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Sparking Joy: A Conversation with Danni of Mindful Mixology
Sparking Joy is our community series celebrating the people who create little moments of happiness. This time, we're swapping cake tins for cocktail shakers and chatting with Danni, founder of Mindful Mixology.
Known for crafting thoughtful cocktails packed with flavour and personality, Danni believes a great drink should do more than taste good — it should spark joy. So grab a glass and settle in.
From One Cocktail to a Whole Business
Danni's love affair with cocktails started with a perfectly balanced Bramble."I realised cocktails could be so much more than sugary drinks on a night out. The creativity, the flavours, the way one drink can make someone stop and say 'ooh!' — I was hooked." That spark eventually led to Mindful Mixology, where flavour, quality ingredients, and a more thoughtful approach sit at the heart of every bottle.
Turning Cakes into Cocktails
If you've ordered one of our Cake Cards or whole cakes recently, you may have spotted some of Danni's creations, including the much-loved Victoria Sponge Martini and Pink Gin Fizz.So what's the best part of creating a new flavour? "It usually starts with a memory, an ingredient, or even a dessert. Then comes the experimenting, tweaking and tasting until it matches the feeling I had in my head." A process we can definitely relate to here at Sponge.
Christmas in a Cocktail Glass
For Danni, festive flavours are all about comfort and nostalgia. "Citrus, spice, mulled wine, fresh cranberries and the smell of baking. Vanilla, butter, warm sponge... those are the flavours that instantly feel like Christmas." Which is probably why her limited-edition festive cocktails feel like Christmas in a glass.
Finding Joy in the Little Things
Running a business can be busy, but Danni finds happiness in life's simpler moments. A morning walk with her dog. A really good coffee. Cooking something comforting. Discovering a new restaurant. "Joy shows up in the small moments, and I try to make space for them as much as I can."
A Hug in a Glass
When we asked what drink she'd create to make someone's day, her answer sounded surprisingly familiar. "A hug in a glass. Creamy, uplifting, nostalgic and a little bit magical. Something like the Victoria Sponge Martini." Honestly? That sounds a lot like cake.
A Little Festive Magic
As we wrapped up our chat, one thing became clear: joy, creativity, and connection are at the heart of everything Danni does and just in time for Christmas, she's bringing even more festive sparkle with limited-edition flavours including a decadent Chocolate Martini and a cosy Christmas Negroni. A little indulgence, a little celebration, and a reminder that life's sweetest moments are best shared — preferably with good company, a delicious cake, and something lovely in your glass.