John Daniel Wiggins II, known as JDVNL, is a multidisciplinary creative whose journey is deeply rooted in the entrepreneurial spirit and artistic foundation of his family. Born and raised in Queensbridge, John grew up in a vibrant and creative environment with both parents as disciplined artists and entrepreneurs. Their dual passions for artistry and business inspired John to develop his own unique blend of creativity, resilience, and vision. These early experiences ignited his passion for creativity, community, and entrepreneurship, shaping the foundation for everything he creates under the name JDVNL. Guided by unwavering faith in Jesus Christ, John transformed adversity into fuel for growth, building a platform that inspires others to chase their dreams, no matter their circumstances.

Growing up in his parents’ Long Island City restaurant, Southern Comfort, he witnessed firsthand the intricacies of running a business and the essence of community-driven ventures.

After graduating from the Art Institute with a degree in Fashion Design and earning the top portfolio in his class, John launched his career working for notable fashion brands before founding his couture label, J. Daniel. The made-to-order line began to generate buzz, with John being named one of America’s emerging designers to watch by Britain’s Solace Magazine. His work was also featured in Source Magazine and other publications, and he made appearances on VH1 as an up-and-coming designer. These early successes hinted at his potential and laid the foundation for his growing reputation in the fashion world.

However, when demand for J. Daniel outpaced resources, John pivoted to create BOOJUU, a luxury streetwear brand. Using BOOJUU’s success, he reinvested in scaling his couture line.

John’s life took a transformative turn in 2016, sparked by an unexpected moment involving his signature banana pudding. A chance potluck with friends turned into a viral sensation when a reaction video to his dessert garnered widespread attention. The flood of online orders from across New York and beyond birthed Maggie & Ease, a culinary venture named in honor of his parents. Initially operated from his family’s kitchen in Queens, Maggie & Ease rapidly grew, delivering across NYC and catering to high-profile clients such as Apple Inc., Lululemon, Barclays Center, and the Dia Art Foundation. The business expanded further with popular pop-up shops and a menu of unique offerings, including Cold Cream Crumbles.

As a seasoned marketing manager and creative visionary, JDVNL has also excelled in bridging corporate initiatives with cultural movements. Through innovative partnerships and experiential curation, he has enriched NYC’s cultural landscape while promoting health and wellness. His work spans diverse realms, from fashion and culinary arts to music and social impact, fostering synergy between global corporations and the vibrant communities they serve.

"I've reached a pivotal chapter in my journey as a creative," JDVNL reflects. "This stage is called rediscovery—shaped by post-pandemic life, marriage, and fatherhood, altering my perspective profoundly. Amidst rapid transitions, I grappled with creative disorientation, questioning my purpose and role. Wrestling with imposter syndrome, I've navigated uncertainty to unearth my driving force: to illuminate God's light, preserve ancestral narratives, and amplify community voices through my art. Creativity, a boundless realm of self-expression, grants me liberation and purpose, enriching my existence. I embrace my calling to infuse positivity and change through my gifts, destined to be a catalyst helping to create a more equitable world for my children."