Voyage ATL Hidden Gems

Check Out Julie Mcdaniel’s Story

Learn more about Julie and how she got to where she is today!

Find out the answers to all these questions:

Hi Julie, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?

From Farm to Fondant: How I Turned a Lifetime of Learning into Artful Cakery by Julie

Growing up on a farm in South Georgia, I was surrounded by the culinary mastery of my family. My grandmas and great-aunts didn’t just cook—they created memories with recipes handed down through generations. By my preteen years, I was making scratch dinners, complete with homemade biscuits. These early experiences sparked a love for crafting food that nourishes and delights.

When I became a mom, my love for baking evolved. My sons' birthdays became the perfect opportunity to experiment with cakes—pirate ships, treasure chests, and eventually intricate designs with fondant and modeling chocolate. I devoured books, online tutorials, and dove into a self-taught journey that was as rewarding as it was challenging.

After moving back to Atlanta in 2011, I officially launched Artful Cakery by Julie in 2013. Every cake I create is a labor of love—whether it’s a sculpted masterpiece or a wedding cake that tells a couple’s unique story. My favorite projects often involve 3D designs that require sculpting, painting, and a bit of imagination to bring to life.

Despite setbacks like relocating and recovering from a shoulder injury, my passion has never wavered. Baking is my artistic outlet, and there’s nothing more fulfilling than seeing the joy on a client’s face when I deliver their custom creation. At Artful Cakery, every cake is more than dessert—it’s a centerpiece, a conversation starter, and a memory in the making.

Looking for a show-stopping cake for your next event? Visit Artful Cakery by Julie to see how we can make your sweetest dreams a reality.