In celebration of AAPI month, we’re thrilled to spotlight Australian-born, LA-based chef and food stylist, Sandy Ho—an artist in the kitchen with a passport full of flavors.

Sandy’s cultural roots and unique experiences combine to bring a splash of color and Vietnamese nostalgia to the culinary scene. Initially on a path to become an artist, Sandy found that her creativity was meant for the kitchen as a result of working in restaurants to pay for art supplies. Inspired by a childhood spent in the kitchen with family—wrapping, rolling, cooking and eating together—she spent the initial years post-graduation mastering the culinary arts in Melbourne. From there, she embarked on a globe-trotting journey, curating one-of-a-kind food experiences for guests across Italy, Croatia, the British Virgin Islands, Sardinia, Greece, and Thailand. The experience gave her a deep appreciation for local farmers and the seasonality of ingredients.

Upon landing in Los Angeles, she launched Sandita’s—a creative, monthly dinner series where each meal is a testament to her ethos of fostering positivity through shared flavors and meals. Since then, Sandy has been working closely with brands and chefs to help bring their food experience to life with signature events, pop ups and unique food styling.

You can check out more of Sandy’s work on Creatively and @hellocreatively on Instagram.

What is the first creative project you remember?

I have always loved diving into my imagination and using colors and patterns and light. Even as a child, I would cut and reshape my mothers clothing very much to her dismay, I would draw and paint abstract imaginings on leaves and on the back of my dad’s work papers and always found myself in the kitchen with my family playing with different colored herbs and vegetables like toys.

Describe your aesthetic in three words.

Whimsical. Bold. Gentle.

What was the most fulfilling collaboration you’ve worked on?

Cultured Magazine Art Basel Dinner in 2021, I loved working with Sarah and Rebecca. And they allowed me to really go the distance with my creativity on the dishes.

Do you think creativity is something you’re born with, or something you’re taught?

I think it’s both! You have to want to tap into that side of yourself and of course, the world around you and the company you keep will always continue to shape how you voice your creativity.

What do you know now that you wish you knew at the start of your career?

That I will always make the right decision if the decision is for myself 🙂

How do you cultivate strong relationships with clients?

Listen, listen, listen! And be brave enough to share your expertise in a kind and open way.

One hundred years from now, what do you hope people write about your work?

Sandy’s work was a fully-committed, honest re-telling of her life and all the colors she experienced along the way.

Follow @sandyho on Creatively.

Creatively is more than a platform—we’re a creative collective.

Questions or feedback? Email us at feedback@creatively.life