About the Instructor ~ Laura Vida Thompson

My love and interest in cooking began when I was young and was the assistant cook to my Mom…  Out of 4 girls, I was the one who enjoyed being in the kitchen the most.

In college I worked for a large 4 star hotel and was a prep and line cook for the restaurant and catering department; learning an abundance about the basics of cooking.  After college I worked for Starbucks Coffee Co. and was the gourmet food buyer and product developer where my love and appreciation for quality food and ingredients really grew.  I also worked and consulted for Caribou Coffee, Tully’s Coffee and Seattle’s Best Coffee (yes, I do like/love coffee).

I started my own cookie company, Firefly Fandango in 2002.  We created high end decorated cookies & candies; selling to large retailers such as Williams-Sonoma, Crate and Barrel and Marshall Fields.  I sold the business in 2007 and began to do some consulting work for Sur La Table where I am presently a Culinary Instructor and teach classes in their Kirkland store.

I love to spend time in the kitchen and entertain friends and family. I believe that food slows down your life for a brief amount of time and puts you in the moment.  I find a lot of joy cooking with my 3 children and hope to have the opportunity to cook with yours.