#Black Southern Belle has strong roots in Charleston and we are proud to celebrate one of the city’s best, Danetra Richardson. If you are need of a cake or dessert for your next event or wedding, she is your girl. Danetra specializes in making and baking desserts taste and look equally great. Get to know Danetra a little better and also admire her work. You will be sure to have a sweet tooth after reading this feature!
Business Name:
Swank Desserts
What You Provide: I specialize in sexy and flavorful seasonally inspired desserts including anything from stuffed pound cake to French macarons made with Pop Rocks!
Where are you based?
Charleston, SC
Why did you decide to start a business?
I decided to start my business because it was time to stop chasing my dreams and start living them! I knew when I graduated culinary school that I wanted to share my love for food with others, but at the time was unsure of my creative outlet. I think it is safe to say I have found how I will make my mark!
What is your favorite client story?
My favorite client story that always makes me chuckle would be when I had a client of mine receive her Chocolate Cherry Pop Macarons that were ordered for her as a Valentine’s Day gift. The macarons never really made it home. As she was driving home she was eating her cookies and sent me a message asking me how many were in the box because she couldn’t stop eating them. The first message was letting me know how good they were. The second text referred to the pop rocks, which are always a nice surprise for people. The following messages consisted of a countdown of how many she had eaten. I always tell people to freeze them and eat the rest gradually, but I become a cookie monster as well when it comes to macarons. They are ADDICTING! It makes my heart smile to know that a flavor I created, on accident , can evoke that much emotion. I love what I do and I appreciate it more than anything when a client can taste my passion in their dessert. I was able to create an experience for her, which is always my goal!
What is your website?
www.swankdesserts.com
Who are some of your business idols?
I would sound like a stalker if I named them all ha! Some of them I have never met [ some I have], I just follow on social media, and I admire them and their passion. My biggest idols are business-minded young professionals that have given up the cliché “ early 20’s” lifestyle to follow their dreams.
Do you have any mentors?
Yes! I know several people that already own businesses( whom I admire or their talents and passion as well) or have owned businesses that provide me with any advice I need. I could never do this alone. It’s amazing to be connected with several people that have “been there, done that” or are currently doing what I am.
What is your favorite thing about being southern?
My favorite thing about being southern is being able to make a connection with my food. Local is very important here and several organizations aim at informing and educating consumers on local products/services. When you connect with your food and understand how it is grown, where it comes from, etc. I feel as though it produces a better product because at that point you have respect for the ingredients being used. When someone loves what they’re making and have connected with those ingredients you can definitely taste the difference.
What is your favorite southern dish?
Sweet Potato Casserole with a side of red rice and macaroni lol! I don’t eat meat so often times my meals are a compilation of side dishes. I have to make it interesting somehow, right? Pretty much any dish with Carolina Gold Rice keeps me satisfied. It has a flavor that I cannot be found in store-bought white rice and more profound than Jasmine rice.
What is the most important thing you have done to build your business?
The most important thing I’ve done to build my business is to organize EVERYTHING. It makes my life so much easier and gives me more time to be in my kitchen, creating!
What are your favorite southern brands?
My favorite southern brands are Rewined Candles and French Broad Chocolates. I also love Irvin House Vineyards wine that is produced right down the street from my house. It’s made from Muscadine grapes so the wines don’t taste dry or bitter which is perfect for my sweet tooth!
What is your favorite item or piece of clothing to wear/use while doing business?
Now that I work for myself and can pretty much do whatever( kind of), I no longer have to wear baggy kitchen pants and huge non-slip shoes. I still were my kitchen shoes from time to time, but I am the most comfortable in a chef jacket, jeans, and my red and white polka dot Toms! You have to look to feel good. When I feel good I do my best work and produce the best product.
We can’t wait to have some of Danetra’s macaroons the next time Black Southern Belle is in Charleston and you should too. Check out her menu here We can’t wait to see what tasty treats and fun Danetra finds herself in and will be supporting her throughout this journey!
XOXO
Michiel
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Michiel is a Black Southern Belle living a lowcountry life. I love all things fashion, home decor and southern! When I am not running around doing fun stuff for Black Southern Belle, I live in antique stores and have a minor obsession with historic homes :)
