I moved to Tacoma for a few years in 2013 and felt an immediate pull to the city. For years, Tacoma had a gritty reputation - often overshadowed by Seattle and famously known for the "Aroma of Tacoma" produced by the now-defunct pulp mills.
Author Danielle Kartes - Photo by Michael Kartes
But I found beauty everywhere: unparalleled scenery, hidden hiking trails, and creek beds teeming with salmon every fall. The culture felt authentically stuck in the '90s in the best way possible. The social scene was tight-knit, and local "mini-celebrities" felt like neighbors. That is how I first crossed paths with Danielle Kartes - author, speaker, food stylist, and former owner of a popular wine bar near the Theater District.
It started with a feature in South Sound Magazine. Danielle had shared a spread on gourmet hot dogs that was so bright and creative I ended up making every single one for a gathering of friends. Instagram was still relatively new, but I decided to send her a DM to share how much we enjoyed the recipes, never actually expecting a reply.
Food Styling by Danielle Kartes - Photo by Michael Kartes
She reached out that same night. A few friendly messages later, I found myself laying out the pages for her very first cookbook, Rustic Joyful Food. Though I had designed books and manuals before, this was my first foray into the world of culinary publishing. I learned a lot through trial and error on that project, but more than the design, it was the content that moved me. When I received the draft for the introduction, her story was so raw and full of heart that I found myself moved to tears before I could even finish the first page.
Over the last 13 years, Danielle has remained a constant source of inspiration. I don’t know anyone who works harder or possesses such an inextinguishable spirit. Since that first book, she has authored four cookbooks, nine children’s books, and a devotional memoir. You’ve likely seen her culinary segments on The Kelly Clarkson Show, Rachael Ray, or The Today Show, or followed along with her YouTube series.
Beyond the cooking, Danielle’s true gift is her heart for people. She walked with me through the most difficult years of my life, offering counsel and support during my mother’s long battle with cancer. We have both seen the world change significantly over the last decade and have endured our share of loss, but Danielle’s resilience is unmatched.
Danielle Kartes on Next Level Chef
It’s that warrior spirit that has kept me glued to the TV for this season of Next Level Chef. While I’m a fan of every season, watching a friend navigate that kitchen has been special. My first question to her was naturally, “Did you get to hug Gordon Ramsay?” Her reply: “Yes! He gives the best hugs ever.” (I’m still a little jealous.)
Today, Danielle has expanded her brand into Florescence Vodka and French for Water wines, while continuing to host private dinners and workshops. I encourage you to explore her work here and follow her journey. She remains my favorite example of how a professional collaboration can blossom into a lifelong friendship.
