Meet Shuang Shuang (aka Shuangy): Food blogger and founder of Shuangy’s Kitchen Sink, a platform for all things health and wellness, and home to some of the most INCREDIBLE looking recipes you will ever see. Shuangy left the corporate world to pursue her passion for food and wellness, with the result of explosive success and growth (I mean, check out these delectable creations).
Shuangy walked us through her journey in transitioning her hobby as a food blogger into a full time career, and how she maintains a well-balanced and healthy lifestyle despite her busy schedule. She even shares some food blogging hacks for anyone who is looking to take their blog to the next level. Taking that risky entrepreneurial leap has really paid off, and it definitely didn’t happen without some hard work, perseverance and drool-worthy recipes!
First off, can you give us a look into your career as a healthy food blogger and how you got to where you are today?
Shuang Shuang: Health and wellness have always been a big part of my life ever since growing up in China. It’s a part of me, and it’s my passion. I started Shuangy’s Kitchen Sink two years ago while I was still working my corporate job. Ironically enough, I was the last person in my friend group to get Instagram, and would never have thought that I would put myself “out there” or that I would ever “influence” people in any way.
Since I started SKS on Instagram, I’ve been very lucky. I quickly found a supportive community that encourages me to do what I love to do everyday. I work hard to be as consistent as possible in coming up with fresh and new content. Most importantly, the learning process never stops! I’m constantly working to improve my content -- photography, recipes, and authenticity are hard work! But it’s never too hard when you love doing it so much.
Fast forward to the end of last year (2018), when I decided to take a chance and I turned my “hobby” into a “career.” I still don’t even consider this a job because I love it so much! I always thought that “jobs” and “careers” are supposed to be a grind.
What is the biggest lesson you learned in launching your own blog and how did you learn it?
SS: I finally launched my website at the end of last year, which opened up an additional platform for me. It allows me to share more detailed recipes, photos, and other fun things! The biggest lesson I learned -- HIRE someone who knows what he/she’s doing. I get it, we don’t always have the funds to hire an expert, but now looking back, I know that I wasted so much time on learning how to do things myself. I also ended up fixing the issues from the “not so expert” person I hired (because I wanted to save money). Choose carefully where you place your value. Looking back, I know that I could have better spent the time getting a couple more sponsorships if I had hired an expert.
What’s your FAVORITE 30-minute meal for an on-the-go lifestyle?
SS: Oven Roasted Chicken. It takes 20 minutes and has been my meal prep staple to throw together in a salad, sandwich or buddha bowl.
You seamlessly juggle being a #Girlboss blogger while living out an inspirational wellness-centered lifestyle -- and you’re newly married! You have a full plate of amazing things going on, so what does balance mean to you and how do you practice it?
SS: I’m still looking for that balance. To be honest, working from home sounds glamorous, but the “over-working” just sneaks up on you. My husband complains sometimes that I’m always on my computer (at my old job, this would NEVER happen haha). But on weekends, or during our date nights, I always try to be very present (which is why I rarely have photos of myself dining out!). Just to be transparent, my husband works a lot of hours (in the office and at home), so it’s kind of nice that we’re both workaholics haha. However, our puppy, Muffin, definitely keep us in check with the work and play balance!
Your recipe creations are equally gorgeous as they are delicious. Do you have any food creation hacks or photography tips for aspiring foodies and food bloggers?
SS: Always use natural light! I try to keep my photos and recipes easy, simple and overflowing. For example, put a bottle cap on the bottom of your bowl to make the oatmeal look fuller. Add an extra scoop of almond butter, and use a smaller plate.
What does Shuangy eat in a day?
SS: Breakfast: Smoothie, oatmeal or waffles (yup, just like what my feed is filled with).
Lunch: Meal-prepped buddha bowl.
Dinner: Don’t laugh -- Always eggs.
You’re constantly sharing brand new healthy, delicious and accessible recipes with real food ingredients. How do you prioritize health and wellness with a busy lifestyle?
SS: That is a really good question. I’m lucky enough that I rarely get sick. Since I took blogging full time, I do get less sleep, so I think the most important thing is to keep in mind that taking a break doesn’t necessarily have to be a setback. Think of it this way: No car can keep going without stopping for gas!
What’s your number one tip for anyone who wants to achieve gr8ness in their lives?
SS: Celebrate the SMALL wins. Find supportive friends and family who make you feel like you are the most capable person in the whole world for what you do.
Just for fun: You're stuck on an island and can only take three food items with you. What would they be?
SS: Almond Butter, apple and avocado.
What’s your favorite way to eat gr8nola?
SS: Topped on a smoothie or oatmeal. Or to just dump it in my mouth from the bag!
