At Behind the Curtain, we believe in the power of storytelling—how it connects us, challenges perceptions, and celebrates the diverse experiences within the LGBTQ+ community. Over the coming weeks and months, I’ll be publishing a series of blog posts that explore real-life experiences, my personal reflections, and also the role of food in bringing people together.
Cottage Industry, Kitchen & Recipe Ideas – A collection of nostalgic, comforting, and event-inspired dishes to bring people together using traditional techniques and recipes.
Outside Looking In – A thought provoking series on what it feels like to be part of a community that doesn’t always feel like your community.
Guest Writers – Contributions from community members of all backgrounds, offering diverse insights on topics that matter.
Outside Looking In – When You Don’t Feel Part of the Community
Not everyone feels a sense of belonging within the LGBTQ+ community. A whole host of issues such as your looks, weight, self acceptance, even the people around you can affect the feeling of belonging. This interlinked blog series will explore that experience. Whether it's struggling with acceptance - by yourself or others, feeling disconnected from mainstream queer culture, or navigating spaces where you don’t feel seen or even worse want to remain the wallflower desperately trying to burst from the shadows, these blogs will dive into the complexities of inclusion, exclusion, and finding your own place.
By sharing real stories and perspectives, I’m aiming to create space for those who often feel like outsiders and foster conversations about how we build a more inclusive, understanding community.
Cottage Industry, Kitchen & Recipe Ideas - Honouring Tradition & Community Through Food
Food is more than just sustenance - it’s a connection to our past, a way to bring people together, and a form of self-care. In our Cottage Kitchen series, I’ll explore the time proven techniques our grandparents might have used—preserving, pickling, slow cooking, and making the most of fresh, simple ingredients and eating with the seasons as we lean more towards self sustenance and grow your own
As a team we’re stepping away from the processed and rediscovering the joy of food made with care, patience using traditional methods. Whether it’s a homemade chutney to share with friends or stash away in the pantry for winter months, a slow-cooked meal that fills a home with warmth, or a dish that sparks memories of childhood, these recipes are about more than just cooking - they’re about experience, community, and enjoying food as it was meant to be.
I’ll also be sharing ideas on how to bring people together through food, whether that’s hosting a dinner with chosen family, preparing something special for an event, or simply taking the time to slow down and appreciate a meal. Food has always been central to our gatherings, and now, I'm inviting you to bring those flavours into your own kitchen.
Guest Writers – Diverse Voices, Real Perspectives
Alongside our core series, I’ll be inviting guest bloggers to share their experiences, insights, and opinions on a wide range of topics. From mental health and relationships to activism, resilience, and personal growth, these guest posts will bring fresh perspectives from individuals across different walks of life.
Our contributors will include activists, creatives, professionals, and everyday people with a story to tell or a viewpoint to share. By amplifying these voices, I hope to spark meaningful conversations and deepen our collective understanding of the challenges and triumphs within our community.
Join the Conversation
I’m excited to embark on this journey of storytelling, reflection, and shared experiences. Whether you’re here for the personal narratives, the insightful guest contributions, or the comforting recipes, I hope you’ll find something that resonates with you.
My first posts will be launching soon—so stay tuned, and if you have a story or perspective you’d love to share, I’d love to hear from you!
Thanks
Steve
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