Welcome to Life With Paula
Hey there! I’m Paula Hernandez, the creator, chef, and storyteller behind Life With Paula. First of all, let me say how grateful I am that you’ve landed here—it means you care about delicious food and the little moments that make life special. For me, cooking isn’t just about following a recipe; it’s about weaving together memories, flavors, and joy. I believe that every kitchen, no matter how big or small, is a place where love and connection start.
Over the past decade, my journey has taken me from tiny apartment kitchens to competing in regional cook-offs and being featured in online food magazines. My recipes have won ribbons at local fairs, I’ve had the pleasure to collaborate with nutritionists and other food bloggers, and last year, my signature Tres Leches Cake was featured in the “Sweet Treats” section of Foodista! Along the way, I’ve learned that it isn’t just about perfect plating—it’s about sharing, learning, and inviting everyone to the table, no matter their experience level.
One thing I’ve realized after years in the food world is that the most memorable meals are the simple ones you share with loved ones. And that’s the heart of Life With Paula: celebrating everyday food, inspiring you to cook more at home, and reminding you that anyone can create beautiful, flavorful dishes.
How It All Started
Food has always been my love language. Growing up in a bustling Cuban-Mexican family, my earliest memories are of waking up to the scent of cinnamon in Abuela’s kitchen, rolling out dough with my mom, and sneaking tastes of her arroz con leche. I didn’t realize it then, but those moments planted the seeds for a lifelong passion.
The real turning point came in college, when I started inviting friends over for “Breakfast Saturdays.” I’d scour cookbooks and experiment with new ideas, always trying to put my own spin on family classics. The laughter, the messes, and the sheer fun of those mornings taught me how food can break down walls and create friendships. That joy is something I want to share with the world.
I started Life With Paula because I wanted to document the recipes that shaped me—and to show others that cooking at home can be rewarding, affordable, and totally doable. Whether it’s a 20-minute breakfast or a showstopper dessert, my goal is to make cooking feel accessible and joyful for everyone.
Why You Can Trust Me
I’ve spent over 12 years immersed in the world of home cooking—first as an eager amateur, then as a seasoned home chef, and now as a trusted voice in the recipe blogging space. My experience spans personal family gatherings, competitive events, food photography workshops, and professional recipe development for online magazines. I’m always hungry (pun intended) for new knowledge: I routinely test every recipe, sometimes tweaking it five or six times before it lands on the blog.
Quality is my non-negotiable. Before anything appears here, it’s been tried, tasted, and tested by friends, family, and even a few picky eaters. My process always starts with research, moves to hands-on testing (lots of floury countertops!), and ends with careful documentation so you get all the tips and tricks I’ve learned along the way.
As much as I love food, I also love photography—because I know we eat with our eyes first. Every shot on Life With Paula is styled and captured by me, so you see the real deal, not just a styled fantasy. No filters or fake food—just honest, approachable recipes you can make at home.
When I’m not in the kitchen, you’ll find me hiking local trails, exploring farmers’ markets, or curled up with a food memoir. I believe every meal tells a story, and I’m endlessly inspired by the people, places, and traditions I discover on my adventures.
Staying curious is my secret ingredient: I’m always exploring global cuisines, taking cooking classes, and connecting with other food lovers. Everything I learn, I bring back to Life With Paula, so you get the very best of what I discover.
Let’s Connect!
Nothing makes me happier than hearing from fellow foodies! If you want to chat, swap recipes, or just say hi, you can always reach me by email at: [email protected].
If you’re on Pinterest, join me there for all my latest recipes and inspiration: LifeWithPaula on Pinterest.
Thank you for being part of this delicious community—don’t be shy, reach out and share your own kitchen stories! Cooking is always more fun when we do it together.
Meet the Team
1. Paula Hernandez – Founder & Recipe Developer
Paula is the heart and soul behind Life With Paula, crafting recipes and writing stories inspired by her Cuban-Mexican heritage. With over a decade of experience and a knack for making anyone feel at home in the kitchen, Paula believes food is all about connection. Outside the kitchen, she loves hiking, street photography, and perfecting her coffee art.
2. Sofia Martinez – Content Editor
Sofia ensures every recipe is crystal-clear and fun to read. With a background in journalism and a lifelong obsession with desserts, she’s always testing new sweets. Her attention to detail guarantees that every post is reliable and mouthwatering. She loves beach walks and chocolate chip cookies.
3. Marcus Lee – Photographer & Food Stylist
Marcus brings every dish to life through vibrant photography and creative styling. His work has been featured in several online food publications. With an eye for color and a love of rustic tablescapes, Marcus makes sure every image is as inviting as the recipe itself. He’s also a passionate home gardener.
4. Jade Nguyen – Nutrition Consultant
Jade reviews recipes to ensure they’re balanced and nutritious, drawing on her background in dietetics and love for fresh, whole foods. She believes healthy meals should never be boring and helps translate nutrition into delicious everyday cooking. Outside work, Jade is an avid cyclist and amateur baker.