SAN FRANCISCO CHRONICLE INSIDER: ULTIMATE GUIDE TO GOING TO SAN LUIS OBISPO

It’s easy to feel like an underachiever when you hang around with Kendra Aronson. At 31, she’s a blogger, founder of the Central Coast Creatives Club and go-to web designer for the area’s top restaurants.

She’s also the designer, writer, recipe tester, stylist, photographer and promoter for “The San Luis Obispo Farmers Market Cookbook” ($35 at Omnivore Books in S.F. and www.slofarmersmarketcookbook.com), inspired by the storied market that shuts down several downtown blocks of Higuera Street from 6 to 9 p.m. every Thursday. More than 70 farmers from the Central Coast sell everything from fruit to flowers, but there are also vendors selling ready-to-eat foods, live music on each block and shops that stay open late.

Aronson was a freshman in language studies at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and new to the idea of seasonality when she visited the market for the first time. “I remember having strawberries there and losing my mind,” she says.

Read the full article →

Insider: Ultimate guide to going local in San Luis Obispo

"KENDRA'S COLUMN"Nancy's Favorite Pasta 

This pasta is the ultimate trio: simple, quick, and delicious! It’s the type of dish that you can easily take to your office for lunch or can easily be whipped up after a long day of work.
 

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Downtown SLO Farmers' Market Newsletter

"KENDRA'S COLUMN"Grilled Salmon with Broiled Apricot Jalapeño Preserve & Grilled Asparagus

This sweet, spicy, savory apricot jalapeño preserve packs an incredible flavor into this light grilled fish dish. Serve alongside asparagus and you have yourself the ultimate summer meal!

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Downtown SLO Farmers' Market Newsletter

"KENDRA'S COLUMN" MAY 2018: SEA BASS OVER MARKET GREENS AND VEGETABLES WITH GARLICKY BASIL DRESSING

Monthly columnist Kendra Aronson of The San Luis Obispo Farmers’ Market Cookbook returns with an enticing salad with sea bass for National Salad Month. Enjoy!

This mouth-watering sea bass tastes as good as it looks. The sweet pea tendrils and asparagus give a nod to springtime; while the beets, avocado, and garlicky basil dressing give you a hint that summer is just around the corner!

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Downtown SLO Farmers' Market Newsletter

"KENDRA'S COLUMN" APRIL 2018: CARROT CAKE CUPCAKES

“For April, Kendra will attempt to satisfy your sweet tooth - but with these scrumptious Carrot Cake Cupcakes, you will definitely be left wanting more. Spring screams carrots! For a fun presentation, add shavings of rainbow carrots and a sprig of greenery to the tops of these cream cheese frosted cupcakes. Recipe by Jeremy Davenport, Éclair Bakery”

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Downtown SLO Farmers' Market Newsletter

SAN DIEGO READER

“Gloria Aronson took her family to Chez Panisse six years ago. “My first time having persimmons as a garnish on a salad — sliced thin. I do that with my own salads now, when they’re in season. We had our table right near the kitchen, and when we finished, they asked if we wanted to have a tour. Two years ago, my daughter Kendra self-published The San Luis Obispo Farmer’s Market Cookbook, and left a copy for Alice at the restaurant. Alice made a wonderful comment that Kendra could use in her marketing. She sold 10,000 copies.”

Read the full article →

A long line for Alice Waters:
Fans of all sorts come out to her book signing at Chino Farm

(March 14, 2018)

"KENDRA'S COLUMN" MARCH 2018: GIVE PEAS A CHANCE

“This month, Kendra contributes a bright, refreshing salad to be enjoyed come rain or shine.

‘When peas come into season I squeal with joy that I get to create this dish. This salad calls for three types of fresh peas, vibrant greens, a citrusy lemon vinaigrette, and a creamy ball of burrata.’ - Jen Manuele, Sally Loo’s Wholesome Cafe”

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Downtown SLO Farmers' Market Newsletter

"KENDRA'S COLUMN" FEBRUARY 2018: VEGAN CREAM OF HARD SQUASH & MUSHROOM SOUP WITH QUINOA

“This month, Kendra contributes a delicious soup recipe to enjoy on these (at last!) cold evenings.

‘Creating a vegan mushroom soup that appealed en masse at The Market was one of the hardest feats to accomplish. The sweet creaminess of the hard winter squash with the nuttiness of good mushrooms and light protein (quinoa) made this soup the winner!’—Alyx Gille, Good Tides Bakery”

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Downtown SLO Farmers' Market Newsletter
(February 14, 2018)

"KENDRA'S COLUMN" JANUARY 2018: Winter citrus salad with avocado, almonds, and radish"

“Kendra Aronson presents a delicious and seasonal Winter Citrus Salad with Avocado, Almonds, and Radish in her monthly column. Thanks, Kendra!

This salad screams winter citrus: lemons, limes, oranges, and grapefruits! It’s wonderfully hearty and great to enjoy in January after the face-stuffing, belly-busting holidays.”

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Downtown SLO Farmers' Market Newsletter
(January 17, 2018)

GARDEN COLLAGE

“Kendra Aronson’s The SLO Farmers’ Market Cookbook is a collection of recipes, short stories, and interviews that animate the unique food culture that exists within the Central Coast of California. Aronson has written, photographed, and self published (with the help of her community of donors at Kickstarter) a moving memorandum of culture that quickly garnered praise from Alice Waters, the empress of sustainable agriculture and leader of the farm-to-table movement as we know it. With 15 recipes per season and three recipes for each category–breakfast, light bites, lunch, dinner, and dessert, we are drooling with the turn of every page. Beekeeper Burrata garnished with mulberries and edible flowers, anyone?”

Read full blog post →
The Best Books for Dreaming, Exploring, and Contemplation in the Wintertime
(December 7, 2017)

"KENDRA'S COLUMN" DECEMBER 2017

"Monthly columnist and The San Luis Obispo Farmers' Market Cookbook author Kendra Aronson contributes a beautiful and delicious recipe this month for "A Little Slice of Heaven" Apple Crisp.
 

For a fun family outing, visit SLO Creek Farms during their u-pick season. Fill up your bushels with Braeburn apples, come home, bake this crisp, and enjoy the fruits of your labor!

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Downtown SLO Farmers' Market Newsletter
(December 6, 2017)

"KENDRA'S COLUMN" NOVEMBER 2017

"Monthly columnist and The San Luis Obispo Farmers' Market Cookbook  author Kendra Aronson contributes a beautiful and delicious recipe for Garlicky Blackened Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, Meyer Lemon, and Aioli. Welcome, fall!”

 These Brussels sprouts sure do pack a punch! Between the garlicky aioli, vibrant lemon juice, and salty bacon, you will always have a hankering to make this easy comfort dish.

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Downtown SLO Farmers' Market Newsletter
(November 8, 2017)

THE FRAUDULENT CHEF

"When Alice was finished and the crowd began to head upstairs to the cocktail hour, we lucky ones who could lingered in the green room. Alice was chatting with Traci, Gabriela and Liz when Kerry walked in with a woman with dark eyes and long wavy hair, holding a book.

“Alice, this is my friend, Kendra Aronson,” she said. “Kendra self-published this SLO Farmers' Market Cookbook and I wanted to introduce you.”

Alice took the book and began to leaf through it as Kendra began to quietly cry and I began to quietly tap away on my phone. Then Alice went in for the hug. Looks like I  need to work on my focus more. Then again, I kind of think these shots are just perfect."
 

Read full blog post →
We asked Alice
(October 19, 2017)

TALLEY FARMS' NEWSLETTER

"Be sure pick up a copy of The San Luis Obispo Farmers' Market Cookbook: Simple Seasonal Recipes & Short Stories from the Central Coast of California for your friends and family this holiday season! The cookbook features 196 pages of 60 seasonal recipes and 40 short stories. The recipes are organized by seasons (15 recipes per season) and are sub-divided into five categories: breakfast, light bites, lunch, dinner, and dessert (3 recipes per category). The latter part of the cookbook features short stories, interviews, and profiles of farmers, food artisans, and farm-to-table chefs. In the spirit of a creating a collaborative community-driven cookbook, the majority of the recipes are provided by the food growers and crafters themselves to showcase the true taste of the Central Coast. Flip to page 57 for Talley Farms' Napa Cabbage Wrap with Roasted Peppers and Chicken recipe and page 187 for Andrea Chavez's story on how she started the Fresh Harvest box program! Available for purchase at Talley Vineyards' tasting room and online. "
 

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Talley Farms Fresh Harvest Newsletter
(October/November/December, 2017)

"KENDRA'S COLUMN"
OCTOBER 2o17

"This month, we are excited to launch a monthly recipe from Kendra Aronson, the vision and voice behind The San Luis Obispo Farmers' Market Cookbook: Simple Seasonal Recipes & Short Stories from the Central Coast of California. Take it away, Kendra!

PUMPKIN WAFFLES
You officially know it’s fall when these pumpkin waffles re-appear on the menu of Sally Loo’s Wholesome Cafe. They are doused in brown butter syrup, cardamom mascarpone whipped cream, and topped with locally grown apples and toasted pecans. Yup, fall is here!"
 

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Downtown SLO Farmers' Market Newsletter
(October 11, 2017)

INTRODUCING
"KENDRA'S COLUMN"

"We are pleased to announce that Kendra Aronson will be contributing monthly to Tomorrow Night at The Market, the Downtown SLO Farmers' Market newsletter. Kendra is the vision and voice behind The San Luis Obispo Farmers' Market Cookbook: Simple Seasonal Recipes & Short Stories from the Central Coast of California. Her enthusiasm (and endless energy) made it real—from the writing, recipe testing, and food photography, to the editorial design and self-publishing.

Taking her dream from big idea to bound book took creativity and crowdfunding. In July 2015, Kendra launched a Kickstarter campaign and raised $26,714 in pre-order sales. She sold out of her first print run of 2,000 copies in just 20 days. Now in its third print run, Kendra’s cookbook has sold over 8,000 copies. She’s still in awe and grateful to every single supporter.

Kendra's successful self-publishing journey has been featured on Girlboss, Food52, Radio Cherry Bombe, and the Being Boss Podcast. Plus, her cookbook has garnered the attention of famed, farm-to-table goddess Alice Waters (!). Check next week for Kendra's Column, where we'll feature a recipe from her famed cookbook. You can also follow her on Instagram at @kendraaronson."
 

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Downtown SLO Farmers' Market Newsletter
(October 4, 2017)

CALIFORNIA BOUNTIFUL BOOK REVIEW

"When Kendra Aronson launched her Kickstarter-supported project to produce The San Luis Obispo Farmers' Market Cookbook, she called upon local chefs and farmers to contribute their favorite recipes, resulting in a true community cookbook. The collection dishes up seasonal flavors, a celebration of farm-fresh California ingredients and a personal look at the hardworking people behind the food. Paperback from Kendra Aronson Creative Studio. $35."

Subscribe to the magazine →
California Bountiful
(July/August 2017)

CAL POLY COLLEGE OF
LIBERAL ARTS "IMPACT" MAGAZINE

"Kendra Aronson (Modern Languages and Literatures, '09) published a cookbook inspired by the San Luis Obispo farmers' market."

Read full magazine →
Cal Poly College of Liberal Arts "Impact" Magazine
(Spring 2017)

BEING BOSS PODCAST

What happens when you commit yourself to a passion project and don’t let go? Kendra Aronson is on the podcast sharing her story of how she launched a successful Kickstarter campaign to fund her popular cookbook after the passion project wouldn’t leave her mind.

Topics discussed in this episode:

• Kendra’s creative background
• Shifting focus in your path/passion + finishing what you start
• Having a “training wheels” project to fuel your passion project
• Funding a project through Kickstarter / crowd funding
• Logistics of selling a cookbook
• Following your passion

Listen to the full episode →
Committing to your Passion Project with Kendra Aronson
(June 20, 2017)

"Weekend getaway: 6 must-do things in SLO CAL" K5 TV SEGMENT

Watch the full episode →
"Weekend Getaway: 6 Must-Do Things in SLO CAL"
(May 23, 2017)

COOKERY BY THE BOOK PODCAST WTIH SUZY CHASE

"Kendra Aronson will inspire you to get going on that creative project that’s stuck in your head. We chat about how she self published The San Luis Obispo Farmers' Market Cookbook and crowdfunded the whole project. Her first run of 2,000 copies of the cookbook sold in the first 20 days! Kendra talks about the elements that she wanted to include in this beautiful cookbook. We chat about Javier Magana, a San Luis Obispo farmer. Kendra’s connection with Alice Waters. How we met at #FoodBookFair in NYC and Kendra gives us some of her New York City highlights from the trip. I made the Burrata Salad with Sweet Peas, Snap Peas & Sugar Peas from page 129 and Kendra tells us about Sally Loo’s Cafe where the recipe came from. I attempt to pry deets about her next cookbook out of her to no avail. Take a listen and get inspired, Kendra Aronson is a force of nature!"

—Cookery by the Book Podcast
(May 23, 2017)

Listen to the podcast → Episode #59 Cookery by the Book

RADIO CHERRY BOMBE

"Later we chat with Kendra Aronson, the food writer, photographer, and self-publisher of The San Luis Obispo Farmers’ Market Cookbook: Simple Seasonal Recipes and Short Stories from the Central Coast of California. After a successful Kickstarter campaign, raising $27,000, Kendra’s book caught the attention of retailers across California and even farm-to-table goddess Alice Waters. Kendra also runs her own creative studio and founded The Central Coast Creatives Club."

—Radio Cherry Bombe
(May 11, 2017)

Listen to the podcast → Episode 112 Kendra Aronson + Andrea Nguyen

SLO CAL 2017/2018 OFFICIAL VISITORS MAGAZINE

"We have 20 farmers' markets every week—at least one every day, and as many as five on Saturdays. I love the Monday market in Baywood, the Thursday market in San Luis Obispo, and the Saturday market in Templeton. I'm a fan of bringing my reusable mason jars to the market to fill up on fresh juice and seasonal soups."

—Kendra Aronson
Author, The San Luis Obispo Farmers' Market Cookbook

SLOCAL
TOURISM
COMMERICAL

"CHOOSE YOUR ADVENTURE IN SLO CAL"

0:11-0:13 = Shea Somma & Kendra Aronson

SLOCAL
TOURISM
COMMERICAL

"LIFE'S TOO BEAUTIFUL TO RUSH"

0:24-0:28 = Shea Somma & Kendra Aronson

FOOD52 "5 Insider Tips for (Successfully) Self-Publishing That Cookbook You Dream About"

"In Part 1 of this mini series, I previously shared how design dictates everything and how to reverse engineer your production timeline based on your release date (plus 3 more tips!). Now it’s time to dive deeper into other important elements: cover design, recipe testing, proofing, campaigning, and marketing!"

—Food52
(January 3, 2016)

Read the full article → 5 Insider Tips for (Successfully)
Self-Publishing That Cookbook You Dream About

VISIT SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY — NOVO'S FRESH AVOCADO SHRIMP SPRING ROLLS
 

"Bring Novo Restaurant & Lounge home with you by making their delicious and fresh Avocado-Shrimp Spring Rolls. Check out the recipe below and then try them for yourself during Restaurant Month January 2017"

—Visit San Luis Obispo County
(December 20, 2016)

Get the recipe → Novo's Fresh Avocado Spring Rolls

SAN LUIS RANCH

"San Luis Ranch: A Sustainable Land Plan that Protects Views, Preserves Agriculture and Nurtures Growth. San Luis Obispo is a farming community. This is our legacy. And most importantly, this is our future.  Preserving 50% of the land as a working farm and open space, which protects the existing view corridor into SLO, and creates a new Agricultural Heritage Learning Center are just some of the ways that San Luis Ranch ensures that the agricultural heritage of SLO remains firmly planted. When we honor the legacy of our past, we can build upon its strength as a community, to house our citizens, nurture our growth and sustain our values, without ever changing the landscape."

View the website → sanluisranch.com/aglearning

#GIRLBOSS

“My name is Kendra Aronson and I’m the writer, photographer, designer, and self-publisher of The San Luis Obispo Farmers’ Market Cookbook. When I started this personal passion project (now a profitable book business!) I couldn’t claim those creative titles as my own. 

When it came to cooking, I had no formal culinary training. When it came to writing, I had never been formally published in print anywhere. When it came to photography, I wasn’t familiar with most of the settings on my camera. When it came to design, I didn’t own a single Adobe program—hell, I didn’t even know how to import an image into Photoshop, let alone lay out an entire book in InDesign! This just goes to show you, if you have an idea and the grit to make that idea happen, you really can do anything you set your mind to.”

—#Girlboss

Read the full article → Beyond the #Girlbossmoment: Kendra Aronson self-publishes a super successful cookbook!

COYOTE & OAK, VO. III

'“I remember the first time I ever went to the downtown SLO farmers’ market. It was right before my first year at Cal Poly,” Aronson fondly recalled. “It was during WOW [Week of Welcome]. What I remember most distinctly were the strawberries—I was blown away.  I’d never tasted strawberries that good before!”  she said excitedly, as if it was happening all over again.

The same nostalgic enthusiasm manifested when Aronson described growing up in San Diego and her first job at age 12. She worked as a hostess at Tony’s Jacal, a family-owned and operated Mexican restaurant. Aronson got hired due to the fact that Tony is Tony Gonzales, her grandpa, who opened the Jacal in 1946. “I’m not sure what the labor laws were back then, but I was getting paid $5 an hour, under the table,” she said. “I would usually work 4-hour shifts, so my aunt would just give me a 20 from the cash register at the end of the night.”'

—Coyote & Oak
(Volume 3, p. 110-121)

Read the full article → download or buy a print copy at Coyote & Oak

PASO ROBLES MAGAZINE

"We are addicted to cookbooks at General Store PR. They make you feel hopeful. They tell a simple story that ends with people together, enjoying a meal (and maybe dessert!) Our customers often recommend books they love, and we also spend hours pouring over piles of new cookbooks each season. Sometimes the cover is enticing, but there aren’t enough pictures, or the recipes don’t make us want to clutter up the counters with piles of cilantro or a dusting of cornmeal. The San Luis Obispo Farmers’ Market Cookbook, with its striking portrait of fresh produce against a black background, delivers on every level. We met Kendra Aronson, its author, when she came to the store a few years ago to tell us about her plans. The end result is visually gorgeous, and the recipes make you want to grab that apron. We asked her some questions as we piled a few more of her books onto our cookbook table. "

—Paso Robles Magazine
(October 2016 print issue, p. 58)

Read the full article → Find Fall Inspiration with
 Kendra Aronson's love letter to local produce

CAL POLY MAGAZINE

"Kendra Aronson (Modern Languages and Literature, ’09) is the writer, photographer, designer and self-publisher of The San Luis Obispo Farmers Market Cookbook: Simple Seasonal Recipes and Short Stories from the Central Coast of California. The book was released December 2015 and sold out in 20 days. Now in its second print run, the cookbook is stocked by more than 60 retailers in San Luis Obispo County and in all the California locations of Barnes & Noble."

—Cal Poly Magazine
(Fall 2016 print issue)

Read the full article → Cal Poly Magazine
College of Liberal Arts
Alumni Class Notes

SLO TRIBUNE "CENTRAL COAST WRITERS CONFERENCE RETURNS TO SAN LUIS OBISPO"

"With a newly expanded roster of offerings, organizers of the Central Coast Writers Conference aim to attract writers, readers and other literati to San Luis Obispo later this week.

Now in its 32nd year, the event, which runs Thursday through Saturday in San Luis Obispo, features 60-plus literary professionals sharing their insights via 85 classes and workshops, plus panel discussions, keynote presentations and more. It’s presented by Cuesta College Community Programs.

As many as 400 people are expected to attend the conference next week, according to conference director Teri Bayus. That’s compared to about 250 conference goers last fall.

[...]

This year, Bayus has added some nonfiction offerings, such as memoir writer Nahid Rachlin and cookbook authors Brigit Binns of Paso Robles and Kendra Aronson of San Luis Obispo.

'That’s a very underserved part of the writing community,' Bayus said."

—SLO Tribune
(September 24, 2016)

Read the full article → Central Coast Writers Conference
Retursn to San Luis Obispo

FOOD52 "The First Five Steps to Self-Publishing Your Cookbook"

"In December 2015, I self-published my first cookbook entirely from scratch: I did all the writing, photography, design, pre-order crowdfunding, marketing, and distribution. It was a lot of work, and a lot of fun.

As I embark on creating my second book, I've been looking back at all I learned—here are just a few of tips I would share with anyone wanting to self publish (I have many more!)."

—Food52
(September 23, 2016)

Read the full article → The First Five Steps to Self-Publishing
Your Cookbook

THE CHALKBOARD MAG
 

"Our farmers’ market hero in the SLOcal space is Kendra Aronson. The writer and publisher of The SLO Farmers’ Market Cookbook, Kendra has compiled a collection of recipes – many by the folks in the community – to showcase the local ingredients that are in several signature dishes from Southern and Central California. By enjoying this box, you’ll also get to explore some of the dishes from Kendra’s stunning cookbook.

When we share our cookbook secrets, we all grow that much closer to the beauty of local and less commercial, handmade and less machine manufactured, intimate and less impersonal. We support a local food economy with seasonal produce that’s best for our health and wellbeing. Who doesn’t want to support a food and farming community and culture that is this colorful, bountiful and delicious?"

—The Chalkboard Mag
(September 16, 2016)

Read the full article → The Chalkboard Mag: Green Apple + Butternut Squash Soup with Creme Fraiche

OUT OF THE BOX COLLECTIVE
 

"Autumn is around the corner, and this box will put you in the midst of multiple colors and a change of palate. You’ll enjoy Brussel sprouts, butternut squash, leeks, mushrooms, tart green apples and pomegranates. And arriving just in time for a delicious preparation of the classic tri-tip meal are pinquito beans, a cross between a pink bean and a small white bean. Once you’re on the path to mastering this dish, there is no turning back. This scrumptious Santa Maria BBQ standard will turn any dilettante in the kitchen into an avid chef with a prize-winning meal for the ages."

—Out of the Box Collective
(September 1, 2016)

Order the box → The San Luis Obispo Farmers' Market Cookbook

FOOD & WINE WITH CHEF JAMIE GWEN RADIO SHOW
 

"Cheryl Sternman Rule talks Yogurt Culture, Kendra Aronson takes us on a tour of The San Luis Obispo Farmers’ Market Cookbook, Jeni Britton Bauer serves us up a double scoop of Jeni's Ice Cream."

—Food & Wine with Chef Jamie Gwen Radio Show
(August 28, 2016)

Subscribe to the radio show → Food & Wine with Chef Jamie Gwen

EDIBLE SAN FRANCISCO
 

"Summer is in full swing, and so are our favorite markets. Around these parts, we are lucky enough to have the choice of shopping at a local farmers market or having a particular farm deliver a box of random goodies from their harvest, known as community-supported agriculture (CSA) harvest subscription.

Both options contain the element of surprise: you just never know what you'll find from week to week. Figuring out what to do with cardoons three weeks in a row, or an entire bushel of apricots, can be a challenge to even the most seasoned chef. 

Thus, two new cookbooks that focus on seasonal farmers' markets and CSA produce are a huge help to our busting larders, especially this time of year. Let's begin with The San Luis Obispo Farmers’ Market Cookbook, written by the indefatigable Kendra Aronson. I've rarely met a more enthusiastic and proud author, and she should be. She wrote, photographed, designed, and published this gorgeous book all on her own.

San Luis Obispo was once known for its vast cattle ranches, but a major drought in 1863 forced residents to look for other modes of income. They turned to dairy and agriculture, and the town and its surroundings have been known for great produce ever since. Filled with a wide range of recipes of specialities from the Central Coast, the book also includes favorites from local farmers, ranchers and chefs, as well as interviews with them in the back. 

For instance, Tami Righetti contributes her recipe for Sweet Yams with Brown Sugar Pecan Crumble. Her avocado ranch is then profiled in the rear, with a detailed history of her family's evolution on the farm. Shaun Behrens in the chef at Luna Red Restaurant. His Pistachio Crust Honeyed Goat Cheese Cheesecake is every bit as sublime as it sounds, with a citrus creme to top it off.

The recipes are not complex; most are just one page long, which makes them approachable, and are written conversationally, as if by a friend. Which is surely how you'll feel about Kendra Aronson once you've worked your way through her wonderful homage to the farmers markets and people of SLO. The farmers market is held every Thursday from 6 to 9 pm on Higuera Street, between Osos and Nipomo Streets."

—Celia Sack, Owner of Omnivore Books

—Edible San Francisco
(Summer 2016)

Subscribe to the magazine → Edible San Francisco

Santa barbarA independent
 

"The package includes eight ounces of red abalone (complete with pretty shells), a disposable grill topper, Chardonnay Smoked Sea Salt from Pasolivo in Paso Robles, and two recipes, one for classic grilled abs and the other a crostini-based side dish by author Kendra Aronson, who wrote The San Luis Obispo Farmers’ Market Cookbook."

—Santa Barbara Independent
(August 11, 2016)

Read the full article → True Myth & Abalone:
New Chardonnay Sold with Cayucos Abalone

THE HUFFINGTON POST
 

"An extra bonus to complete this savory summer treat, True Myth has also included a special recipe from Kendra Aronson, local author of The San Luis Obispo Farmers’ Market Cookbook. Her Crostini with Sungold Tomatoes, Padrón Peppers, Grilled Zucchini, Fresh Brebis, and Spicy Pistachio Pesto is the perfect side dish to pair with the True Myth Chardonnay and abalone for a complete summer afternoon bite."

—The Huffington Post
(August 10, 2016)

Read the full article → An immersion with sustainability on
California’s Central Coast: True Myth Winery

MEDIUM/KICKSTARTER
 

"We’ve got some tasty, tasty news — this week, we’re celebrating 100 million dollars pledged to Food projects on Kickstarter. That’s $100 million from folks who’ve helped innovative cookbooks, new restaurants, food trucks, community spaces, gardens and farms, coffee shops, breweries, and other gourmand dreams come to life.

Let’s revel in the goodness together. Join us as we gather ‘round the table to dig into these festive recipes from successful Kickstarter creators who know firsthand the amazing things that can happen with the help of an enthusiastic community."

—Medium/Kickstarter
(July 12, 2016)

Read the full article → Recipe Roundup: Celebrating a Delicious Milestone, Backyard BBQ Style

HAPPIEST PLACE IN AMERICA PODCAST
 

"Did you know there are 20 local Farmer’s Market throughout SLO County every week? At least one per day and as many as 5 on Saturdays? We are so so blessed. And Kendra Aronson, owner of Kendra Aronson Creative Studio and author of The San Luis Obispo Farmers' Market Cookbook knows it and wants to share it with the world. She wants to share with you the stories of our local farmers, chefs, restaurant and cafe owners who work tirelessly to support our wondrously plentiful food system here on the Central Coast. She wants to share with you amazing seasonal recipes created by these people that can help inspire you to shop locally, eat locally, and eat seasonally. She does it so well in her beautiful cookbook that I highly suggest you check out."

—Happiest Place in America Podcast
(July 13, 2016)

Listen to the interview → Happiness is Food and
The SLO Farmers' Market Cookbook

KCBX "JOURNEYS OF DISCOVERY WITH TOM WILMER" 

"Correspondent, Tom Wilmer visits with San Luis Obispo, California based author, Kendra Aronson about her new book, The San Luis Obispo Farmers’ Market Cookbook: Simple Seasonal Recipes & Short Stories from the Central Coast of California. The cookbook features 196 pages of 60 seasonal recipes and 40 short stories.

The recipes are organized by seasons (15 recipes per season) and are sub-divided into five categories: breakfast, light bites, lunch, dinner, and dessert (3 recipes per category). The latter part of the cookbook features short stories, interviews, and profiles of farmers, food artisans, and farm-to-table chefs.

In the spirit of a creating a collaborative community-driven cookbook, the food growers and crafters themselves showcase the true taste of the Central Coast. 

Kendra raised 27 thousand dollars on Kickstarter to fund her first print run of 2,000 copies—which sold out in just 20 days. Now in its second print run, the cookbook is stocked by more than 60 local retailers and is carried in all the California locations of Barnes & Noble.

Writer, photographer, designer, and self-publisher Kendra Aronson also launched Creative Studio in 2014 to provide small businesses and fellow creative entrepreneurs with an array of services, including writing, photography, graphic design, and web design. Aronson is an enthusiastic 'Jane-of-all-trades' who is always dreamin’ up personal projects, work opportunities, and creative collaborations."

—KCBX
(June 24, 2016)

Listen to the interview → San Luis Obispo's lengendary
farmers' market stars in new cookbook

LOS OSOS/BAYWOOD PARK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

"Come meet the author of The San Luis Obispo Farmers’ Market Cookbook, Kendra Aronson. Join us for a beautiful day on the back patio with lots of friends, food, and fun! We will be sampling recipes straight from the book, which you may purchase at the event if you have yet to do so. Kendra will be happy to answer any questions and of course, sign your copy!"

—Los Osos/Baywood Park Chamber of Commerce

CASA DUMETZ NEWSLETTER

"Kendra is a dynamic woman involved in so many life-affirming actions.  Besides her extensive portfolio, you may know her best as the author of The San Luis Obispo Farmers’ Market Cookbook .... Kendra also runs the Central Coast Creatives Club, where she organizes meet ups for like minded individuals wanting to discover new aspects of their area."

—Casa Dumetz
(June 14, 2016)

Subscribe the newsletter → Casa Dumetz

NEW TIMES
FLAVOR ISSUE

"She grew up surrounded by food and worked part time as a server (working at Mama’s Meatball for a time in college), bartender, and even cheese monger. Aronson also dabbled in photography, but never thought to connect the two until she challenged herself to eat, drink, write, and photograph her way through the best bites and sips San Francisco had to offer when she was living up there. 

'I realized that food photography is a whole different animal. It’s not like shooting a person or a landscape.'

Today Aronson does freelance writing, photography, and graphic and web design for a bevy of clients, but her favorite gigs always involve food."

—New Times Flavor Issue
(June 9, 2016)

Read the full article → Good enough to eat: SLO photographer
Kendra Aronson puts food in focus

KVEC 920 AM

—KVEC 920 AM "The Dave Congalton Show"
(June 7, 2016)

CHERRY BOMBE MAGAZINE

"Check out these two love letters to California farmers.
Triple threat @kendraaronson produced the entire  #slofarmersmarketcookbook by herself. And the Farmsteads book is by Sarah Henry and @erinscottstudio. Both books have great recipes, stories and pictures"

—Cherry Bombe Magazine
(May 22, 2016)

Read the full Instagram post → @cherrybombemag

VISIT SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY TOURISM PROMO VIDEO

My husband , Shea Somma, and I were casted as "the farmers' market goers" for this tourism promo video!

—Visit San Luis Obispo County
(May 20, 2016)

EDIBLE SAN LUIS OBISPO & WINE COUNTRY MAGAZINE

"Designed by Kendra Aronson—author of The San Luis Obispo Farmers’ Market Cookbook. Cookbooks and market map prints availabel for purchase at www.slofarmersmarketcookbook.com/shop."

—Edible San Luis Obispo & Wine Country Magazine
(May 20, 2016)

MORRO BAY BOOK DISCUSSION GROUP

"November 9: 'Self-publishing The San Luis Obispo Farmers’ Market Cookbook from Scratch' with Local Author and Food Photographer, Kendra Aronson"

—San Luis Obispo County Library
(May 4, 2016)

RUTIZ FARMS NEWSLETTER

"Kendra Aronson, local author of The San Luis Obispo Farmers’ Market Cookbook: Simple Seasonal Recipes & Short Stories from the Central Coast of California will be signing and selling her book which makes for the perfect Mother's day gift! (Sunday May 8 is Mother's Day, don't forget!) Kendra featured Rutiz Farms in the cookbook and recently re-designed their website: www.rutizfarms.com. Kendra will be at our farm stand on Tuesday, May 3,  from 2-6 p.m.and again on Friday, May 6, from 3 to 6 pm."

—Rutiz Farms Newsletter
(April 26, 2016)
(May 3, 2016)

CENTRAL COAST MAMA

"Not only does Fromagerie Sophie have one of the best cheese selections on the Central Coast, they also have San Luis Obispo’s favorite cookbook. We can’t help but feel like we’re casually strolling the streets of Paris when we step into this delightful local shop. Included in this gift basket is The San Luis Obispo Farmers’ Market Cookbook: Simple Seasonal Recipes & Short Stories from the Central Coast of California signed by author Kendra Aronson. This is one cookbook that doesn’t stay on store shelves for long (it sold out over the holiday season)."

—Central Coast Mama
(April 24, 2016)

Read the full blog post → SLO Mother's Day Giveaway

SLO COUNTY LIBRARY

"Gather with us at the Santa Margarita Library to meet Kendra Aronson—the writer, photographer, designer, and self-publisher of The San Luis Obispo Farmers’ Market Cookbook: Simple Seasonal Recipes & Short Stories from the Central Coast of California. Kendra and Guy Rathbun will discuss her book, recipes, and local stories.

—SLO County Library
(April 24, 2016)

EDNA VALLEY VINEYARD

"Ready to enjoy the finest wines and most delectable recipes San Luis Obispo has to offer? Kendra Aronson, author of San Luis Obispo Farmers’ Market Cookbook, will be here Sunday, April 24 from 1PM-4PM signing copies! Meet Kendra, sip wine, and purchase a specially priced market tote, cookbook and wine bundle featuring our Fleur de Edna Chardonnay. The perfect Mother's Day gift!"

—Edna Valley Vineyard
(April 15, 2016)

SAN LUIS OBISPO CLASSICAL ACADEMY

"Have you seen The San Luis Obispo Farmers’ Market Cookbook? It's a beautiful book worth stopping in to see. It makes a great gift too!"

—San Luis Obispo Classical Academy's Weekly Update Newsletter
(April 12, 2016)

HAPPIEST PLACE IN AMERICA BLOG

"I highly suggest you check out this interview that details Kendra’s journey from Cal Poly student to San Francisco cheesemonger, and then her return to San Luis Obispo and her transition into the creative design world. She has married her love of food and design into the beautiful San Luis Obispo Farmers’ Market Cookbook, which can be purchased here and was released last year in 2015. I also highly suggest reading this interview as a source of inspiration for any creative entrepreneurs or entrepreneurs within any industry for that matter. Kendra’s can-do attitude is nothing short of impressive."

—Happiest Place in America blog
(April 11, 2016)

Read the full blog post → Kendra Aronson featured with her
San Luis Obispo Farmers' Market Cookbook

FARMSTEAD ED NEWSLETTER

"Burrata Salad with Sweet Peas, Snap Peas, and Sugar peas from The San Luis Obispo Farmers’ Market Cookbook; recipe by Jen Manuele of Sally Loo's Wholesome Cafe. "

—FARMstead Ed
(Spring Newsletter sent April 7, 2016)

Join their mailing list → FARMstead Ed

SLO CHAMBER

"At the ripe old age of 28 (and three-quarters) Kendra Aronson has already checked a box on her life-goals list. Last year after interviewing, writing, photographing, editing, designing, marketing, social media-ing and hosting a successful crowd-funding campaign, she published The San Luis Obispo Farmers Market Cookbook. The years-in-the-making project had a stellar release that resulted in a second print run. The proprietress of Kendra Aronson Creative Studio recently took off all the hats that a solopreneur wears and talked about Leslie Knope, saying 'yes' and asking chefs for their recipes."

—The San Luis Obispo Chamber of Commerce
(March 31, 2016)

Read full article → We Asked, Kendra Aronson Answered

DELISH DISH

"I found this recipe from Sarah Matthews of Talley Farms in my San Luis Obispo Farmers’ Market Cookbook. Sarah is the resident chef at the Talley Winery and Farm. Her recipe for Napa Cabbage Wraps with Roasted Peppers & Chicken creates a stunning dish and perfect finger food for parties. It is also great for lunch or dinner at home and is easy to adapt with other ingredients. You can use an array of different vegetables, sauces and garnishes and vary the style of the dish accordingly."

—Delish Dish
(February 19, 2016)

Read full article → Tired of Unhealthy Party Food?
Serve a Tray of these Tasty Cabbage Wraps!

DELISH DISH

"Aptly named, 'Mind-Blowing Milk-Braised Pork', this dish was sublime! The caramelized crispy bits on the outside were like candy and the meat was so tender, I was barely able to slice it. It was definitely mind-blowing!"

—Delish Dish
(February 12, 2016)

Read full article → Braising in Milk Creates a Mind-Blowing Meal!

DELISH DISH

"These cookies are quite a show stopper and even 'I' was able to make them look professional! Seeing that the bakery side of cooking is not my forte, I was a bit worried about pulling it off. After looking at the gorgeous photo in the cookbook showing off their glamour and style, I wasn’t sure if my results would be worthy enough. Much to my surprise, my cookies turned out both delicious and beautiful too!"

—Delish Dish
(February 11, 2016)

Read full article → Elevate your Afternoon Tea
with these Adorable Cookies!

DELISH DISH

"I’ve been working my way through the recipes in The San Luis Obispo Farmers’ Market Cookbook and I’m really enjoying it! There are some very talented chefs on the Central Coast of California and it is illustrated in the recipes they have contributed in this beautiful cookbook. I am also loving reading the short stories that showcase the chefs and local businesses who are featured in the book."

—Delish Dish
(February 10, 2016)

Read full article → Impress Guests at Your Next Dinner Party
with this Sumptuous Meal!

SLO LIFESTYLE

"It was a delight to receive my copy in the mail last December. Kendra’s book is full of life, beautiful photographs, inspiring stories and delicious recipes from local farmers and chefs around SLO county. The cookbook is a must-own, not only for SLO natives, but for anyone passionate about cooking seasonal dishes with locally produced ingredients."

—SLO Lifestyle
(February 2, 2016)

See full article → SLO Lifestyle: Kendra Aronson

CAL POLY
COLLEGE OF LIBERAL ARTS "THE LINK" NEWSLETTER

"Cal Poly graduate Kendra Aronson (Modern Languages and Literatures, '09) believes that the food you eat connects you to a long line of individuals who grow, produce and cook that food. This connection—if you know where your food comes from—is what enriches the culinary experience. Aronson forged that connection for others through her new cookbook, which fully immerses readers in the farms, farmers and chefs who grow and prepare food on the Central Coast—the community that helps make San Luis Obispo special.

'I just love that we live in such a rich agricultural area where you can literally shake the hand that feeds you,' Aronson said.

For her, building friendships and becoming connected with the community starts through the taste buds. During her time studying modern languages and literatures at Cal Poly, the local farmers markets introduced her to the value and benefits of natural produce."

—Cal Poly College of Liberal Arts "The Link" Newsletter, Winter 2016
(January 20, 2016)

Read full article → Alumna Rediscovers San Luis Obispo
Through Culinary Palate

CAL POLY
ALUMNI UPDATE

"Local College of Liberal Arts grad Kendra Aronson (B.A., Modern Languages & Literatures, '09) is the writer, photographer and designer behind the San Luis Obispo Farmers' Market Cookbook. Launched on Kickstarter in July, 2015 Aronson's creation sold out in just 20 days and is now on its second run. The cookbook features 60 seasonal recipes and 40 short stories, plus interviews and profiles of local farmers and chefs, many of whom also provided the recipes included in the book." 

—Cal Poly Alumni Monthly News, January 2016
(January 13, 2016)

Read full article → Alumna Writes First SLO Farmers' Market Cookbook

FOOD52

"Farmers still need our support, no matter the season. As Kendra Aronson, the writer and photographer behind The San Luis Obispo Farmers' Market Cookbook put it: 'Despite the downpours, you've got to make the trek to the market. Support your local farmer—both in moral support and financial support. Showing your dedicated loyalty year-round means the world to them. Embrace the weather and make it an adventure! The meal you make at home will taste infinitely better because you made the trek and braved the weather to the farmers' market, I promise.'"

—FOOD52
(January 12, 2016)

Read full article → What's at Wintertime Farmers' Markets
(Besides Root Vegetables)

DELISH DISH

"This salad utilizes every part of the citrus including the zest, juice and fruit segments. The buttery flavor of the lettuce and the creamy avocado offer a nice balance for the citrus. The added crunch of the almonds and radishes add the finishing touch. It was the perfect end to my first day and left me feeling healthy and satisfied."

—Delish Dish
(January 10, 2016)

Read full article → A Colorful Assortment of
Winter Citrus Stars in this Refreshing Salad

Photo credit: Joe Johnston. 

SLO TRIBUNE

"Given the striking visuals of her 196-page 'SLO Farmers’ Market Cookbook,' it’s hard to believe that—by her own admission—Kendra Aronson 'was not a writer, photographer or graphic designer' when she started the project some three years ago."

—SLO Tribune
(December 27, 2015)

Read full article → New cookbook celebrates local farmers' market

DELISH DISH

"One of my favorite holiday gifts so far this year is The San Luis Obispo Farmer’s Market Cookbook! Written by Kendra Aronson, it is a compilation of stories and recipes from local farms and restaurants on the central coast of California. Aside from the tantalizing recipes, the pages are filled with enticing photographs that are sure to make your mouth water!"

—Delish Dish
(December 20, 2015)

Read full article → Another Victory for Brussels sprouts

KRUSH 92.5
"LIQUID LUNCH" RADIO SHOW WITH CHEFS JENSEN LORENZEN &
SHAUN BEHRENS

—KRUSH 92.5
(on the air December 17, 2015)

Listen live → KRUSH 92.5

FARMSTEAD ED NEWSLETTER

"A FEW OF OUR FAVORITE THINGS: We think these local favorites make the perfect gifts and stocking stuffers that everyone is sure to love this holiday season! SLO Farmers’ Market Cookbook: a community-driven cookbook featuring seasonal recipes."

—FARMstead Ed
(December Newsletter sent December 15, 2015)

Join their mailing list → FARMstead Ed

SLO NATURAL FOODS CO-OP FLYER

"Join us here at SLO Natural Foods Co-op for a book signing with local author Kendra Aronson on Friday, December 18th from 4 PM to 6 PM. Kendra’s book, The San Luis Obispo Farmers’ Market Cookbook, is a culinary tour of the Central Coast with 60 seasonal recipes, short stories, and interviews with local farmers and restaurateurs. Copies are selling fast —don’t miss out!"

—SLO Natural Foods Co-Op

TALLEY FARMS NEWSLETTER

"IT'S HERE! The San Luis Obispo Farmers' Market Cookbook is out and you can get your copy! Author Kendra Aronson received recipes from many of our local farmers, tested them, interviewed the farmers and has just published her first cookbook. Sarah Matthews our own chef at Talley Farms and Talley Vineyards created a Napa cabbage recipe that is included. The cookbook is designed with recipes in the front and stories of our local farmers towards the back." 

—Talley Farms
(Newsletter sent December 12, 2015)

Subscribe → Talley Farms Newsletter

NOVO NEWSLETTER

"The Farmers' Market Cookbook is now available for purchase! Check out dozens of delicious recipes from Chefs around SLO County, including Chef Ben Richardson, Chef Shaun Behrens (Luna Red), and Chef William Ouderkirk (Robin's Restaurant)."

—Novo Restaurant
(Newsletter sent December 4, 2015)

Subscribe → Novo Newsletter

LUNA RED NEWSLETTER

"The Farmers' Market Cookbook is now available for purchase! Check out dozens of delicious recipes from Chefs around SLO County, including Chef Shaun Behrens, Chef Ben Richardson (Novo), and Chef William Ouderkirk (Robin's Restaurant)."

—Luna Red
(Newsletter sent December 3, 2015)

Subscribe → Luna Red Newsletter

SAN LUIS OBISPO VACATIONS

"With the holiday season quickly approaching, the yearly stress of gift giving begins. But don’t worry… we’ve got you covered with nifty gifts ideas, unique to SLO. Whether you’re looking for a hostess gift or planning presents for the holidays, we’ve got a wide range of ideas for everyone on your list!

FOODIES: San Luis Obispo Farmers’ Market Cookbook contains 60 seasonal recipes and 40 short stories from local contributors such as Big Sky Café, Mama’s Meatball, Sally Loo’s, Novo and more. Made possible by Kickstarter, this is a truly one-of-a-kind Central Coast find."

—San Luis Obispo Vacations
(December 2, 2015)

Full article → San Luis Obispo Holiday Gift List 2015

RUTIZ FAMILY FARMS NEWSLETTER

"Local writer, Kendra Aronson, will be at the farm stand this Friday (December 4, 2015) selling and signing her newly published book. The San Luis Obispo Farmers' Market Cookbook: Simple Seasonal Recipes & Short Stories from the Central Coast of California features 60 beautiful recipes and 40 short stories on local farmers, food artisans, and farm-to-table chefs in SLO County. Rutiz Farms is featured in the book, as well as Jerry's Mint Tea recipe. The books are $35/copy and make great holiday gifts!"

—Rutiz Family Farms
(Newsletter sent December 1, 2015)

Subscribe → Rutiz Family Farms Newsletter

GENERAL STORE PASO NEWSLETTER

"Book launch for SLO Farmers' Market Cookbook by Kendra Aronson. Join us December 3rd 5:30-7:30 p.m. as we celebrate Kendra's new cookbook at the General Store! Enjoy some light bites while Kendra stops by the store for a book signing. Just in time for the holidays!"

—General Store Paso
(Newsletter sent November 30, 2015)

Subscribe → General Store Paso Newsletter

THE STATION SLO
NEWSLETTER

"We are so pleased to host Kendra Aronson for a pop-up shop and book signing featuring her newly released SLO Farmers' Market Cookbook. Come chat with Kendra, taste some local wines (a rarity here at The Station), and sample some fantastic olive oil from Olio 23."

—The Station SLO
(Newsletter sent November 25, 2015)

Subscribe → The Station SLO Newsletter

NEW TIMES SLO

"The restaurant will hold a book signing for the local author of The SLO Farmers' Market Cookbook, Kendra Aronson, on December 12 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. SLO Provisions, located at 1255 Monterey Street in SLO."

—New Times SLO
(in print November 19–26, 2015)

Full article → Cluckin' on the run: SLO Provisions' to-go
rotisserie meals offer unfettered freedom

GENERAL STORE PASO NEWSLETTER

"Book signing with Kendra Aronson (Farmers' Market Cookbook) Dec 3"

—General Store Paso
(Newsletter sent November 18, 2015)

Subscribe → General Store Paso Newsletter

EDIBLE SLO

"Be sure to share a copy of Kendra Aronson's The San Luis Obispo Farmers' Market Cookbook with all the aspiring cooks in your life. It's full of beautiful photos, tasty recipes, and year-round inspiration. She also offers farmers' market tote bags that showcase the market map for all of SLO County."

—Edible SLO
(Holidays 2015 issue)

Full article → Edible SLO

CAL POLY MAGAZINE

"Kendra Aronson (Modern Languages and Literatures, ’09) is the writer, photographer, designer and self-publisher of “The San Luis Obispo Farmers’ Market Cookbook: Simple Seasonal Recipes & Short Stories from the Central Coast of California.” The cookbook is inspired by and showcases the food growers and farm-to-table chefs of San Luis Obispo County. Learn more at slofarmersmarketcookbook.com."

—Cal Poly Magazine
(Fall 2015 issue)

Full article → Alumni Class Notes: College of Liberal Arts

MUSTANG NEWS

"Aronson is a local artist who created The San Luis Obispo Farmers’ Market Cookbook."

—Mustang News
(October 3, 2015)

Full article → Art After Dark: When the sun goes down, the art comes out

MUSTANG NEWS "CAL POLY ALUMNA LAUNCHES COMMUNITY COOKBOOK"

"To gather the recipes and interviews, Aronson frequented farmers’ markets in the county and approached individual vendors and farm-to-table chefs.

Lori Heal, owner of Mama’s Preserves, said Aronson came to her with the idea of incorporating Heal’s jams into the cookbook. “She’s just like a ray of sunshine,” Heal said. “I just hit it off with her right away.”

The cookbook features 60 recipes, most of which were provided by about 40 different food growers and artisans across the Central Coast. The recipes are organized by season—with 15 recipes per season, which are then subdivided into recipes for breakfast, light bites, lunch, dinner and dessert. The cookbook also includes 40 short stories, interviews and profiles of farmers, food artisans and farm-to-table chefs.

“We have the ability, and really, the honor, to shake the hand that feeds us here on the Central Coast,” Aronson said.

With about 20 weekly farmers’ markets across the county, Aronson emphasized that everyone should be taking advantage of farm-to-table eating options. By doing so, she said San Luis Obispo County can continue to grow a “vibrant food community.”

“They put so much care into their products and we’re lucky enough that we can meet them and support them,” Aronson said.

—Mustang News
(September 13, 2015)

Full article → Cal Poly alumna launches community cookbook

805 LIVING "PROGRESSIVE PRODUCE"

"Kendra Aronson set out to self-publish The San Luis Obispo Farmers' Market Cookbook: Simple Seasonal Recipes & Short Stories from the Central Coast (December 2015; slofarmersmarketcookbook.com) in the spirit of creating what she calls "a community keepsake that will inspire folks to shake hands with their SLOcal farmers." The compilation of recipes includes stories and interviews from Central Coast farmers, purveyors, and chefs such as Chris Kobayashi of Artisan in Paso Robles and Brian Collins of Ember in Arroyo Grande."

—805 Living
(September 2015 issue)

Full article → Progressive Produce (page 93)

VISITSLO.COM'S LIVE LIKE A LOCAL SERIES:
"HOW TO COOK
FARM-TO-TABLE"

"Kendra launched a Kickstarter campaign in late July with the goal to raise seed funding to partially pay for the publishing of the book. She reached that goal on August 5 and has continued her push to help further fund the production.

The Kickstarter campaign features incentives for people who pledge a certain amount of money to help Kendra reach her goal, including: signed copies of the cookbook, a hand-cooked meal by Kendra, a tote bag, or a handwritten thank you card.

Kendra has already met her $12,000 goal, but she isn’t stopping there. Join Kendra on her mission to cover the complete cost of her cookbooks’ production, support local businesses, and get your hands on some farm-to-table recipes in the process!"

—Visit SLO's "Live Like a Local"
(August 20, 2015)

Full article → How To Cook Farm-to-Table

EDIBLE SLO CALENDAR

AUGUST  27 "Last day to pre-order a copy of The San Luis Obispo Farmers' Market Cookbook. Visit slofarmersmarketcookbook.com to pre-order your copy! "

OCTOBER 2 "Visit Kreuzberg on Higuera (downtown SLO) 6–9 p.m. for the Art After Dark opening reception—hosted by Kendra Aronson, author of The San Luis Obispo Farmers' Market Cookbook."

NOVEMBER 1 "Photography art show at Ember Restaurant (Arroyo Grande) featuring portraits of farmers by Kendra Aronson—writer, photographer, and designer of The San Luis Obispo Farmers' Market Cookbook."

—Edible SLO
(Harvest Issue, August–December 2015)

Full issue → Edible SLO

CAL POLY ALUMNI

"Here's a project that will remind you of home, or SLOme as the young alumni like to call it...a SLO Farmers' Market Cookbook! OF COURSE this was written by one of our own—alumna Kendra Aronson (Modern Languages & Literature '09)"

—Cal Poly Alumni
(August 14, 2015)

Follow on Facebook → Cal Poly Alumni

EDIBLE SLO NEWSLETTER

"Edible San Luis Obispo is proud to be part of the launch of a great Kickstarter campaign for The San Luis Obispo Farmers' Market Cookbook. Kendra Aronson has put together a very 'loving the local' cookbook of fresh-from-the-farmers'-market recipes. If all goes accordingly for the very organized Kendra, the cookbooks will be ready for the holiday season. Pre-order yours today, along with a farmers' market map and tote bag."

—Edible SLO
(Harvest Newsletter sent August 13, 2015)

Subscribe → Edible SLO Newsletter

KRUSH 92.5 "A QUICK BITE WITH DAVID WILSON"

"Daily 15-minute radio show on all things food, heard throughout the Central Coast at noon and 9pm Monday-Friday on The Krush 92.5 FM, we try foods from around the world and around your corner...David talks with Kendra Aronson about her Kickstarter campaign to fund her beautiful SLO Farmers Market Cookbook."

—KRUSH 92.5
(on the air August 11, 2015)

Listen live → KRUSH 92.5

BCA FYI

"Writer, photographer designer, self publisher and all around engaging Kendra Aronson’s San Luis Obispo Farmers’ Market Cookbook is moving closer to reality. Her Kickstarter campaign drive has attracted 228 contributors and surpassed its $12,000 funding goal. The campaign runs until August 27. Order a copy (or two or three) of the gorgeous cookbook that makes a great gift and helps a dream come true."

—BCA FYI
(August 10, 2015)

Read the full article → BCA FYI Seen & Heard

FARMSTEAD ED NEWSLETTER

"Local writer, photographer and designer Kendra Aronson launches Kickstarter campaign to fund self-publishing printing costs of SLO Farmers’ Market Cookbook. To help make this cookbook a tangible reality, please visit slofarmersmarketcookbook.com to pledge your support."

—FARMstead Ed
(August Newsletter sent August 7, 2015)

Join their mailing list → FARMstead Ed

LUNA RED NEWSLETTER

"We are very happy to be contributors to Farmers' Market Cookbook: Simple Seasonal Recipes & Short Stories from the Central Coast of California. Please join us in helping local author Kendra Aronson with her Kickstarter campaign to get this fantastic cookbook produced!"

—Luna Red
(August Newsletter sent August 6, 2015)

Join their mailing list → Luna Red

TOLOSA PRESS AD
 

Print advertisement in all 3 Tolosa Press papers:

• SLO City News
• Coast News
• Bay News

—Tolosa Press
(in print August 6–August 12, 2015)

KRUSH 92.5
"LIQUID LUNCH LIVE" INTERVIEW WITH THE CORK DORKS

—KRUSH 92.5
(on the air August 5, 2015)

Listen live → KRUSH 92.5

NOVO RESTAURANT NEWSLETTER

"We are very happy to be contributors to the SLO Farmers' Market Cookbook: Simple Seasonal Recipes & Short Stories from the Central Coast of California. Please join us in helping local author Kendra Aronson with her Kickstarter campaign."

—Novo Restaurant
(August Newsletter sent August 5, 2015)

Join their mailing list → Novo Restaurant

NEW TIMES SLO

"On any given day, you’ll find the curly-haired writer, photographer, and self-publisher stooped over the cukes or heirloom tomatoes, smiling wide and gabbing with farmers about the fruits of their labors. Just look for the DIY “farmers’ market” tote bag slung over her shoulder, showing a geographical map of each market. Yes, she’s actually a farmers’ market super fan.

It’s this wild fandom that inspired Aronson to create the SLO Farmers’ Market Cookbook, a colorful collection of simple seasonal recipes and short stories. This week, she launched a Kickstarter campaign for the project, which is completely finished save for the pesky “publishing” part. Aronson hopes that local people will throw down a few bucks to support a local book that—in turn—supports local ranchers, growers, chefs, and restaurants. Can you get more local than that?

For more information on the 'SLO Farmers’ Market Cookbook' and its multi-tasking, photographing, produce-loving author, visit slofarmersmarketcookbook.com. There you will also find the link to her Kickstarter campaign, so check it out if you want to see the project come to life. Backers will snag one of those sweet farmers’ market tote bags as well as the book itself." 

—New Times SLO
(in print July 30–August 5, 2015)

Full article → Cook like a local with 'SLO Farmers' Market Cookbook'

DOWNTOWN SLO FARMERS' MARKET WEEKLY "DISCOVER LOCAL FLAVOR" EMAIL NEWSLETTER

"The cookbook features 196 pages of 60 seasonal recipes and 40 short stories, interviews, and profiles of farmers, food artisans, and farm-to-table chefs. In the spirit of a creating a collaborative community-driven cookbook, the majority of the recipes are provided by the food growers and crafters themselves to showcase the true taste of the Central Coast. Her goal is to raise $12k by August 27 to cover the up-front printing costs through the use of Kickstarter."

—SLO Downtown Farmers' Market /
San Luis Obispo Downtown Association
(weekly newsletter: July 29–August 4, 2015)
(weekly newsletter: August 5–August 11, 2015) 

Subscribe to their the weekly newsletters ↓ 
SLO Downtown Farmers' Market "Discover Local Flavor" Newsletter

SAN LUIS OBISPO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 

"Aronson’s goal is to raise $12k by August 27 to cover the up-front printing costs. Kickstarter is an online funding platform to help bring creative projects to life; financial supporters who back Kickstarter projects are offered rewards in exchange for their pledges. Rewards for the SLO Farmers’ Market Cookbook Kickstarter campaign include pre-orders of the cookbook, market tote bags, market maps, and more. Kickstarter is an all-or-nothing funding platform. To make this cookbook a tangible printed reality please visit slofarmersmarketcookbook.com to pledge your support."

—SLO Chamber of Commerce
(July 29, 2015)

Full press release → Local launches  SLO Farmers' Market Cookbook Kickstarter campaign

CENTRAL COAST CRITIC

"After watching this very well made video about Kendra Aronson and her admirable project, I wanted to give her my support. Check it out and see if you, too, feel it’s a worthy cause!

You can see why I was so happy to be able to support Kendra in her brilliant endeavor that helps our SLO County Farmers’ Markets, restaurants, and the chefs who embrace farm-to-table cuisine!

Here’s the link to the video with details about the project, and links so you can pledge your support and/or pre-order the cookbook!
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1499594766/the-san-luis-obispo-farmers-market-cookbook"

—Kathy Marcks Hardesty of Central Coast Critic
(July 28, 2015)

Full article → Chef's Corner: A SLO Farmers' Market Cookbook

RUBY ROSE

"Our local writer, photographer, and designer—and Ruby Crew alum!—Kendra Aronson launched her Kickstarter campaign TODAY to fund self-publishing printing costs of her SLO Farmers’ Market Cookbook!!! Get a preview of what's inside below—then don't forget to pledge support while gaining some great rewards, too!"

—Ruby Rose
(July 27, 2015)

Full blog post → SLO Farmers' Market Cookbook Launch

KCBX RADIO INTERVIEW

"It’s peak farmers' market season and there’s a greater variety of fruits and vegetables than really any other time of the year. Yet we’re pretty spoiled here on the Central Coast, with high quality produce all year round. Jordan Bell is joined in the studio by Kendra Aronson who is preparing to share many of the aspects of the several farmers markets on the Central Coast. Aronson is a local writer, photographer, designer and soon-to-be self-publisher of The San Luis Obispo Farmer’s Market Cookbook."

—KCBX
(July 22, 2015)

90.1 SLO | 89.5 Santa Barbara | 91.7 Paso Robles—Salinas
91.1 Cayucos | 95.1 Lompoc | 90.9 Santa Ynez, Avila, Cambria

SAN LUIS OBISPO  CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 
RIBBON CUTTING

"The SLO Chamber welcomes new member, Kendra Aronson Creative Studio with a ribbon cutting ceremony. Launched in 2014, Kendra Aronson Creative Studio provides small businesses and creative entrepreneurs with an array of services including; writing, photography, and design."

—SLO Chamber of Commerce
(July 17, 2015)

Full story → New Member: Kendra Aronson Creative Studio

 

"Kendra Aronson is the author, photographer, and designer of The San Luis Obispo Farmers' Market Cookbook; support her Kickstarter campaign July 27–August 27."

—SLO Tribune
(July 19, 2015)

Newspaper clipping → SLO Tribune

RUBY ROSE

"One of our sweet Ruby Crew members has been working 'round the clock on her SLO Farmers' Market Cookbook—and this last week celebrated her own birthday by launching her online shop! As the book is set to publish the end of this year, be privy to her creative teasers with a SLO farmers' market tote bags, letterpress market maps, and thank you cards. We are so proud and excited to see another one of our Crew exploding into their passions, check out these goods and make sure to snap some swag at her online shop. Hip, hip hooray for Kendra!""

—Ruby Rose
(May 8, 2015)

Full story → Hip, Hip Hooray for Kendra Aronson