Hi there! I’m Maxine Holloway, but most folks just call me Max. I’m 47 years old, born and raised in Asheville, North Carolina, where the mountains are as rich with stories as they are with wild herbs. These days, I split my time between running a small supper club out of my home kitchen and teaching local cooking classes that focus on seasonal ingredients and traditional Southern comfort food—with a few global twists.

My love for cooking didn’t come from a fancy culinary school or high-end restaurant job. It started in my grandmother’s kitchen, watching her roll out biscuit dough with strong, floured hands, always humming something low and sweet. She taught me that food is love, and that feeding people is one of the most generous things you can do. I remember the first time I made cornbread that didn’t burn—we danced around the kitchen like I’d won a medal.

Over the years, I’ve burned my fair share of meals, under-seasoned stews, and even once managed to set off the smoke alarm making a simple grilled cheese. But every mistake taught me something. Like the importance of patience when caramelizing onions, or how fresh herbs can turn a basic dish into something memorable. I’ve never been one for strict recipes. I think cooking at home should be about joy and instinct—using what you’ve got, listening to your taste buds, and not being afraid to make a mess.

I’m passionate about helping people feel confident in their kitchens. You don’t need a six-burner stove or a cabinet full of gadgets to cook well. You just need a little curiosity, a willingness to try, and maybe someone cheering you on. I like to think that’s where I come in. Whether it’s through a recipe I share, a story I tell, or a tip that saves you from over-salting your soup, I hope to be that friendly voice in your kitchen.

If you’re ever in Asheville and smell something good wafting through the neighborhood, it might just be me testing out a new twist on chicken and dumplings. Come say hi—I’ll probably hand you a spoon.