Every branding session tells a story, but some stories are richer and warmer than others—like the smell of fresh-baked cookies from a cozy kitchen. My recent shoot with Cookies on a Mission was one of those heartwarming experiences that felt like a big hug… with a dash of 70s nostalgia and a whole lot of sugar.
Cookies on a Mission is more than just a custom cookie business. It’s a blend of artistry, faith, and purpose, created by my longtime friend who pours love and intention into every cookie she makes. From baby showers and weddings to birthdays and holidays, her cookies don’t just look incredible—they’re baked with heart and mission in mind.
A Mission Beyond Cookies
Based in the Santa Clarita Valley, Cookies on a Mission crafts luxury sugar cookies that excite all ages. But what sets this business apart isn’t just the detail in the icing—it’s the purpose behind the piping bag.
Driven by a deep desire to serve her local community and contribute to missions through her church, the woman behind Cookies on a Mission uses her artistic gifts to bring joy to her clients and support causes close to her heart. With every batch of cookies sold, she's building a business that gives back. That passion shines through in her work—and it was a joy to capture it on camera.
A Warm and Cozy Vibe—with a 70s Twist
When we dreamed up the look and feel for her brand photos, we knew we didn’t want it to feel overly polished or corporate. We wanted it to feel like her—warm, inviting, nostalgic, and creative. Think cozy textures, golden tones, natural light, and a subtle 70s flair that gave everything a soulful glow.
The shoot took place in her kitchen—the true heart of her home and her business. It was the perfect setting to photograph her in action: mixing dough, shaping each cookie by hand, and adding the intricate icing details that make her cookies mini masterpieces. The kitchen was full of warmth, not just in temperature but in the way it felt: homey, intentional, and full of joy.
We styled a few shots to feel like an editorial peek behind the scenes, while others were more lifestyle-inspired, capturing her personality, tools, and process. From vintage glassware to warm wood textures and fun pops of color, every detail felt aligned with her brand: personal, inviting, and rooted in love.
The Artistry of Custom Cookies
As a fellow artist, it was especially inspiring to document her process. Each cookie she creates is entirely handmade—from mixing and rolling the dough to cutting out the shapes and decorating them with delicate, hand-drawn designs.
It’s one thing to see the final product on Instagram. It’s another to watch the creative magic unfold in real time. Her attention to detail is remarkable, and it was so fun to capture her focused, joy-filled expression as she worked.
Whether it’s a set of pastel onesies for a baby shower or elegant florals for a wedding dessert table, her cookies tell stories too—stories of celebration, gratitude, and the sweet moments that make life meaningful.
From Friendship to Collaboration
While this was our first time working together professionally, we’ve known each other for years. This shoot felt like a natural extension of our friendship. We chatted about business and art, swapped stories, and encouraged each other along the way. There’s something really special about collaborating with someone who not only inspires you creatively but also knows your heart.
As a brand and product photographer, moments like this remind me why I love what I do. Helping women-owned businesses visually tell their story—especially ones rooted in purpose like this—is one of the greatest joys of my work.
Why Branding Photography Matters for Small Businesses
Whether you're selling cookies, candles, or coaching packages, professional branding photography is key to building trust and connection with your audience. People want to see the heart behind the brand. They want to know who's making the product, what the space looks like, and why it matters.
For Cookies on a Mission, the photos from this session will help her showcase not only the beauty of her products but also the heart and intention behind her business. From website imagery to Instagram content, these brand visuals will serve her in telling her story with consistency and authenticity.
If you're a small business owner in Santa Clarita (or beyond!) looking to elevate your brand presence with intentional, artistic photography, I'd love to connect. Whether you're a baker, a florist, or a fellow artist, your story deserves to be seen and celebrated.
Till next time,
Kaytie
Thank you!
