french vanilla

the story behind french vanilla

michigan food photographer

I'm not French, but I do love Paris, French pastries, and French style! I have a passion for working with brands to create content that is delivered in an elegant and sophisticated manner, but remains simple and approachable for the everyday busy baker. I guess you can say it's my way of incorporating the allure of French culture into the American way of life! My work is a testament to the fact that even the most straightforward recipes can be captured in a beautiful way. After all, presentation is everything!

Bonjour! I'm Danielle (pronounced "Duh-neal") - home baker, food photographer, and dog lover.

I'm the creator behind French Vanilla Photography & Bakery.

Meet Danielle

In the Fall of 2021, I finally embarked on a longtime dream of starting a home bakery offering macarons. I gave my little business a clever name - "French Vanilla Bakery” - and began taking orders. I felt the name “French Vanilla” embodied my love of all things French without limiting me to macarons! Plus, it's a nod to my all-time favorite flavor: vanilla.
 
​​In an effort to market my macarons, I enrolled in a food photography course. Little did I know, this would unlock a new passion for food photography. After a couple months, I closed my home bakery, focused solely on honing my photography skills, and started working with my first clients.

french vanilla began as a macaron bakery.

While I work a full-time job in corporate IT, photography has provided an opportunity to express my creativity and build some amazing client relationships along the way.

 food photography & content creation.

Today, French Vanilla specializes in

Whether it's flying to a different country, dressing up for a fancy high tea, or simply going for a Sunday drive down some backroads with the pups, we value new experiences and quality time together.

My husband and I live in Michigan with our three dogs. We love to travel and are always up for a new adventure. 

the french vanilla family

On a personal note...

Traditional sugar cookies with crisp edges and a chewy center! 

Sparkling Sugar Cookies

Layers of buttery, flaky pie crust with fruit filling and a creamy icing!

Homemade Pop Tarts

Soft and chewy cookies with hints of espresso and vanilla topped with a vanilla coffee glaze and a delicate latte heart pattern.

Vanilla Latte Cookies

My Favorite Recipes

view all recipes

take a look

Using natural light, clean linens, simple props, and a touch of French flair, I love to capture baked goods in their most delicate (and delicious) form.  

photography portfolio

work with me

I have a passion for working with brands to create light, bright, and elegant content that remains simple and approachable.

services for brands

I'm very grateful and humbled to have had the opportunity to serve my clients from behind the lens of French Vanilla Photography & Bakery. Whether you're a brand seeking to work together or a home baking enthusiast looking for some delicious recipes and pretty photos, I'm so glad you're here!

what's next?

let's bake

Looking for a new favorite dessert recipe to satisfy your sweet tooth? I've got recipes for cookies, cakes, breakfast, and more on the blog.

easy, delicious recipes

for the busy at-home baker

@frenchvanillabaker

Delicious ideas delivered to your feed.