Hi, I’m Danielle — but you might hear me called Nellie, Dang, Dee, or Diggity, depending on who you ask.

I’m originally from Chicago and currently living in Ottawa, Illinois, with past lives that include San Diego sunsets, Nashville nights, and Los Angeles chaos. I’ve always been a little unique, a little hyper, and very silly. What people don’t always expect? I’m also super sensitive. I cry a lot. I feel things deeply — and honestly, that’s kind of the point.

I’ve spent most of my life taking care of people. I started working young at my parents’ bar and have been in the service industry for over 25 years. Along the way I’ve been a server, nanny, hairstylist, and social media manager — always creating, always giving, always thinking, “One day, I’ll make something that’s mine.”

Outside of work, I’m happiest doing simple things that make life feel good. I love hiking, kayaking, fishing, thrifting, and going to the movies. I collect Elvis, Betty Boop, Dolly Parton, and anything 70s nostalgia. I’ll happily wander IKEA like it’s a museum, eat at Hooters completely unironically, and put on a Disney movie just to fall asleep.

My music taste is absolutely chaotic — Hanson, Shania Twain, Haim, Korn, Alanis Morissette, Rod Stewart, Luke Combs, Red Clay Strays — with Cher energy always. Movies that shaped me? Hair, Jackass, and Babygirl. And the one that makes me cry every single time is I Wanna Dance With Somebody. (Whitney Houston Documentary)

And then there’s Dude — my dog, my best friend, and the unofficial mascot of this whole operation. If you see him around, just know he’s in charge.

All of that is what led me here.

I’ve always felt pulled to create something for myself — something personal, colorful, and real. Nellie’s Nook was born out of that need, and from my belief that apothecary is healing in itself. Nature is medicine. Scent is grounding. Clean feels powerful.

I have long hair and I’m absolutely the kind of person who pulls a strand forward just to smell it. I love feeling fresh, cozy, and put together — even between washes. That love for scent, ritual, and comfort is what shaped everything I make.

Nellie’s Nook exists because I wanted a natural apothecary brand that wasn’t boring or beige. I love nature, but I also love color, humor, nostalgia, and fun. Nature isn’t dull — and neither am I.

If Nellie’s Nook were a person at a party, it would be under a disco ball drinking martini-in a 70s conversation pit and its also girly slumber party with BOP magazines, Hanson posters, Doritos, and Capri Suns. Soft but bold. Playful but sincere.

The name itself came from a real nook — a small space my boyfriend’s mom carved out for me in her boutique where my products lived for the very first time. That little nook turned into something bigger, brighter, and deeply personal.

The products come last, but they matter. They’re more than things that smell good. They’re little reminders — to slow down, to feel unstoppable, to feel relaxed and content in your own body. They’re treats for yourself and love notes for the people you care about. Tiny conversation hearts made of scent and intention.

Everything here is handmade with care, thoughtfully chosen ingredients, and packaging meant to feel as unique as the person holding it.

My hope is that when you read this, you think, “Yeah… that makes sense.” Or “She’s cool.” Or even just, “Cool story, bro.”

If you see a little of yourself here — or something you admire — welcome. You’re exactly who this was made for.

• I grew up with a barn full of animals — horses, swans, peacocks… and yes, a pet monkey

• I love horses and honestly all animals (animal print forever)

• The sun is my serotonin — I’m always chasing it and proudly clocking my UV rays

• I’m very proud to be Italian

• I spent my childhood in the hanging out in the backroom and in between clothing racks my mom’s vintage shop and running around my aunt’s salon

• I decorate for every holiday — everything should be themed, cute, and celebrated

• Rainbow holographic is my favorite color

• Country music has my whole heart

• My celebrity crush is Post Malone (this explains a lot)

• I’m obsessed with shoes

• Freaks and Geeks is my comfort show

• I love a late-night Broadway hot dog

• I will always say yes to a selfie or outfit pic

• Costa is my favorite place in the world 🌞

• I unironically love Hooters

• I love being an aunt