What began as a playful challenge has evolved into a celebrated culinary brand built on creativity, craftsmanship, and connection. The Jelly Queens, founded by Donna Collins, Founder and CEO of The Jelly Queens, is known for its award-winning preserves and thoughtfully curated tea experiences, but its origin story is as unexpected as its flavors.
“The Jelly Queens began in the most unexpected way after my appearance on Season 2 of MasterChef,” says Donna. What started as a champagne jelly created on the show quickly sparked curiosity among friends. During a watch party, someone asked if she could make jelly from beer. That simple question turned into a defining moment. “I went home, got to work, and returned the following week with 21 different beer jellies and jams,” she says. “The response was immediate and overwhelming.” That moment marked the beginning of a brand that has since earned 43 world awards.
Donna’s path to The Jelly Queens was anything but linear. With a background spanning art, feng shui, and culinary work, she has always approached her craft as a form of creative expression. “I’ve always thought of myself first and foremost as a maker,” explains Donna. “Every chapter of my career has simply been another form of art.” That perspective is evident in every jar, where flavor, color, and texture are carefully balanced to create not just a product, but an experience.
That same philosophy extends beyond the kitchen and into The Jelly Queens’ signature tea events, an essential part of the brand’s identity. These gatherings grew organically from Donna’s creative circle, particularly through her collaboration with close friend and fellow creative, Darlene Leiker. Together, they launched Tea & Art = TART, a series of themed tea parties that celebrate friendship, artistry, and culinary innovation.
“When artistic women come together, beautiful things tend to happen,” says Donna. “Darlene and I combine our talents to create experiences that are elegant, thoughtful, and always a little bit magical.” Each event features curated menus where The Jelly Queens’ preserves are woven into pastries, savory bites, and sweets, creating a cohesive and immersive experience.
Hosted in charming settings like the Bingham Estate, these tea gatherings attract a wide and diverse audience. Guests range in age from young children to centenarians, all drawn by a shared desire to slow down and savor meaningful moments. “In a world that feels rushed, people are looking for a place to pause,” explains Donna. “They come for the flavors, but they stay for the atmosphere. No drama, just kindness and good company.” Often, guests linger long after the final cup is poured, prompting Donna and Darlene to introduce post-tea classes focused on etiquette, cooking, and creative skills.
Despite the brand’s growth and recognition, Donna has remained committed to preserving its integrity. Every jar is still made by hand, using traditional methods and carefully selected ingredients. “We explored scaling, but it meant compromising the recipes,” she says. “That didn’t align with what we stand for.” For Donna, the awards have served as validation that authenticity and craftsmanship still resonate.
Looking ahead, The Jelly Queens continues to expand its storytelling through new avenues, including an upcoming cookbook and future literary projects. At the same time, Donna and Darlene are dreaming up new experiences, from themed camps like Granny Camp and Etiquette Camp to continued tea events that celebrate creativity and connection.
“For me, The Jelly Queens has never just been about preserves,” shares Donna. “It’s about creating beautiful experiences, sharing stories, and leaving behind something sweet for others to enjoy.”
donna@thejellyqueens.com
972.768.2608