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Featured on Shoutout Colorado: A Little More About My Journey

Author:
Jill Keiken

I’m excited to share that I was recently interviewed by Shoutout Colorado, and the conversation gave me a beautiful chance to reflect on the heart behind Tasty Wandering.

My philosophy: food, wine & meaningful connection

At the core of everything I do — from wine tastings to baking classes — is a belief that connection comes first. My travels and time living overseas taught me that food truly is a universal language. Even when I couldn’t speak the local tongue, sharing a meal brought instant warmth, understanding, and community.

That idea still guides Tasty Wandering today: it’s never just about what’s on the plate or in the glass — it’s about the connection created around the table.

 

How this all began

Long before Tasty Wandering was a business, back when I worked in corporate jobs, I was the one planning team events and showing up with homemade treats or a new dish to share. Cooking and celebrating others has always been a passion of mine.

That passion slowly grew into a food tour company in California, which was featured in publications like Edible East Bay and Visit Tri-Valley. When I returned to Colorado, I dove deeper into wine, eventually earning my WSET Level 3 certification. Blending global flavors, approachable wine education, and heartfelt hospitality naturally evolved into what Tasty Wandering is today.

Now I get to host wine tastings, teach baking and cooking classes, and curate small-bite and dessert menus — all designed to make people feel connected, curious, and completely at ease.

 

Inspired by family & simple hospitality

Some of my favorite childhood memories are baking cookies with my mom during the holidays. She showed me that hosting isn’t about a perfect house or fancy setup — it’s about making people feel welcome and cared for.

That spirit is the foundation of Tasty Wandering. Whether you’re coming to learn, sip, taste, or celebrate, I want you to feel the same comfort and joy I felt in my childhood kitchen.

 

Why I love sharing this story

This interview reminded me why I started Tasty Wandering in the first place: to bring people together through food, wine, and memorable experiences. Every event — from an intimate girls’ night wine tasting to a lively kids’ baking class — is created with intention, warmth, and a genuine desire to help people slow down and savor the moment.

You can read the full article here: shoutoutcolorado.com/meet-jill-keiken

 

Thank you for being part of this community. I’m so grateful for the chance to share what I love with you.

If you’d like to plan your own tasting or private class, I’d love to help you create something delicious and memorable.

‍

Contact me!
Author:
Jill Keiken

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