Life and Work with Danielle Sanders

Today we’d like to introduce you to Danielle Sanders.

Danielle, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
My best friend and I started a blog and Instagram account because we were overwhelmed by all the perfectly staged mom accounts, and hoping that we could connect with other moms and parents in a more relatable way.

I have a culinary background, having gone to culinary school, worked at a culinary school, and owned a small meal prep business. I wanted to share my knowledge in a simple and accessible way.

My friend ended up to busy to continue with the blog and Instagram account, so I re-branded a bit focusing more on recipes, local businesses, and my family.

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Being a new mom can be a lonely experience. The months following having my daughter I found myself feeling a little isolated and unsure of myself. It seemed like a lot of the local mom groups were already “established tribes” and many of the play places seemed cliquey.

Through Instagram, I have found a circle of other moms who have been kind and supportive. Having women who related to me and were available to chat really helped me feel like I am part of a community. It also enabled me to meet other local moms, including one who has become one of my closest friends!

Please tell us more about your work, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
I love to share recipes and cooking tips. There are tons of recipe, food, and mom bloggers, but I find that few of them have the culinary knowledge and background that I do. Nothing makes me happier than when someone tells me they love my recipe or that a tip I gave changed the way they cook!

I also love highlighting my favorite local restaurants and businesses. There are too many good hidden gems in Phoenix and it’s too selfish not to share, even if it means an extra person in front of me in line next time I go!

Who have you been inspired by?
I have always been inspired by strong women in the culinary industry. The kitchen has always been such a male-dominated workplace and I love finally seeing female Chefs being recognized for their achievements. Phoenix Chef Charleen Badman was just named a James Beard Award finalist.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.theokmoms.com
• Email: theokmomsblog@gmail.com
• Instagram: @danielle_fertig

        Image Credit:
Rachel Fischer

Getting in touch: VoyagePhoenix is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.