Cupcake Provocateur

Features from my Blogspot http://cupcakeprovocateur.blogspot.com

Wednesday, October 15, 2008

Candlelight Romance - Candles for any Occasion!

I happen to be a candle fiend! So I feel I must tell everyone about Dawn's (creator of www,lawebs.com) Candle business. She has candles in almost every scent that you can imagine from aromatherapy, baked goods and even candles for men as well as yummy soaps in some very unique scents like "Sweet Orange & Chili Pepper Bella Bar"! Candles make great gifts......and The holidays are right around the corner!!!!
Best part are all the candles are organic!!


A lovely pic of Dawn wearing one of her Cupcake Provocateur`aprons!




*Tell us more about you and your Candle business?
ok, well my candles are only the best totally organic candles on this earth...lol!
They are made from 100% organic materials
plants, vegetables, soy, bees wax and other natural products. If and when u buy a candle of mine you will see right away that they look completely different from any other candle you've ever seen...the texture is different. It's crystal looking. Really neat I might add.
They are 100% zinc free, lead free, and almost completely soot free. They are made with 100% cotton wicks!
They are cooler burning candles due to the fact that they are organic, so if you accidentally spill some on you or a child comes in contact with the wax...it cools off on contact with the skin. They will NOT be scalded like they would be with an ordinary candle. They clean up with hot soapy water if spills on your carpet or counter or another surface.
These candles are also better for people who have allergies.
Now I know I mentioned earlier that my candles were soot free. This means no soot on your candle rims, walls, ceiling, counters, furniture!! Promise!!
They come in over 100 awesome triple scented SCENTS. They are true to their scent all the way down to the last drop. They are even burning down to the last drop also.
One thing I must tell you about my candles is....THEY DO NOT HAVE ESSENTIAL OILS IN THEM!! Why u ask??? Essential oils is what makes the soot...so therefore, we did not put essential oils in our candles. Essential oils are fabulous for allot of things...but not for candles!!!!Our candles smell just as good though!!!
I also very much enjoy making gift baskets of all kinds !! All you have to do is tell me what ya want and I can make it!!
Give me a price range and I can make it for u and ship it!


Angel Wings 16oz Jar
A unique aroma of cherry vanilla and one of their most popular fragrances


*How did you get started?
I happened upon an add one day when I was sending an
greeting to one of my buds for a birthday and I love candles and bath and body products so I was hooked ever since because it cost soo little to get started...less than $60.00!!!


*What types of candles do you sell?
Organic


*What are some of your most popular candles?
Butter Cream Frosting
Coconut Mango
Patchouli Spice
Slate and Stone
Sandalwood
Fresh Laundry
Fresh Linen
Coconut Lime
Snow Place Like Home
Bayberry
Sweet orange and Chili Pepper
Chili Vanilla
Orange and Cloves
Mulberry Spice
Strawberry Kiwi
Pumpkin Cheesecake
Sea Breeze
Norwegian Wood
Rain
White Chocolate and Coffee



Apple Berry Cobbler Votives
In a delightful twist on a homey favorite, this cobbler with a filling of tart apples, strawberries and dried cranberries is topped with hints of spice!


*What are some useful things candles can be used for.....I'm sure this will be an interesting answer :)
Weddings, baby showers, decorations, centerpieces, aromatherapy,gifts, novelty candles, mediation, Holidays, and best of all ROMANCE!!!


*What are the themes that are offered for a candle party?
OMG, I can do all sorts of themes, but some of the more basic ones are...
Fountain Fondue Party,
Asian Party,
Wine and Cheese Party,
Casino Party, Costume Party..such as Halloween or Carnival parties


*What is involved in a candle party hosted by you?
Most all you have to do is figure out your theme...get the decorations and just a few finger foods that are in context with the theme! Most of all don't go all out of the way to do this!! I want the hostess to be comfortable and not feel as if she has to spend a ton of money to host a party. It's all about the fun!! Not the Moolah!



Mia Bella's Bakery - Cherry Pie
This three wick pie candle will remind you of the times you helped grandma in the kitchen. Highly scented cherry.


*Where can your candles be purchased?
Http://www. SumptuousScents. biz
Http:// www. Homeparty-and-Candlenation. com


*Can anyone start their own candle business?
Most definitely, if you go to the join button on my sites you can join right then and there and I can coach you throughout the process!! It is wonderful and tons of fun and very rewarding!!


*I read something very interesting on www. homeparty-and-candlenation. com that Candle use has increased since 9/11, what do you think it has increased?
I think it is due to the fact that a lot of people like myself keep a candle always burning for their loved one who has died or who may be serving in the armed forces at this very moment. I have 3 brothers who are in the service and 2 of them went to Iraq twice and I keep a candle burning for them the whole time they are there to signify that I REMEMBER them and the love they have for us and our country!!!



*Tell us about Candle Fundraising?
candle fundraising is one of my favorites...I actually have quite a few of those.
If you want to make allot of money for yourself though u must do it for a nonprofit organization!
I on the other hand enjoy just doing them for people who need an extra hand with bills and whatnot. There is a fellow New Iberia who lives not far from me who has cancer ..he is 35 and I had a fundraiser for him not long ago and raised about $2000 for him and his family. Now that is me just going out to some lil stores and selling candles in front of them! If there is a will there is a way!!


*So Dawn....one of my �Burning� questions ....(pause for laughter)....is how do you juggle being a wife, mom, nurse run an amazing website (www.lawebsofhope.com),have your own Candle business and find the time to keep your sanity?
YIKES!!!! Did I say I was sane??? I don't recall ever saying that!!!HAHAHA
It is very hard at times and sometimes it is a breeze!!
I have also acquired my brother's two girls since their mother's death in July this year. This is another story and another website....
http://www. angelicsmiles. webs. com


Sweet Orange & Chili Pepper Bella Bar
The most incredible sweet orange & chili pepper cleansing bar you'll ever experience! This large 5oz body bar can be used to shave and shampoo as well as cleanse the body! Won't soften & dissolve like other soaps and will last 1 person 4-6 weeks!


*A question for all my cupcake lovers......what is your favorite type of cupcake ;)?
well I would usually choose yellow cake that is very moist and chocolate icing!!! yummm!!!


*Thank for taking the time to answer some of my questions, is there anything else you would like to add?
Thank you all for taking the time to listen and don't forget I have more than just candles on my site, bath and body products too!!!
Love to all!
Dawn



Thank you again for being a lovely person to interview and telling us about your yummy candles!........ I think the "Sweet Orange & Chili Pepper Bella Bar" has inspired me to come up with a new cupcake flavor, lol!

Wednesday, October 15, 2008

Louisiana Webs of Hope - Raising Awareness of Childhood Cancer

This is a serious blog, please read the whole post of this very important matter.




I have gotten to know a very wonderful lady by the name of Dawn. She is the creator of www.lawebsofhope.com. It is her passion to spread the word and give support to parents in Louisiana that have children suffering from Cancer. Sometimes just knowing that they have a shoulder to cry on and a support system can help ease a family's pain, if for just a moment. Please help support Dawn in her crusade against this awful disease. She hopes to one day start an organization in the name of a very special young boy by the name of Meechie Robinson that she came to know, who tragically lost his battle to Cancer. Though he is gone his memory lives on and those that love him continue the fight for a cure. please read more this courageous young man in her bio.

Childhood Cancer has been on the rise the past decade and there are some disturbing probabilities including environmental factors, such as pollutants tap water and radiation in the home emitted by electrical appliances.

I came across an interesting article in Medical News Today, discussing the rise of Cancer in children.
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/6364.php



Dawn's Bio:
I was born second in a family of eight children and well u can imagine how often we went to the Dr. Well, one day when I was a little girl say round 6 or so I can remember going to the Dr. to get my vaccines. There was a Nurse there to give the to me named Mrs. Bonnie. She told me to look at the beautiful bluebird on the ceiling and pop there she went with the needle into my arm...and guess what??? It didn't hurt. I was amazed ever since and she was my Idol..I wanted to be just like her. So therefore, that is why I became a Nurse. I love taking care of people It is my passion. You can ask anyone I know and they will tell ya...Dawn is the care giver. It's in my bones. I have been a Nurse since 1993. Wow, it seems like yesterday!
I suppose it was about 4 years ago I was surfing the net and myspace and I came across a page I fell in love with called Kids Cancer Crusade. I got to know the girl who ran it and begged her to help in some sort of way...so she let me update some of the kids pages on there...this is how I came to know the real meaning of what it is like to have a child that has cancer. Let me tell u guys....these are some of the strongest lil people you will ever meet in your lifetime. I kept up with this for about 2 years. I decided in those 2 years that that wasn't quite enough I wanted to do more so I had a benefit each year for them and collected toys and stamps and games and pajamas and hats and books....anything you could think of to keep these lil people happy when they were in the hospital for a long stay or when it was there birthday or some other special occasion. I even got to visit one of the children and low and behold you know I fell in love with them. I visited him a couple times and Unfortunately the last time I visited him was at his poor lil funeral. He was just about to make 8 and we had a huge birthday celebration planned for him but he decided it was better to share that experience with God up in Heaven looking down upon us all. Oh how it was a sad lil funeral..He wanted to be a policeman when he grew up so their were honorary policeman standing there at his lil coffin and changing guard every half hour on the hour. It was beautiful. So to make a long story short , Meechie's mom, that was his name, and I decided we were going to make an honorary site for him and hopefully one day make an organization for childhood cancer just like the Susan B. Coleman foundation for Breast Cancer.



Meechie Robinson

*You recently started Louisiana webs of Hope, ...please tell us more about your site and how people can get involved?
Well the site is mainly a site for children from Louisiana who have developed some sort of cancer and are or have gone through the treatments and trials and tribulations of therapy. This site is also a site for awareness and knowledge to keep people aware of the fact that Childhood Cancer is still the LEAST FUNDED Cancer of all the cancers in the world. These are our children...this could be your child...they are our future and we need to keep them alive and healthy to prosper and enjoy their lives!
I suppose the best way to get involved would be to go to my candle site and buy a sixteen ounce candle due to the fact that these are the ones that part of the proceeds goes to the children on the cancer website.
Now with that said, I also take donations at my home such as, new toys, books, dvds, pajamas, silly socks(talk of the hospital the sillier ther are....lol), hats( or their cold little heads), and stamps to mails these packages to them.
You can also go to the Lawebsofhope site and click on each child's page and their is a link to their care page there...if you go to their carepage you can leave them encouraging messages...but remember...some of these children have passed on to the next life so you may be speaking to their families....they too still NEED support!!!



*Can people from other states get involved as well?
Most definitely...anyone can get involved from anywhere...we are not limited to who gets involved...as a matter of fact I may talk to the other host and see if we can branch out a bit! ;-)

*What was the defining moment when you decided that you wanted to dedicate yourself to helping children with cancer and to raise awareness?
I have always wanted to work in Oncology (Cancer Medicine)!!
I suppose it was when I met all those sweet innocent little children from Kids Cancer Crusade and got to know then and their families so well, that it hit me...this could be me ...this could be my child!! I hate to see anyone suffer...much less an innocent little child. They are soo strong!! I suppose they themselves are quite the Idols for me!!



*How has being a nurse influenced you and your organization?
It has helped me in the sense that I know where to go and what to look for when people have questions about certain things. I knew exactly what I wanted to put on the site information wise because as a Nurse...these are the questions parents come to us with!



*What resources are available to parents that have a child with cancer?
OMG!! there are so many resources from hospitals to books to brochures to websites and an endless amount of support groups!
You can go almost anywhere on the web and find what you need information wise!!
My favorite and most knowledgeable sources that ACTUALLY DO give their funding to Childhood Cancer Reseach are St. Jude Children Hospital and Curesearch...these are featured on my site!!


*Do you know if there any new treatments that are available that parents should be aware of?
There are always new treatments out there ,but beware that new treatments also come with unknown reactions. I have a page on my site that goes over this thourouhly. It is so exciting and encouraging to a parent when they hear of new discoveries, but you must be aware of what you are doing to your children at the same time!!


*What types of cancer do children generally develop as opposed to adults?
The types of cancers that occur in children vary greatly from those seen in adults. They tend to occur in different parts of the body, they look different under the microscope and they respond differently to treatment. Cure rates for children are much higher than for most adult cancers and more than 70% of all children can now be completely cured.

Leukemias, brain and other nervous system tumours, lymphomas (lymph node cancers), bone cancers, soft tissue sarcomas, kidney cancers, eye cancers, and adrenal gland cancers are the most common cancers of children, while skin, prostate, breast, lung, and colorectal cancers are the most common in adults.

The stage of growth and development is another important difference between adults and children; the immaturity of children's organ systems often has important treatment implications.



*Where do children with cancer go for treatment?
There are tx. centers all over the country and in just about every state!! I myself prefer that if you are going to choose a Hospital you go to St. Jude's children's Hospital or Cure Search! Again this is due to the fact that they do fund childhood cancer research!!


*Childhood Cancer has been on the rise the past decade, what are your thoughts on the cause of the unusual rise?
Well, in my opinion it is the rise in industrial plants and definitely here in Louisiana that is the case.
There is also so many new products out now that we really don't know that much about but we use them any ways. I would and am personally going back to the old ways of thinking. I am going ALL ORGANIC!! Too scared for my family to do anything less!! I love them too much!


*It�s hard to know what to say when a family member let alone a child is first told they have cancer.........what advice can you give to family and friends who want to help?
Ahh, that is a good question ...but as always the best answer is to listen and let them do the talking and always be there for them. Even if ur just in the room with them...that is enough..if they want to cry...just rub there back and console them that way. If they want to talk be there to listen and comfort and always encourage....nver under any circumstances give them a reason to stop hoping!!!!! HOPE is the reason we live!!!


*What is the best advice you can give to people who would like to start their own Charitable website/organization?
be patient...it takes time and lots of research and dedication. I really did this all on my own.... Noone helped me. Noone wanted to help. You see as much as it sounds like people would want to help in such a situation.....not many people stop and actually take the time to put the effort into helping other human beings!!


*Thank you so much for taking the time to tell us about your wonderful website......is there anything else you would like to add?
Take time to enjoy life and enjoy children!! They are our future...don't we want our future to be BRIGHTER!!!???
Love you guys always,
Dawn

Special thanks to you Dawn for taking the time to share your story with us!


Please feel free to contact Dawn about how you can get involved or share your own story and thoughts!

www.lawebsofhope.com

This Etsy Store is So medioXcore!

It's a Very Etsy World!


http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5394563

I recently have been fortunate to get to know a lovely girl named Angie! She is possibly the sweetest girl I have ever gotten a chance to meet.....and even more possibly the biggest supporter of CP aprons on the planet! Angie was one of the first CP Gal's and was even blogged about it too! Not only is she nice, she is super talented as well! Angie and a few of her friends hand make some very unique designs, from Angie's hand painted Trinket Boxes and adorable Hair Accessories, Megan's Zine featuring her interpretations and snapshots of her world and Chris's amazing naturalistic Photographic Prints of the time and space that we call "Planet Earth"!

Please check out their Etsy store and show your support!
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5394563

Please also check out Angie's Covina CA area website (www.freecakesforkidscovina.com) a wonderful website that helps provide underprivileged kids with cake on their Birthday. This is a national project so if you or someone you know is interested please feel free to sign up!


Megan and Angie

*I love your Etsy store name of �mediocXcore�, what was the meaning and conception behind the name?
medioXcore was coined after seeing a lot of genres of music and lifestyles get the "Xcore" treatment. There was the original hardXcore, emoXcore, even people using the term "appleXcore", plus a ton of others. I guess people thought words looked pretty cool that way. Well I thought that being mediocre was pretty hardcore, thus medioXcore was born.


Trinket Box by Angie


*Question for Angie, What is your inspiration behind your lovely creations, such as your hand painted Trinket boxes and shabby chic crocheted hair accessories?
I'm a total sucker for hair accessories. Everyday I've got a bow clip or headband in my hair, so I figured why not make my own? The ideas for the trinket boxes mostly come from stuff I like. I love gnomes so I thought a gnome box would be cute. I also get ideas from different stationery. I just love cutesy things.



Trinket Box by Angie


*Question for Megan, What is your inspiration behind the name, poetry and artwork of your Viva Invierno Zine?
My zine is called Viva Invierno, which I chose because winter is my favorite season. I get a lot done in winter. My goal with my writing is to present a snapshot in words. I want to create a scene that will put you in the middle of where I was standing and make you see and feel everything that is going on.


Viva Invierno Zine by Megan
*Question for Chris, What is your inspiration behind your Photographic prints, please expound on your love of making things with light?
Chris loves to photograph nature, especially waterfalls and mountain scenes. He also likes experimenting with night-time photography to make swirls and loops of bright electric light. One of his favorite techniques is using a delayed shutter-release and twirling the camera by the strap in the middle of a fireworks show or carnival and seeing what shows up!


Photographic Print by Chris

*What type of materials are used when making your unique creations?
My favorite material is felt. It's my best friend! haha I use felt and buttons for my pouches. For the trinket boxes I use unfinished wood boxes, stationery, glue and acrylic paint. And for my hair clips I use yarn, buttons and barrettes.


Pouches by Angie


*All three of you make some very unique creations, have any of you studied or are currently studying art?
Angie: Sadly, I have not studied art. I consider myself to have bursts of creativity, but I don't consider myself to be an artist in any sense. It's all in the name of fun for me!


Coasters by Megan

Megan: I've taken art classes, but after the last college art teacher I had said my drawing style looked like that of an insane person, I decided I was done with that stuff. I've taken photography classes, but since I like "toy" cameras, like Holgas, the best, a lot of the proper training goes out the window when you use those. It's more fun to make your own rules and see what you come up.


Tote by Megan

*A very Etsy question....what is your most prized handmade possession?
I'd have to say the red heart pillow my boyfriend made for me for our anniversary. To save money, we decided to give each other something handmade. His grandma is a sewing queen, so she helped him. It's the cutest thing ever.


*What are your goals for the future?
I've been taking cake decorating classes, so I'd like to get more into cake decorating.
I've started a chapter of Free Cakes For Kids (www.freecakesforkidscovina.com) and I'm working hard on spreading the word. Of course, I'll continue my crafting. I just want to make people smile with my creations.



Photographic Print by Chris


*Can your creations be found anywhere else?
So far, they're only available on Etsy.


*What advice can you give to DIY artists that are interested in selling their creations?
Just get out there and do it! I hesitated for a long time with selling my stuff. I didn't think anyone would like it, let alone buy it! But I've received a lot of wonderful and supportive feedback that now I only wish I started sooner!


*A question for all my cupcake lovers......what is your favorite type
of cupcake? ;)
I found a cinnamon toast cupcake recipe a few weeks ago and tried it out. Those were the most delicious cupcakes I've ever had! Super yummy!


*Thank you so much for taking the time to interview with me, is there anything else you would like to share?
I just want to say thank you CP! Your aprons inspire me to bake, bake, bake! You're the best. <3



Thank you Angie, Megan and Chris for sharing your lovely creations with me!

piPer rUbie - A Super Woman Pin-Up!

Superwoman has nothing on piPer rUbie!


piPer is modeling the Cindy Apron in "Retro-Fit"
All Photography by Ambitious Misfit (www.ambitiousmisfit.com)

piPer is not just another pretty face, she works hard and is passionate about her family and career...being a beautiful pin-up is just the icing on the cake!
She is a loving wife and mom that supports the fight against autism, PETA and is currently studying to be a Special Education Teacher and the list goes on and on!

_________________________________________________________________________________________

*Tell us a little about yourself?
I am a mother of three beautiful yet crazy children; Devon 15, Danika 11, and Cameron 7. I have been married for 11 years and still get butterflies when I see my husband walk into the room. I am a vegetarian whom loves animals and I am actively involved with PETA. I am currently in college pursuing a degree in special education and I have worked as a resource specialist for the Corona Norco school district for three years. I am also very into music and love going to shows, music has always played an important roll in my life and recently started pursuing my childhood dream of being a pin up model.


*How did you discover the world of pinup modeling?
I have always been a fan of classic pinups, Marilyn Monroe, Yvonne DiCarlo their grace and classic beauty has always caught my attention and fascinated me as a teenager. last year I finally decided that I would look into the pin up modeling world and did a photo shoot (which wasn't very lovely) but feel in love with being in front of the camera. I entered the Kitten Koffin Zombies pin up calendar contest and somehow won the title of Miss September 2009. after that win I entered other smaller contests just for fun and started modeling for companies such as Vintage Vixxen by Miss Vicky M.



*Does your pinup persona carry into your everyday life?
I feel like it does to some extent, I do dress pin up in vintage to work on most days. I love doing my hair and makeup in vintage styles. but I also can go out on a limb and dress like a punk rock girl. piPer ruBie is kind of like an alter ego at times, i guess.





*What is your favorite style to model?
I will try it all - he he - my favorite are pinup and punk/alternative styles but I am open to try almost anything once.


*What is your greatest inspiration?
When it comes to modeling Marilyn Monroe's and Yvonne DiCarlo�s lives have fascinated since I was a child and they are my biggest inspiration.

When it comes to life my son Cameron inspires me. He suffers from autism and his daily struggle to continue trying things that scare and frustrate him inspires me to continue pursuing my dreams.


*What is your life�s ambition?
I have always wanted to help children with disabilities. I am pursuing this dream currently and have worked and volunteered in special ed since high school.




*Do you have any current projects you are working on at the moment?
I have been doing some modeling for Vintage Vixxen, on the modeling front. I have also recently done some shoots for Zombie Girl hair accessories. I am very excited to be modeling your aprons - I love them, they are great!! I am also involved in the Dead Man's Drive Pinup contest in October.

Be sure to vote for piPer the whole month of October http://www.myspace.com/deadmansdrivecarshow

I also love art, I paint, and create journals out of recycled materials. I love making things for my friends and am always trying to come up with something new and different.


*What is one thing that not many people know about you that you would like to share?
I am a gestational surrogate mother and have given birth to two beautiful children to help create two different families.


*Three words that best describe yourself?
Spontaneous, Trustworthy, and Caring





*A question for all my cupcake lovers......what is your favorite type of cupcake?
I LOVE cupcakes - it is hard to choose just one - I LOVE them all!!!


*Thank you so much for taking the time to interview with me, is there anything else you would like to share?
I would like to thank you for interviewing me!!


xOx piPer rUbie


Thank you piPer for being so sweet and for modeling my apron :)



Where to find more of piPer rUbie:
http://www.myspace.com/dawnhickam


You can also check out more pics of piPer and purchase the "Retro-Fit" apron on my website www.cupcakeprovocateur.com & http://www.myspace.com/cupcakecouturecreations

Eva Owner of Little Lily Designs - Proves Bows Aren't Just for Babies!

Eva from Little Lily Designs is one talented chick! She makes the most fabulous bows and hair accessories for every occasion you can think of!


Eva of Little Lily Designs modeling her bow and the CP Cindy apron in "To Cute to Cook"

Her bows have quite the following and been featured on pin-up model Brenda Lee for a recent Cupcake Provocateur` photo shoot among countless other pin-up models such as Bernie Dexter and Dayna Delux. Her bows are available in shops around the world from the Good old USA to our friends in Switzerland! Eva is a self made entrepreneur and has created some of the best hair accessories out there! Her designs truly stand on their own. Eva is a very ambitious DIY gal, and being super sweet and easy to work with doesn't hurt either! And she was sweet enough to model one of my aprons in the above pic :)



Model Brenda Lee wearing Little Lily yellow bow and a CP Cindy Apron in "Farmer's Daughter"
Photo EML Photos

*How did you discover your talent of making such unique hair
accessories?
When I was pregnant with my daughter who is now almost 3 I saw all of
these cute bows for little ones and fell in love. I had to start making
them.A friend of mine saw them and decided she needed them as well. It just escalated from there.


Model Bernie Dexter wearing a Little Lily plum satin bow
Photos by Levi Dexter


*What was your inspiration to create Little Lily Designs?

Truly my love for bows! Everyone needs one in their hair.

*What is your life's ambition for yourself and Little Lily Designs?
Right now I am where I want to be. Of course there is always room for
growth but, I am proud of what this little business has become.


*Do you plan on launching any other creations aside from your amazing
hair accessories?
Right now I really am focusing on my bows! I do plan on
possibly coming out with coordinating bows for some of my shops! They
will be a little different than my normal bows. Be on the look out!


Model Dayna Delux wearing A white Little Lily bow
Photo by Bettie Page Clothing

*Do you have any current projects you are working on at the moment?
Actually, I am getting ready to have a booth at the car show at Viva
Las Vegas 2009 so all of my focus has been on that and my current orders.

*What do you consider to be your greatest accomplishment?
Aside from my children and great marriage honestly this business. I work very hard at it and take great pride in my work!!


*What is one thing that not many people know about you that you would like to share?
I am a photographer on the side. I have been taking pictures since
I was very young and love it! I finally was able to afford a professional
camera this past year and have been taking photos of models and doing
shoots for other companies and it has been a blast! You can see my work at www.emlphotos.com.


Model Brenda Lee wearing Little Lily yellow bow and a CP Cindy Apron in "Farmer's Daughter"
Photo EML Photos


*Three words that best describe yourself?
Ambitious, Creative,Outgoing

*What advice do you have for DIY gals, that want to start their own
business?
My best advice is to get your name out to as many people as
possible! Spread the word let people know your product is awesome and
they need it!

*A question for all my cupcake lovers......what is your favorite type
of cupcake? ;)
Oh man I keep thinking about lemon cupcakes with cream
cheese frosting yummy!

*Thank you so much for taking the time to interview with me, is there anything else you would like to share?
I just want to say Thank You CP, I love your aprons they are so adorable! Also, a HUGE Thank You to everyone who has bought one of my bows and all of the people who have helped me get where I am. I would also like to send a special thank you to all of the gorgeous models who have sent me beautiful pictures of them wearing my bows.
-- Eva

Thank you Eva for interviewing with me and being such a great person to work with <3

Where to find more of Little Lily Designs:
www.littlelilydesigns.net
myspace.com/littlelilydesigns

Special thanks to:
www.EMLphotos.com
www.littlelilydesigns.net
www.berniedexter.com and Levi Dexter Photos
www.daynadelux.com
www.bettiepageclothing.com

You can also check out more pics from EML Photos on my website: www.cupcakeprovocateur.com & http://www.myspace.com/cupcakecouturecreations

Brenda Lee - The Sweetest Pin-up in All the Land!

Born to a Cabaret Singer Mother and named after 50's singer Brenda Lee....there is no doubt that the lovely Brenda lee was born to be a pin-up!


Brenda is modeling the Cindy Apron in "Farmers Daughter"
All Photos courtesy of EML Photos
All Hair accessories courtesy of Little Lily Designs

I had the opportunity to get to know pin-up model Brenda Lee when she was working with Eva from EML Photos for a shoot to model one of my aprons. Brenda embraces the pin-up lifestyle from A-Z, she is a mom that loves to cook and take care of her children, and agrees that there is nothing wrong with looking cute doing it! She is truly a pleasure to work with and a lovely kind hearted gal! I learned allot about her doing this feature and I admire her for staying such a strong and beautiful person, a person that I am sure her mother would be proud of.




*I love the �Ballad of Brenda Lee� that you have on
Modelmayhem.com, it sounds like you were born to be a pin-up model
literally?
Well, being a pin-up is who I am. Its my whole lifestyle. I mean I wake up every day and listen to oldies and rock n roll, crank up Mr. Cash any chance I get, and put on my red lipstick and pencil skirts and head off to my fabulous job. I literally get asked on a daily basis if I am going to a 50�s event or if I am in costume for some reason. I have never really followed trends but I am noticing that this style is becoming quite the trend, so I am excited that it is being more accepted and admired.


*Your mother was a Cabaret Singer...what was it like being on tour
with your mother growing up?
My mother was fabulous. She was such an inspiration. We traveled a lot and I went to a lot of different schools but it helped me become the outgoing person I am today. I had to always make new friends and adapt to change and I truly believe that is why I am so outgoing and embrace the changes in life that are brought upon me on a daily basis. I am very fortunate that I have my mom�s music to listen to and look back on to keep her legacy alive. One day I hope to be able to get up on stage and sing a song in my mother�s memory. Her favorites were Patsy Cline and Brenda Lee.




*What a fascinating childhood?
My childhood was totally fascinating. I mean most of my childhood was in the Bay Area, which was a blessing. It is so pretty and fashion in the Bay is so diverse so I was able to learn a lot. I grew up with 4 awesome big brothers and I guess that helped keep be super girly. I was always trying to get their attention and dragging them to my dance recitals and making them put on talent shows with me!


*How did you discover the world of Pin-up modeling?
I had a photographer actually take my picture one day at a car show, and someone mentioned the likeness of my style to the old WWII pin-ups so I researched it and became more fascinated with the classy pin-ups of the past and decided to pursue it more.

*Does your Pin-up persona carry into your everyday life?
Oh yes in every way. That is why it is such a pleasure to work with you because when I am cooking homemade potpies or Cupcakes at home, I get to look stunning and glamorous in your aprons! I love to cook, and I believe even in the kitchen you need to accessorize properly. You will see in a lot of the photos and concepts I create for you, that is me, Brenda Lee, every day.



*What is your favorite style to model?
Pin-Up of course.


*What is your greatest inspiration?
My greatest inspiration is my children. They are a reflection of me and I want to be able to leave a legacy for them to remember. I want to teach them that true beauty comes from within and it resonates for the whole world to see.



*What is your life�s ambition?
My life�s ambition is to learn and continue growing as a person. I want to live, laugh and love, (how cheesy but true). I am reading a book right now called The Game of Life, and I really love it. I want to be happy and make others around me happy and joyful. My goal is to retire one day and see my little one grow up to be happy, productive, successful adults.


*Do you have any current projects you are working on at the moment?
I am always working on something. I just finished a calendar shoot for the troops, and I am working on updating some Bandit Clothing Catalog items. Her summer playsuits are just divine and fun. I am also going to be working on your Holiday aprons, so I am totally excited about that.



*What is one thing that not many people know about you that you would
like to share?
I am now doing stylist work. Teaching pretty ladies how to be a pin-up and put the look together. It is so much fun; I really enjoy the work that I do.

*Three words that best describe yourself?
Emotional, Funny, and Loving!



*A question for all my cupcake lovers......what is your favorite type
of cupcake? ;)
Are you kidding me! All cupcakes are my favorite!! I do love cherry and chocolate together though!

Thank you Brenda for taking the time to chat with me and being so kind to model my aprons <3


Where to find more of Brenda Lee:
http://www.myspace.com/lady_spade
http://www.modelmayhem.com/688009

Special thanks to:
www.EMLphotos.com
www.littlelilydesigns.net

You can also check out more pics of Brenda and purchase the "Farmer's Daughter" apron on my website www.cupcakeprovocateur.com & http://www.myspace.com/cupcakecouturecreations

A Pin-Up Legend in the Making!


Bernie modeling the Cindy apron in "Yankee Doodle Diva"
Photos by Levi Dexter

Bernie is the quintessential Rockabilly gal! Bernie truly lives the Rockabilly lifestyle From head to toe, the way she dresses,the music she listens to, her hair and makeup, she even managed to snag herself a Rockabilly Cat himself! Her husband Rockabilly musician Levi Dexter is not only a talented musical artistic but photographs Bernie exclusively and I must say they make a great team.
Bernie takes her career very seriously that is why I was so very honored when she agreed to model one of my aprons Bernie is really wonderful to work with. With all her popularity she has managed to still stay a sweet and down to earth gal!


Bernie modeling the Cindy apron in "Yankee Doodle Diva"
Photos by Levi Dexter

*How did you discover the world of pinup modeling?
I was a make up artist , hair dresser & wardrobe person on photo shoots & i was always being asked to show the models how to pose.
heheee..



*How does your pinup persona carry into your everyday life?
Well i am the same. i mean i am not hard to spot. your average rockabilly girl.
most of the time i have a ponytail & dungarees on.



Bernie modeling the Cindy apron in "Yankee Doodle Diva"
Photos by Levi Dexter

*How do you think the role of pinup girl has changed from the 40?s & 50?s till today?
It really hasn't. the pin up girl is the girl next door who looks like she won't, but DOES pose suggestively.


*I love that your husband is also your exclusive photographer....what would be your favorite & least favorite part of working with your husband all the time?
It is wonderful. i honestly have no complaints. we are best friends. he is super fun & really knows where i am coming
from. we are influenced by the same things . Music, movies ect...


*What is your greatest inspiration?
Rockabilly music. i mean from the 1950s. i envision shoots & scenes when i hear it!

*What is your life?s ambition?
To be immortal.


*Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
With a 2 year old!


*Do you have any current projects you are working on at the moment?
I am working on new projects all the time. my most exciting is working with Olivia.


Bernie modeling the Cindy apron in "Yankee Doodle Diva"
Photos by Levi Dexter

*A question for all my cupcake lovers......what is your favorite type of cupcake ;)?
Oh that is easy!!!!! i love white cake & butter cream frosting!


*Thank you so much for taking the time to interview with me, is there anything else
you would like to share?
I really LOVE the aprons!


Thank you again Bernie for answering my questions, modeling my designs and being so lovely to work with <3

Where to find more of Bernie Dexter:
www.berniedexter.com
http://www.myspace.com/bernie_dexter

Special thanks to:
Photos by Levi Dexter

You can also check out the pics from Bernie on my website: www.cupcakeprovocateur.com & http://www.myspace.com/cupcakecouturecreations