Seasonal job in the mountains leads to new life
Another day, another guest blog article, and we’re sticking with the ski and snow theme (with a nice portion of food thrown in!).
Laura’s love of cooking inspired her to take on a seasonal job in the mountains, which shaped her and her family’s future forever, and was the catalyst for a new business and adventure:
Bonjour! I’m Laura. I write a blog about moving to the French Alps with my family.
It’s been a bold move. People say ‘you’re brave’. I sense some think we’re bonkers.
I’ve done this to create a better life for us. To enrich our children’s lives with culture, a new language and plenty of outdoor adventures.
My love for the mountains started at the age of 20.
I was chef de partie at a hotel in the Midlands. We had 3 AA rosettes and going for 1 Michelin. I’d been working full-on, and it was breaking me. I wanted to experience more of life. And knew I could use my cooking skills to help get me there. It just so happened that ski companies were recruiting at this point.
I made my way to London for a cooking interview. It was a dinner party at the director’s house, so pressure was on.
I remember bundling myself on the train loaded with ingredients. I was ready for this! I’d been asked to prepare a birthday cake and a three-course meal. I’d already cooked the cake base, ready to layer with mascarpone, berries and fresh whipped cream – neatly smothered all over. I finished it with piped ‘Happy birthday’ in chocolate.
I heard relatively quickly I’d been accepted. With a placement in Courchevel 1850. To work in a 12-guest chalet, along with a co-host.
That winter embedded great memories for me. It made me realise I could cope on my own. I felt grown-up. And I can honestly say the experience that season has structured my life.
I returned to the UK, after completing a handful of seasons. And happy I did.
My seasonal job in the mountains changed everything. My two children have fond memories of our close family and friends. But now it’s time for a new start: a French start.
To keep up with Laura’s adventures, read her blog.
Business, Seasonal jobs, Seasonal staff, Seasonal work, Ski season, Travel