with seasonal ingredients from the local farmers market.
When I’m not cooking, you can find me browsing vintage cookbooks, tending my herb garden, or enjoying a good cup of coffee while planning the next recipe adventure.
Every recipe that makes it to WholePlates has been cooked at least three times: once to develop, once to refine, and once to photograph. I believe in sharing only what works beautifully in a real home kitchen.
Let’s Connect!
I’d love to hear from you! Share your cooking wins, recipe requests, or just say hello
Ready to Start Cooking?
Browse hundreds of tested recipes and join our community of passionate home cooks who are making delicious, wholesome meals every single day