About

Danielle, founder of The Rustic Elk, smiles gently in a striped black sweater with natural blue highlights in her hair, set against a soft autumnal forest backdrop, embodying a warm and earthy essence.

About Me: Danielle

Hey there, I’m Danielle, the voice and heart behind The Rustic Elk. My journey began with homesteading but has since evolved into something deeper—a way of life that’s rooted in simple joys, seasonal rhythms, and food that brings us closer to nature.

My Philosophy: Nourished by Nature

I believe life is at its best when it flows with nature’s cycles. Food, to me, is more than just sustenance; it’s a way to connect with the earth, to share stories, and to nourish body and soul. Here, I’m passionate about sharing the art of cooking from scratch, preserving each season’s bounty, and honoring wild flavors like venison.

Although my path has moved beyond full-scale homesteading, my connection to the natural world remains strong, whether it’s through tending my garden, preserving fresh ingredients, or savoring what’s wild. It’s about crafting a life that feels grounded, purposeful, and connected to the seasons.

My Journey: Finding Beauty in Nature’s Rhythm

More than a decade ago, when my husband brought home his first deer, I felt a deep desire to honor that gift by savoring every part of it. This sparked a love for wild flavors like venison and a journey into mindful, seasonal cooking that has become a cornerstone of my life. Along the way, I discovered that simplicity isn’t about living in a certain place or following a set path—it’s about finding ways to feel connected to nature, our food, and each other.

Now, my focus is on savoring what each season has to offer, whether I’m growing flowers, preserving fresh ingredients, or crafting recipes that bring warmth and purpose to the table. The Rustic Elk has become a place for sharing these experiences and for finding inspiration in every part of a well-rooted life.

Where to Begin?

Whether you’re ready to try your hand at canning, explore a new venison recipe, or simply slow down and enjoy the little things, you’re in the right place. Here are some of my favorite posts to help you start your journey:

Pickled green tomatoes in canning jars — Pickled Green Tomatoes

Marinated venison steak in a cast-iron skillet. — Marinated Venison Steak Recipe

Finished, smoked venison jerky on a plate. — How to Make Smoked Venison Jerky

11 Effective Ways to Get Rid of Cabbage Worms

Join the Nourished by Nature Community

I’d love for you to join me on this journey of embracing the seasons, making the most of fresh ingredients, and finding joy in life’s simple moments. Subscribe to the Nourished by Nature newsletter to receive weekly recipes, canning tips, and inspiration for a life lived in harmony with nature.

Let’s stay connected! Follow me on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, and YouTube for daily tips, recipe ideas, and little moments of everyday magic. Together, we’ll create a life that’s truly nourished by nature.

Wishing you simple joys and a life nourished by nature,

Danielle