Healing mind and body, one meal at a time.
Hi, I’m Kayla — mother of two, mental health professional and head kitchen mess-maker.
The Family Food Project is a place where families can connect with food, as a source of nourishment and healing with ease. Whether you are just starting your journey, or looking for a new rhythm, this is a judgement-free space built for support.
At The Family Food Project, we believe:
Food is a powerful tool for healing — physical, emotional, and relational
Every family deserves support that’s personalized, not prescriptive
Nourishment should feel empowering, not overwhelming
Progress matters more than perfection
Mealtime should support connection, not stress
Wellness is a balance of mind and body
Real Support for Real Life
I support families in a variety of ways — from your baby’s first bite of food to reworking your grocery list. Custom plans help you reach sustainable goals. Your needs shape the plan, not the other way around.
Gentle, nourishing guidance for starting solids with confidence — tailored to your family’s preferences and pace.
Baby’s First Foods Plan
Grocery & Market Support
Get expert help creating a list for and navigating the grocery store or farmer’s market with ease, clarity, and purpose.
A weekly meal rhythm designed around your time, goals, seasons, and the foods your family actually enjoys.
Custom Meal Planning
Support and skill-building to help you feel capable and calm in the kitchen. Available in-person, through video or live virtual coaching.
Kitchen & Cooking Education
Guidance on safer cookware, food storage, and everyday tools to support your wellness from the inside out.
Non-Toxic Kitchen Recs
“Kayla makes everything feel easier. She has a gift for putting simple, whole food meals together and somehow removes every ounce of overwhelm. And that’s saying a lot coming from someone traditionally very uncomfortable in the kitchen.”
—ROCHELLE S.
Need a Little Dinner Help This Week?
Let’s take one thing off your plate!
Every season, I share a free meal plan filled with real-food dinner ideas that reflect what’s fresh, in season, and actually doable.
Each season’s meal plan includes 5 simple dinners to help you find your rhythm; uncomplicated and customizable, with gentle support from my kitchen to yours.
Creative Work & Collaboration •
Creative Work & Collaboration •
In addition to my work with families, I occasionally partner with brands and creatives on food styling projects and collaborations that align with my values. From cookbook shoots to thoughtful product features, I love bringing real food to life through styling, storytelling, and visual content.
If you’re a brand, publisher, or creative team looking for a food-forward collaborator, I’d love to hear more about your project.
“Working with Kayla Mangione was an absolute gift. She brought a deep sense of calm, creativity, and elegance to every dish she styled for my cookbook. Her presence infused the space with peace and beauty, and her artistic eye elevated every shot. Kayla is incredibly easy to work with and would be a blessing to any project she’s part of.”
—SHAWNA H.
