We’re raising a glass (or tea mug) to Katie Burns as we celebrate her 5-year Pepperversary! Throughout the years, Katie has contributed to so many amazing projects and continues to bring her unique spark to everything she touches.

Keep scrolling to learn more about Katie in our special interview and infographic!

1. Best part of working at Eleven Peppers Studios?
The people… everyone says this because it’s the truth. The talent, support, collaboration, it’s just unmatched!

2. If you were a pepper, what type would you be and why?
I’m definitely a Calabrian Chili Pepper – complex heat but super versatile.

3. What is your favorite 11p event?
Hands down the annual family picnic. Give my kids a bouncy house and my husband some good BBQ and we’re a happy family!

4. What is your favorite present ever received from 11p?
I really appreciated the custom handmade cutting boards they gifted one year for Mother’s Day.

5. What is your favorite 11p memory?
Going to the Adobe Max Conference was a highlight for sure. Pretty cool that the company pays for training.

6. Name a Pepper you can always lean on for support or advice:
Julie Chea is someone I relate to on such a deep level, we can literally talk about ANYTHING, and I always come away feeling uplifted!

7. Name a Pepper whose work ethic inspires you:
Dave Meade’s work is always inspiring. I was lucky enough to work with him when I was first hired, and I just love his entire creative process. Also, Cheryl W., she is so humble and has such an incredible mind, she’s always surprising me by offering up unique and highly intentional design concepts. And then Kellie E., I don’t know how I could get through my day without her, she goes the extra mile to make sure we get the final product right.

8. My spice meter :

1. What’s a recent book you read and loved?
So many good ones lately but I just finished The Unmaking of June Farrow by Adrienne Young. Such a beautifully written magical realism novel, a family mystery set in the Blue Ridge mountains with a touch of romance. Highly recommend.

2. What item in your garden are you most proud of growing?
Anything I can grow successfully is a win for me but when I yield a good potato crop, I’m super proud!

3. What’s your favorite place to go on vacation?
It depends on the vibe we’re going for but Topsail Beach, North Carolina is a family favorite.

4. How many books are you typically reading at the same time?
I need variety so 3-4 which sounds a little crazy, but I always have one personal development, one physical copy, one Kindle, and one audio book.

5. As a mom of three, what is your favorite part of motherhood?
Getting to be a part of the growing love between them, the older girls are obsessed with their baby brother and he’s becoming just as captivated with them too.

6. What’s your favorite part of being a boy AND girl mom?
Seeing their different personalities shine through. It can be chaotic at times, but their energy and joy are contagious. Grace and Evie are pretty rough with Joseph so I can’t wait for the day when he dishes it back out.

7. What is your favorite sourdough loaf you’ve ever made?
Honestly, my favorite is just a plain loaf, you can’t beat the flavor when the sourdough starter is ripe! Other than that, I’d say our sourdough focaccia with marinated olives is killer!

8. What is your family’s favorite weeknight meal?
We’ve found that themed nights keep everyone happy. Fam fave is Taco Night. My favorite is Pasta Night because I can get the kids to try new things like Skillet Chicken Stroganoff.

9. What’s your favorite podcast to listen to?
Really niche but The Hustle Sanely podcast by Jess Massey.

10. Favorite things to do in Annapolis?
Being able to go for a walk and end up at the water is pretty incredible – the Chesapeake shoreline is massive! But also, restaurant hopping, there are so many good ones!