Ree Drummond, better known as The Pioneer Woman, has captivated audiences for years with her down-to-earth charm, delicious recipes, and picturesque Oklahoma ranch life. From her humble beginnings as a city girl turned ranch wife to her current status as a media mogul, Ree’s journey is one of remarkable transformation and enduring appeal. But what exactly is The Pioneer Woman up to these days? Let’s delve into her current projects, personal life, and future plans, offering a comprehensive look at the life of Ree Drummond.
Continuing the Culinary Legacy: Cooking, Recipes, and Food Network
At the heart of The Pioneer Woman’s brand is, of course, food. Ree’s culinary journey began with her popular blog, which documented her experiences as a ranch wife and her accessible, family-friendly recipes. That blog led to a cookbook deal, and ultimately, her hugely successful Food Network show.
The Pioneer Woman on Food Network
“The Pioneer Woman” show remains a staple on the Food Network schedule. Ree continues to film new episodes from her Pawhuska, Oklahoma ranch, sharing her cooking tips, signature recipes, and glimpses into her family life. What makes the show so engaging is its authenticity. Ree is genuinely herself, and viewers appreciate her practical approach to cooking and her relatable personality. She shares recipes ranging from simple weeknight dinners to elaborate holiday feasts, always with a focus on using accessible ingredients and straightforward techniques. Her recent episodes often feature her children helping in the kitchen, adding to the show’s charm and family-oriented appeal.
New Cookbooks and Culinary Ventures
Beyond the television show, Ree continues to expand her culinary empire with new cookbooks. Her cookbooks are known for their beautiful photography, clear instructions, and, most importantly, delicious and approachable recipes. Each cookbook reflects Ree’s evolving culinary style, incorporating new flavors and techniques while staying true to her signature comfort food philosophy. She often incorporates reader feedback and requests into her recipes, ensuring that her cookbooks remain relevant and appealing to her audience.
Ree also continues to share recipes and cooking tips on her blog, which remains a vibrant online community. She frequently interacts with her readers, answering questions and providing inspiration for home cooks of all levels. Her online presence, combined with her cookbooks and television show, solidifies her position as a leading voice in the culinary world.
Building an Empire in Pawhuska: The Mercantile and Other Businesses
Ree Drummond’s impact extends far beyond the kitchen. She and her husband, Ladd, have invested heavily in the revitalization of their hometown of Pawhuska, Oklahoma, creating a thriving tourist destination centered around The Pioneer Woman brand.
The Mercantile: A Destination for Food and Shopping
The Mercantile, often called “The Merc,” is Ree Drummond’s flagship retail and restaurant venture. Located in a beautifully restored historic building in downtown Pawhuska, The Mercantile offers a wide range of products, including cookware, home decor, clothing, and gifts. The restaurant serves Ree’s signature comfort food dishes, drawing inspiration from her blog and cookbooks. The Merc has become a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors from all over the country who come to experience a taste of The Pioneer Woman’s world. The building also houses a bakery and deli, offering a variety of sweet treats and grab-and-go options.
Charlie’s Sweet Shop and P-Town Pizza
Building on the success of The Mercantile, Ree and Ladd have opened additional businesses in Pawhuska, further expanding their presence and contributing to the town’s economic growth. Charlie’s Sweet Shop, named after the Drummond family’s beloved basset hound, offers a variety of candies, ice cream, and other sweet treats. P-Town Pizza, another popular eatery, serves up delicious pizzas with creative toppings. These businesses, along with The Mercantile, have transformed Pawhuska into a thriving tourist destination, creating jobs and boosting the local economy.
The Boarding House and Other Hospitality Ventures
Ree and Ladd have also ventured into the hospitality industry with The Boarding House, a boutique hotel located above The Mercantile. The hotel features beautifully decorated rooms, each with its own unique theme and character. The Boarding House provides a luxurious and immersive experience for visitors to Pawhuska, further enhancing the town’s appeal as a tourist destination. They continue to explore new opportunities in the hospitality sector, with plans for future expansions and developments in Pawhuska. This dedication to their hometown is a testament to their commitment to community and their desire to share the beauty of Oklahoma with the world.
Family Life and Personal Pursuits
While Ree Drummond is a successful businesswoman and media personality, she is also a dedicated wife and mother. Her family is at the center of her life, and she often shares glimpses into her personal life on her blog and social media channels.
Raising a Family on the Ranch
Ree and Ladd Drummond have four biological children: Alex, Paige, Bryce, and Todd. They also have a foster son, Jamar. Raising a family on a working ranch presents unique challenges and rewards. Ree often shares stories about her children’s involvement in ranch activities, from helping with cattle to participating in local rodeos. She balances her busy career with her responsibilities as a mother, often juggling filming schedules, book signings, and family events. Her children have become familiar faces to her audience, appearing on her Food Network show and in her social media posts.
Supporting Her Children’s Dreams
As her children have grown, Ree has been a constant source of support for their individual dreams and aspirations. Alex is married and has started her own family, while Paige is pursuing her career goals. Bryce and Todd are actively involved in sports and other activities. Jamar, who joined the Drummond family as a foster son, has become an integral part of their lives. Ree’s dedication to her children’s happiness and success is evident in her unwavering support and encouragement.
Maintaining a Strong Marriage with Ladd
Ree and Ladd Drummond’s marriage is a central theme in The Pioneer Woman’s story. They met in a bar and their unlikely romance blossomed despite their different backgrounds. Ladd, a rancher, and Ree, a city girl, found common ground in their shared values and love for family. Their marriage has been tested by challenges, including Ladd’s serious ranching accident, but they have remained committed to each other. Ree often shares anecdotes about their relationship on her blog and social media, offering insights into their enduring love and partnership.
Beyond Cooking and Business: Other Projects and Interests
Ree Drummond’s interests extend beyond cooking and business. She is a writer, a photographer, and a passionate advocate for her community.
Writing and Storytelling
Ree Drummond’s success began with her writing. Her blog, The Pioneer Woman, is a testament to her storytelling abilities. She has also written several children’s books, further showcasing her versatility as an author. Her writing style is engaging, humorous, and heartfelt, resonating with readers of all ages.
Photography and Visual Storytelling
Ree Drummond is a talented photographer. Her blog and cookbooks are filled with her stunning images of ranch life, food, and her family. Her photography captures the beauty of Oklahoma and the essence of her brand. She often shares photography tips and techniques with her followers, encouraging them to explore their own creative potential.
Community Involvement and Philanthropy
Ree and Ladd Drummond are actively involved in their community. They have supported local schools, charities, and community initiatives. They are committed to giving back to Pawhuska and making a positive impact on the lives of others. Their philanthropic efforts reflect their values of generosity, compassion, and community service.
What’s Next for The Pioneer Woman? Future Plans and Aspirations
So, what does the future hold for The Pioneer Woman? Ree Drummond shows no signs of slowing down. She continues to explore new opportunities, expand her brand, and pursue her passions.
Expanding the Pioneer Woman Brand
Ree Drummond is constantly exploring new ways to expand The Pioneer Woman brand. She has launched product lines in collaboration with major retailers, offering a wide range of home goods, apparel, and accessories. She is likely to continue to develop new products and partnerships, further extending her brand’s reach.
Continued Focus on Pawhuska
Ree and Ladd Drummond remain deeply committed to Pawhuska. They are likely to continue to invest in the town’s revitalization, creating new businesses and attracting more visitors. Their dedication to Pawhuska is a testament to their love for their community and their desire to create a thriving destination for generations to come.
Embracing New Opportunities and Challenges
Ree Drummond is known for her adaptability and willingness to embrace new challenges. She is likely to continue to explore new opportunities in the media, culinary, and business worlds. Her entrepreneurial spirit and her genuine connection with her audience will undoubtedly lead her to continued success.
In conclusion, The Pioneer Woman is doing quite a lot! Ree Drummond is a multifaceted woman who has built a successful career while remaining true to her values and her roots. From her Food Network show and cookbooks to her businesses in Pawhuska and her dedication to her family, Ree is an inspiration to many. She continues to evolve and adapt, embracing new opportunities and challenges while staying true to the authentic and relatable persona that has made her a beloved figure in the culinary world and beyond.
What kind of business ventures is Ree Drummond currently involved in?
Ree Drummond is deeply involved in several business ventures beyond her initial food blog and cookbook success. She continues to expand The Pioneer Woman empire, which includes her mercantile store, bakery, and restaurant in Pawhuska, Oklahoma. Furthermore, she has a popular line of cookware, kitchen gadgets, and home decor items sold at Walmart, which consistently introduces new designs and products.
In addition to her established businesses, Drummond remains active in the entertainment industry, regularly appearing on her Food Network show and producing new content. She has also ventured into publishing beyond cookbooks, releasing children’s books and novels. Her engagement with her online community remains strong, maintaining a vibrant presence on social media platforms and her website.
Is Ree Drummond still filming her cooking show, “The Pioneer Woman”?
Yes, Ree Drummond continues to film her cooking show, “The Pioneer Woman,” on the Food Network. The show remains a popular fixture in the network’s programming lineup, consistently drawing viewers interested in Drummond’s straightforward and accessible recipes, often featuring ranch-style cuisine. Episodes frequently showcase her family, the Oklahoma landscape, and the daily life of running her businesses.
While the show’s format and content remain largely consistent with its earlier seasons, Drummond often incorporates new recipes and themes to keep the programming fresh and engaging. She also shares personal stories and anecdotes, allowing viewers to connect with her on a personal level and further building her brand’s authenticity and relatability.
What are Ree Drummond’s children doing now?
Ree Drummond’s children are pursuing various paths and endeavors. Her oldest daughter, Alex, is married and has started her own career, while Paige has graduated college and is working. Bryce is actively involved in football and college life, and Todd is still in high school, participating in sports and other extracurricular activities.
Her foster son, Jamar, continues to be a significant part of the Drummond family. They all frequently appear on her social media and sometimes on her Food Network show, showcasing the close-knit bond of the family. Each of the children are growing and evolving, while still maintaining a strong connection to their family and upbringing on the ranch.
What is the status of The Pioneer Woman Mercantile in Pawhuska?
The Pioneer Woman Mercantile in Pawhuska remains a thriving tourist destination and a cornerstone of the Drummond family’s business operations. The store continues to attract visitors from around the world, drawn to its unique blend of retail, dining, and entertainment experiences. It offers a wide range of merchandise, including Pioneer Woman-branded products, cookbooks, clothing, and home goods.
The Mercantile also serves as a vital economic driver for Pawhuska, providing jobs and attracting tourism to the small Oklahoma town. Drummond and her family remain actively involved in the day-to-day operations of the business, ensuring that it continues to reflect their brand’s values of hospitality, family, and community.
Has Ree Drummond written any new books recently?
Ree Drummond has continued to add to her portfolio of published works with recent releases. Beyond her popular cookbooks, she has also expanded into other genres, including children’s books and novels. These books often reflect themes of family, community, and rural life, mirroring the same values she embodies in her other ventures.
Her recent publications have been well-received by her fans, further solidifying her position as a multifaceted author and personality. She frequently promotes her new books through her social media channels and website, engaging with her audience and sharing insights into her writing process.
What philanthropic activities is Ree Drummond involved in?
Ree Drummond is actively involved in various philanthropic activities, particularly those focused on supporting her local community and addressing food insecurity. She often donates to local organizations and charities in Pawhuska and the surrounding areas, contributing to initiatives that improve the lives of residents. Her efforts are often focused on supporting children and families in need.
Beyond local initiatives, Drummond also supports national organizations that address hunger and food insecurity. She uses her platform to raise awareness about these issues and encourages her followers to get involved in their own communities. Her commitment to giving back reflects her deep connection to her community and her desire to make a positive impact.
Does Ree Drummond have any new projects or ventures in the works?
While Ree Drummond maintains a busy schedule with her existing businesses and media commitments, she often hints at new projects and ventures in development. Although specific details are typically kept under wraps until closer to launch, she has expressed interest in expanding her brand’s reach and exploring new creative avenues. This could include new product lines, television projects, or collaborations.
Given her entrepreneurial spirit and her success in building The Pioneer Woman empire, it’s likely that Drummond will continue to innovate and expand her brand in the years to come. She is always exploring new opportunities to connect with her audience and share her passions, making it exciting to anticipate her future endeavors.