Blogger Spotlight: A Sweet Potato Pie
A life living off of "student loans and love" first compelled Callie Washer, a Southern belle, current Colorado resident, and young mom of three little ones, to get serious about saving money. Through her savvy and resourceful couponing, Washer rose to fame on TLC's hit show Extreme Couponing.
She gained some well-earned recognition (she's so good at couponing that sometimes stores owe her money) and a dedicated following. Her blog, A Sweet Potato Pie, began as a couponing-specific money-saving blog but has since transformed into a food and lifestyle site where Washer shares some of her favorite recipes and experiences with her family.
This week, Washer is our featured blogger; check out her interview below:
The Daily Meal: What is the mission of your blog?
Callie Washer: To share my love of cooking and traveling.
How'd you get started?
I was featured on three episodes of TLC's Extreme Couponing and then started a couponing blog. I love to save money, but cooking and food are my real passions, so two years ago I turned it into a food blog.
What are some foods you can't live without?
Pimento cheese, honey, and any type of bread.
Are there any foods you can't stand?
Once I tried octopus ink. It was awful and turned my whole mouth black.
What is your proudest post?
What is your biggest blog blunder?
Not monetizing my blog for the first two years, so I was basically working for free. Luckily, I had a few bloggers take me under their wing and show me how to turn my hobby into a side business.
Do you have a memorable comment from a reader?
When I first started, my mom would comment at least once a day so I knew at least one person was reading. It's nice when family backs you up no matter what.
What are some other blogs you love?
Damn Delicious and Pioneer Woman
What are some food apps you love?
Foodgawker and Pinterest are some of my favorite places to get recipes.
What is the best thing about blogging?
Being able to share my recipes with the world and getting to travel.
The worst thing?
Leaving out an ingredient in one of my recipes!
Is there a recipe you're currently obsessed with?
White Chocolate Crème Brûlée.
What would even your most loyal followers be surprised to learn about you?
I was on a kid's game show on Nickelodeon when I was in middle school. I won a trip to space camp!
What are five of your all-time favorite posts?