Founder

Jennifer Drew-Banister

For me, food has always been about connection. A coming together to celebrate each other, the seasons, and special occasions. Over the years, this has also become to mean connection to self and how we FEEL. 

 I believe in the power of this connection, and that any journey is better traveled with someone to support you along the way, which is why I created The Bountiful Chef.

 I am inspired by the seasons, local produce, the personalities of our clients, and COLOR(!).  

​In my own health journey food continues to play a huge role - we are what we eat! I have experimented over the years with more restrictive diets, and continue to evaluate how I feel best while working with trusted practitioners in functional and conventional medicine. 

​I was diagnosed with Hashimoto's Thyroiditis while my husband and I were going through IVF and understand the overwhelm that comes with a new diagnosis and also the importance of a strong foundation of food and lifestyle to balance that. We are finally on the other side of IVF and just celebrated our baby boy's first birthday. Check out @bountifulchef for updates, and a look into what is on my family's table and happening in our client's kitchens. 

​We are currently based in Calgary, AB, and I received my culinary training from the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology. Originally from the United States, in my "previous life" I was an actor and musician living in New York City. That is where I met my husband, John, and when I'm not cooking, you probably can find me in a hot yoga class, chasing after my son, Jack, or laughing, singing, and playing music with John.

​Food is so beautifully personal. I look forward to hearing your story, knowing more about your relationship with food and finding bountiful ways to work together.