Wednesday, February 9, 2011

Seven Questions for Sweet Dani B

Sweet Dani B's love gnome loves you... a lot.
Today we get a glimpse into the life of the woman behind the cookies, none other than Sweet Dani B herself, hot off her Valentine's Day appearance on "The Martha Stewart Show"! Dan may make the most fabulous looking and tasting cookies in the universe, but she is also a pretty awesome person. I had the privilege of making her acquaintance through a friend. I was a little intimidated to meet her, knowing that she had her own cookie company (!), styled for Martha Stewart (!!), and was best friends with my coolest new friend (!!!). I mean, really. But Dan immediately disarmed my nervousness with her smile, laugh, and all around excellent spirit.


After you read this post you should definitely start thinking about any upcoming parties that Dan can trick out for you — besides cookies she also creates awesome invitations and party environments (I think I just made that term up but I'm going with it). Not only will you love what she comes up with, you will be happy to find yourself working with such a cool cat. 


Here's wishing Dan all the success in the world! And not just 'cause she took the time to answer my questions. ; )


Q 1. What's something you wish more people knew? 
A 1. Agreeing to disagree can solve so many problems from big to small.

Q 2. Current favorite sources of inspiration? (Books, websites, movies, music, people, places, food)

A 2. I do a lot of online research these days but I so miss having time to pour over a stack of juicy mags... My ideal magazine stack would include a few of the fall issues (hopefully SJP in on one of the covers), the latest J. Crew and Free People catalogs, mixed in with Martha Living and Weddings all set next to a lovely glass of red wine and a few empty hours. If we are being honest, I'll throw in the current Us Weekly too. : )

Q 3. What did you want to be when you grew up? What do you do now?

Q 3. I had to ask my Mom about this because I have no recollection of wanting to "be" anything. I was doodling and making crafts (and messes) since I was very little... so when I started getting a little older my Mom said "Maybe you will be an artist some day" and I always said "I don't think so" or "I don't want to do that"... I was very big into art in middle school and high school and suddenly it was time to look at college. My parents were nervous about letting me loose in NYC (I was a bit of a rebel) so they drove us up to see RISD and while we were touring the studios I felt and strong need to be part of it... I applied and was lucky enough to get in but even through college I always wondered "what do I want to be?" I still wonder but try to live by "the journey is the destination" theory... I have worked in fashion as a graphic artist, a fashion illustrator, started an event design / cookie business, worked on restaurant graphics, styled for Martha Stewart (again walked into the Martha offices and had that 'this is where I belong' feeling), went freelance for Martha, then went back to my business and changed it up a bit. It's been a crazy journey. The constant is the desire to be creative and making myself and other people happy with what I do... "spreading the love" as they say.

Q 4. When you look back on your first love, how do you think your idea of love has changed or stayed the same?

A 4. I've always been obsessed with love as a "lifestyle" from then to now... My views on love have matured since high school but love is love... It's all meaningful.

Q 5. What is your biggest weakness? (Spiritual, disciplinary, dietary)

A 5. Red wine & pizza (separate, combined)

Q 6. Three things you want or are working toward in your future? 

A 6.   1. Peace with all my decisions  2. Big fenced in yard behind a great house near the beach- outdoor brick pizza oven, table for 12 to 14, and lots more rescue dogs running around the yard  3. Meeting THE Cookie Monster (no fakes)
The Real Cookie Monster? Or just an impostor?














Q 7. And finally, for my records, chocolate/chocolate, chocolate/vanilla,  vanilla/vanilla or other (please specify)?
(This is helpful in case I am ever bringing you dessert).
A 7. Chocolate/ vanilla, and I always like a topping or garnish... sprinkles, hot fudge, fresh whipped cream, or cookie crumbs on top!


A Spread from Dan's "Greatest Story Ever Told" Sketchbook.

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