When executives at Food Network asked if I would consider appearing in their first-ever scripted TV movie, I thought they had accidentally reached out to the wrong person. I have no acting experience, after all, and most of my on-screen time has been on TV with multiple sticks of butter in my hands. I may have managed to get more comfortable cooking for cameras over the past ten-plus years, but acting? Definitely not something that's ever been in the cards for me.
But then they elaborated: It would be a Christmas movie, they explained, set in a town called Peppermint Hollow, and I would have a relatively small role. Oh, and the part? Well, let's just say the apple didn't fall too far from the tree on that.
Long story short, I didn’t have to think about it for long—I said yes, and the movie airs Friday, November 19! Here are some behind-the-scenes shots of the fun.
My Sweet Bakery
In the movie, I play a bakery owner named (are you ready?) Bee! As luck would have it, a new bakery was weeks from opening in the Utah town where we shot the movie, and the owner let the movie production use the space for several days. It was decorated so beautifully, it actually gave me some fun ideas for The Merc!
Special Delivery
In my first scene, I’m delivering a basket of goodies for a family’s Christmas party. Fun fact: All the treats in this basket are recipes I’ve made on my show!
On Location
The town of Bountiful, UT, played the part of Peppermint Hollow. It was sweet and idyllic, just as a Christmas movie town should be.
Romantic Lead
Haha, got your attention, didn’t I? Just kidding, no love scenes or anything (😂)—but I did get to spend time shooting with Lonzo Liggins, who plays a real estate agent in the film. We danced together at the fictional Christmas party, which took place in a real barn. I had to choose between a green formal dress and this green satin shirt with leather pants, and I was glad I chose the pants! I had enough to think about with memorizing my lines without having to also worry about fitting into a slinky dress.
All Business
This is Aaron O’Connell, who plays the main role of Noah. Here Noah is presenting Bee with his business idea for turning a mint farm into an empire. You’ll have to watch to see what happens!
In Closing
All in all, I had the BEST time filming the movie, and being on a movie set was really a fun, one-of-a-kind experience. I was flying home after filming was over, reflecting that I'd love to continue my big time acting career...but only if I only appear in Christmas movies. 😂
Okay, okay...I won't quit my day job! But I sure did have a magical, merry time.
Hope you enjoy!!
