Today's Cupcake is.....

Silent Sunday

2011-10-02T10:33:00.001+01:00

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Ella's Bakehouse - Covent Garden

2011-04-01T11:39:00.001+01:00

Well I headed off to London Town this past weekend to pay a little visit to my baby brother and as usual he knew it would be a sin not to find me at least 1 cupcake to try.

He has in the past taken me to Hummingbird and Buttercup, so the mission was on as we couldn't travel too far as we had Grayson (my little cupcake) with us.

We headed to Covent Garden to show my Mom around the Sunday market and to show my sweet tooth to Ella's Bakehouse.

Website Bio for Ella's Bakehouse....

"These are not just cupcakes, these are Ella’s bakehouse cupcakes made in London town by Lorraine Pascale and her merry band of highly skilled Cakers.

But what makes these cakes so darn special I hear your cry? Using mainly British ingredients the sponge is brushed with a light vanilla sugar syrup to make the cupcakes extra tasty and super-duper moist for added sensory pleasure."

The queue was out the door and the little tables and chairs out front were full to the brim, it was already well into the afternoon so I was a little worried about choice but how wrong was I to worry, they had ample choice and well stocked which for me was the first big tick.

The lady behind the counter was super sweet and polite and very efficient, tick 2.

The store was decorated very cutely and had a little kitsch vibe which we all know I am super fond of, so tick 3.

I chose to only indulge in 1 cupcake for myself and one for my hubby ( don't ask me why, great regret) obviously I always usually go for a Red Velvet, being I can never bake them right but I was in total surprise when I saw their couture flavour of Malteaser. !Yummy!

One of my favourite sweets/chocolate ever, so I am afraid Mr.Red Velvet as beautiful as he looked was pushed aside.

The cakes were decorated beautifully, not too much decoration as a cupcakery cupcake shouldn't have in my opinion, very tasteful with a sparkle of glitter for that great girly-ness.

I bought the hubby a Banoffee Cupcake, which when telling him outside the store I got a large glare for as he hadn't also wanted a Malteaser - oops. But I can honestly say he was not disappointed, he loved it, we both agreed our cakes were super moist a real tick for us and there was lashings of buttercream (a little too much for me but that's cause I am fussy).

I would have liked a little more crushed Malteaser in mine but by no means is this a criticism more of me being a greedy sweet tooth for Malteasers.

My mom also bought the Raspberry and Lemon ( I am sure that was the flavour) and said it was incredibly good, she equally agreed one of the moistest cupcakes she had eaten.

The other thing I loved about the Ella's bakehouse experience which shall make me return is the fact they box your cakes (no order to small) which for a person travelling back to Kent is a HUGE tick.

So all in all, I was over the moon, I just wish they were around the corner from me, I shall be going back for sure and more than 2 little cupcakes shall be leaving the shelves next time.

If you are ever in Covent Garden to pop by to Ella's Bakehouse and maybe check out the www as they do deliver.

Baked and Delicious Giveaway

2011-03-29T12:46:00.003+01:00

Yep a giveaway guys and girls, how lucky are we. You may remember from my last post that Britain has a new Baking Publication - Baked and Delicious and they have kindly offered one of my lucky readers advanced issues 2-5 plus all the silicone bake ware for free, awesome huh ?

Just pop by my other blog to enter the competition and please do spread the word.

Thanks
Kara
xx

Baked and Delicious - Magazine Review

2011-03-15T13:24:00.006Z

You may remember my last post showed a new anticipated Baking magazine Baked and Delicious, which was just about to hit British shelves, well I was fortunate enough to be sent a copy of the Magazine by its publishers so I could review it for all my readers.

The Magazine promised to offer "Sweet and Savoury, traditional and modern recipes gorgeously illustrated and full if tips for better baking." and I must say I was not disappointed. It came with 7-9 recipes for so many different baked goods, including Focaccia, Dundee Cake, Choux Pastry and my all time fave Vanilla Cupcakes.

At first I was unsure if this was enough recipes but then I thought about the fact that its a fortnightly not monthly publication and decided its probably just the right amount. It provides a variety of recipes most of which you could try most nights of the week and to be honest just enough for a fortnight of free time. (which most of us don't have now a days).

I found the step by step instructions (which come in photo and written description) very helpful and easy to follow, they were clear and if a novice baker you would be able to follow them easily. At this point my only real complaint (and its not much of one) is I wish they did the step by step for every recipe not just a selected few.

I felt it only fair that to review the magazine I should defiantly have tried making something. As time was short for me this week I picked the Vanilla Cupcakes a true favourite and thought lets see how this recipe measures up to the many I have used. I chose to only make 1/2 a dozen and was pleased when I got to use the free silicon cupcake cases that come with the magazine.

I must say I was very pleased with the result, as I stated before the instructions where beautifully easy to follow and the cakes themselves came out delicious ( my hubby added some of the best I have made) the butter cream icing for my personal taste was a little runny but all in all a very tasty recipe.

So shall I be subscribing to the magazine ?

I think I honestly shall, I know I shouldn't as I have very little space to store it but it does come with a free gift binder in one of the issues along with a whole host of silicone bake ware and cake tins etc and who can say no to such great gifts.

So go check out the magazine and I would love to hear your views.

Kara

Finished Cupcake

A New Baking Magazine for Home Cooks

2011-03-04T20:57:00.005Z

I had a great email the other day informing me of a new Baking Magazine due to be released in the UK, so I thought I best share the love so all you fellow cake lovers out there can run out to the shops on Wed 9th March 2011 and buy, buy, buy.

I have been kindly sent a copy of the press release and some first look photo's to share to give us all a taster.

A New Baking Magazine for Home Cooks

Baked & Delicious is a new fortnightly magazine packed with recipes, from international classics to traditional favourites. Featuring easy to follow steps, it brings together the very best of today’s cooking, that you can bake at home.

Along with these wonderful recipes, you can also collect the latest in silicone bakeware. Fast becoming the bakeware of choice by all home bakers, it is hardwearing, versatile and easy-to-clean. Collecting week by week, the range will enable you to bake all the delicious recipes with ease.

Subscribe now to receive four additional free gifts worth over £35! These include a beautiful designed binder to keep all your magazines pristine, a cake slice, matching cake tin set and a set of electronic scales. The magazine is not available in-stores until 9th March 2011 however you can find out more information and subscribe here.

I am really interested to read the article on silicone bakeware, I have used cupcake cases but that's it and have heard they are quite easy to use, also the pavlova in issue 2 looks scrummy.

As soon as I have read the first issue I shall be back with my feelings on the mag, so watch this space as I try to return to the world of cupcake blogging.

Apologies

2010-09-15T09:13:00.001+01:00

365 - Day 250
Originally uploaded by innocentcharmer

For not being around, life has been majorly hetic and it seems that this is not going to improve as we are expec ting a 2nd little cupcake.

We are very pleased all be it a little apprehensive (due to G medical problems) and can't wait for the baby to be here in May 2011 (a while off).

I have got cupcake related things to share, including a giveaway, so once I can I shall be back.

Thanks to all.
Kara
xx

I do love a good SALE

2010-06-25T11:42:00.000+01:00

From my last post you may have seen the sweet cupcake teapcup and saucer my hubby treated me too.

Well last week we took a trip to Fenwicks so he could show me what else they did in the line, as we were walking past I noticed the sign SALE in the kitchen department and took a wonder and found some cupcake goodies.

I was a good girl and limited myself to 2, a new Cupcake Jar ( I must start putting stuff in them) and a Cupcake Trivet which is very useful.

They had more stuff so I shall have to make sure I don't sneak into town.

Cupcake Gifts

2010-06-12T21:38:00.003+01:00

I have been very lucky these past couple of weeks and have been fortunate to receive a few cupcake gifts.

1st is part of Package Project, a great handmade Cupcake Plushie, now living in the Kitchen.

2nd - my beautiful Flickr Friend Anna, she sent me some Cupcake items for having picnics, they are super cute.

And last but no means least my gorgeous hubby turned up with the most amazing Cupcake Teacup and Saucer - hand painted.

So what about you, received any cupcake gifts?

Flickr Faves - Art for the Walls

2010-06-10T14:23:00.001+01:00

Flickr Faves - Art for the Walls
Originally uploaded by innocentcharmer

We are moving home in the summer and I have realised that although I have a great deal of Cupcake trinkets in my kitchen I have very little Art for the walls, so today I popped around Flickr to see what is around and I thought I would share.

I am thinking of doing a cupcake ATC swap as I would love a collection of cupcake ATC's on one wall.

If you have any art suggestions for me, do tell.

Kara

What's Up Cupcake ?

2010-05-31T12:07:00.005+01:00

On Saturday the Hubby, Grayson and I took a walk in Whitstable and browsed a few shops of course.

I had heard on the grapevine that we finally had a Cupcakery in Whitstable in Kent, so I made it my mission to find it and finally at about 4pm soaking wet from the rain we walked up to this adorable Green and Pink shop front and there is was....

What's Up Cupcake.

The window was full of gorgeous Cupcake gift items (which they sell) and had such a lovely feel. I walked into a gorgeous little pretty shop with Cupcake Trinkets all around and then a lovely counter with Cupcakes. The shop was very busy and there were only a handful of Cupcakes left (obviously a good day) so I quickly snapped up the last 2 Vanilla Cupcakes before someone else could.

The staff were in beautiful matching uniforms and wrapped our cupcakes so diligently, if the store had not been so busy I honestly would have taken piccys and had a chat as it is gorgeous inside.

Ashley and I waited till we got home to try our Cupcakes and I must say they were scrummy, the cake was incredibly moist and dense as I love my cupcakes a real bite and with the little Jazzies on top they had just the right amount of decoration.

I can honestly say I shall be re-visiting, not only to try and get another flavour but also to get some piccy's for you all too see.

So please people if you are ever local to Whitstable, go visit What's Up Cupcake, as it is so lovely to finally have our very own Kentish Cupcakery.

xox

My 'Next' Delights

2010-05-27T21:15:00.005+01:00

Thanks you my gorgeous husband for my new Cupcake Collectibles, thanks Next for making them.

Cookie Jar and Money Box - Don't you love the scallop detailing.

Eat Me

2010-05-25T14:48:00.004+01:00

Last weekend I got round to making some Raspberry and White Chocolate Cupcakes from my "Eat Me" book.

Its a time consuming recipe, you have to make your own Raspberry Jam and White Chocolate Cream Sauce but its worth it as they are a lovely flavour.

I will be changing a couple of things next time, I shall put less Raspberries in the cakes and add less of the Jam to the Buttercream Frosting as it made it very runny but that's the gift of baking to learn.

I also got to use my new Lakeland Piping Syringe, I think it would have a done good job if the Buttercream had not been so runny.

If you would like the recipe just let me know.

Today's Cupcake Is... May 2010 Flickr Faves

2010-05-17T10:28:00.001+01:00

Today's Cupcake Is... May 2010 Flickr Faves
Originally uploaded by innocentcharmer

I promised I would try and keep up with my Flickr Faves and although I did not make it in April I have a lovely selection for you this month.

Firstly gorgeous handmade hairslides, I love these, although I don't think my super thick hair would. The pink colours are just awesome.

The canvases are the cutest thing, I have been thinking when I move in the summer I shall need some more Cupcake Art for the walls so these are a total inspiration.

The Lampwork Cupcake earrings are outstanding, this lady makes some of the best lampwork I have seen and she has a whole range of cupcake jewels, so get check it out.

The cupcake lampshade maybe in my home in the hear future, I just need to make sure my new kitchen will have space for it, so watch out.

Retro Cupcakes - are a real fave of mine and these are super pretty, I only wish I had a little girl to indulge these delights in.

Lastly the cupcake liners in a jar - totally love. I am off to Brighton on holiday tomorrow and trust me I will be on the look out for a glass jar to show mine off in, so simple yet so pretty.

So I hope you have enjoyed this months favourites, please click on the picture to go check out these peoples photostreams.

Kara
x

Sophie Allport

2010-05-16T06:20:00.003+01:00

Sophie Allport is a family run English Business that has just have the cutest stuff ever.

I wish I only had a little girl so I could par-take in wearing matching apron's and oven mitts whilst baking cupcakes and their new 'Gingerbreadmen and Cupcakes' range is the one I would choose.

I mean I am not sure what more you could ask for in a print, its Pink, its has stars on it, cute little Gingerbreadmen and CUPCAKES.

Here is just a very small selection of all the marvels they have in the line.....

I think this bag maybe on my shoulder soon

All pictures property of Sophie Allport

Want to know the best bit, go buy 'Your Home' magazine this month and you will find a 20% discount offer for Sophie Allport, win win.

Cupcake Sparkles

2010-04-23T12:27:00.001+01:00

365 - Day 106
Originally uploaded by innocentcharmer

Thought I would drop in and show you these gorgeous Cupcake Sparkles I got this past week.
They are so cute, its a Necklace and Brooch, that were both in the ASOS sale, they did matching earrings too but I have so many I took a rain check on those.

I am pretty sure the Necklace was £8.00 and the Brooch was £6.00.

They sparkle lovely, so head on over and trea yourself, every girl deserves some Cupcake Jewels.

Get your Groceries and a Treat

2010-03-30T10:09:00.004+01:00

Now many of you may know I am a huge shopping fan and even that of the weekly food shop but because of time and financial restraints my food shop has become a thing of the past and I now use Tesco Online and pick my favourites and just buy, I can't complain cause this is not a luxury we had as much as 3 years ago but with the Online Favourite Shop you do not get to walk around and see all the new goodies Tesco (or your local) has to offer, well this week I had a treat, Sunday I got to go to Tesco, although I must say with a groan, as I was super tired and full of cold. But once I walked into Tesco my life got much better, as I was met with not 1, not 2 but a whole host of Cupcake Goodies to start collecting. I was over the moon and it brought a smile to my face (some may say this is sad).

I was a good girl and only bought 3 items (financial restraints as I mentioned) but I thought to myself its ok I will get myself a piece a week, then it hit me we do online shopping, so you must have heard my jumps for joy across Britain once I got home as much to my sheer pleasure I find Tesco have put the line Online for me to buy with my weekly groceries - I LOVE YOU TESCO.

You can go to Tesco to check them out but as of yet they do not have pictures up :-( but here I have included a piccy of my 3 goodies, 2 melamine bowls and a tray, the whole line is identical.

I thought I would list what I remember they had for those that are interested...

Mugs,

Bowls,

Tray,

Worktop Saver,

Plastic Mat,

2 Tins.

Hope all are well and don't forget folks, if you have anything Cupcake related you would like me to blog about please feel free to email me, I am always on the look out for a new interesting post. kara8096@gmail.com

March 2010 Flickr Handmade Faves

2010-03-18T10:42:00.001Z

Today's Cupcake Is... March 2010 Flickr Handmade Faves
Originally uploaded by innocentcharmer

I thought my Flickr Fave's this month would have a twist, many of you know I make and craft and still when I can sell my wares.

I am also a fan of buying handmade (although not as much as I like) and have handmade wares around my home.

So today my Flickr Fave's are also all handmade and some I believe are even for sale if they take your fancy, just click on the flickr links.

I love the ring in the top corner, its very rare you see Silver jewellery Cupcake inspired.

My friend Jenny made the great pendant Necklaces below, I have a gorgeous custom piece of her art and feel very blessed.

Mickey Mouse and Disney were for sure going to get in there as I and Grayson are huge fans.

I hope you are all well, my Cupcake Baking has been at an all time low of late but I am hoping Easter will be a great occasion for me to bake.

Kara
x

Growing Cupcakes

2010-03-05T20:55:00.003Z

I popped by GMTV's website today and was so pleased to see Cupcake inspired gifts for Mother's.

I see the world has finally started answering my call.

They had the usual Cupcake gifts but then I cam across the 2 cutest things I have seen in a while.

Is there any Green Fingers reading, well lookie here.

Aren't they cute, I of course especially love the Teacup set as I am a massive fan anyway.

I hinted to Ashley, but I think he and Grayson may have already got me a host of goodies.

Exclusively for You also has some other lovely gifts, they have been added to my favourite bar and I am sure they will yours too.

Off out all weekend, not Cupcake related but hoping one will crop up somewhere.

Have a lovely weekend.

Kara

xxoxx

Urban Outfitters are Cupcake God's

2010-02-21T20:35:00.002Z

Its funny a year ago you had to look long and hard on the high street to find anything cupcake inspired, well I was obviously a trend setter ahead of the times, cause now they are everywhere, as I found out on Valentines Day. The hubby took me for a quick nip round Bluewater to choose myself a gift and I had already decided it would be a nice piece of Jewelery from Urban Outfitters(check out my flickr) whilst I was there I was looking at there Kitsch home goodies, cause we all know I am the queen of Kitsch and to my delight I found CUPCAKES, these had to be bought obviously, my Hubby is so good and patient with my cupcake collection as there is certainly no more room in our kitchen but he says "you'll find it". Man I Love him.
I had said no to the Key Covers but he snuck them in without me seeing.

So did your Valentines, come with Cupcake Treats ?

On another subject my gorgeous baby boy had his big tests this week, under General he had a Lumbar Puncture and Bloods totalling 4 1/2 A4 pages of tests, he was amazing and everyone could not believe how good he was, so fingers crossed now for the results.

Love to All
Kara
xox

Happy Valentines

2010-02-14T12:38:00.001Z

Happy Valentines
Originally uploaded by innocentcharmer

Hope you all have a lovely day enjoying time with Family and Friends that you love.
Valentines to me is about all the people I love not just my gorgeous Husband.

Picture is a Buttercup Red Velvet and Cream Cheese Frosting, for anyone in Kent you can shout YIPPEE as Buttercup Cupcakery of London has opened a great stall In Bluewater Shopping Centre,

More pictures on my Flickr.

Kara
x

A couple more pressies

2010-01-01T11:12:00.004Z

Cupcake baking book, Bag from Debenhams, Cupcake Keyring and the most gorgeous Links of London Cupcake Charm

I told you I was a lucky girl, my family know me well and indulged my Cupcake Obsession quite well and even more I have some vouchers to spend so watch this space.

Close up of L of L Charm

Happy New Year to All.
Kara
x

Cupcake Gifts

2009-12-28T15:41:00.004Z

My New Kitchen Aid Mixer - Birthday Pressie

Hello All

I hope you all had a lovely Christmas, mine has been a little hectic but all the same enjoyable.

Firstly I want to apologize (again) for my lack of attendance to my little cupcake blog, my son unfortunately is not getting any better, in fact of late worse, we thought we were going to be in hospital for Xmas but thankfully they let him out on the 23rd. So please bear with me, I have so much cupcake goodness going on in my life just very little time to share.

But on with some pictures, my birthday was a couple weeks before Xmas and I have been very fortunate to receive some awesome cupcake gifts for both occasions and I thought I would share a few if them with you.

Note board - New Look + Notebooks - Wilko

Cupcake Jar (centre) - Matalan + From Debenhams - sugar bowl and duster

Birthday goodies mainly from Next + Tea towels from Primark

Central Jar from Matalan + 2 money boxes New Look

From Tosphop - includes cases, piping kit and book

Primrose Cupcakery Book - yet to visit

Mugs - New Look and TK Maxx

Bargain Worktop Saver from Argos

Hope you have enjoyed looking at my goodies, did anyone else get some cupcake goodies I didn't cause I have some Christmas Money burning a hole.

Kara

xxx

I finally got to Hummingbird's and....

2009-11-01T14:14:00.002Z

forgot my Camera, can you believe it, it was all a bit last minute though.

My little Brother lives in London about 15 minutes from Hummingbird's, he needed a lift home so I offered and he said hey how about we stop and get some cupcakes, well you know me doesn't have to be said twice.

I treated myself and the DH to a box of 6, I got just the simple ones I suppose, 2 vanilla with choc frosting, 2 choc with vanilla frosting, a vanilla on vanilla and a red velvet.

I can honestly say they are the best prof. cupcakes I have tasted, very moist, I wasn't overly keen on the frosting it was a little dry but when I came to the red velvet I was in heaven, I have never had a Cream Cheese frosting before as I have always been put off but what a mistake it was amazing, so soft, sweet and gooey I am in love, I shall definitely be giving it a go at home.

Hummingbird's was a beautiful store their cakes looked awesome but I stopped at cupcakes, I shall defo be going back for not such a quick visit and next time I will remember the camera.

Pictures from my Iphone.

Kara

p.s Thanks to Ann for showing me the world of Hummingbird's, check out her blog for better piccys.

I went in for a storage box

2009-09-23T10:36:00.010+01:00

and came out with these fab goodies.

Some say matalan is a dive I personally say (well for today anyway) they are the shop of god's.

In all fairness every time I go to Matalan I come out with some fab finds but this time is truly one of the best, Anthea Turner has done a lovely kitsch home range there for a while and I am always tempted to buy something pretty but am always very reserved - well this time it was all thrown out the window as she has bought a cupcake collection in and I had to have it.

I got these lovely Oven Mitts, (which I am afraid will never be used - lol) tea towels which also will not be used for there purpose, I am thinking of making the Blue one a piece of art and the full patterned one a plastic bag holder and lastly the gorgeous glasses, which not only have the loveliest Cupcake design but also little pink hearts, polka dots and hearts are my other great passion.

The whole lot only cost me £20 which I personally think is a bargain

Also got an email of Ditsy Daisies this past week saying she has got more cupcake goodies in so go check it out I will be and making a nice little (he he) Xmas list for the family.

Swapsies Anyone

2009-09-11T09:17:00.002+01:00

Hi All,

Quick post, I received this awesome cupcake recipe book, but I already have it, its brand new and has lovely clear recipes, I wondered whether anyone else would like to swap something cupcake related for it, I don't mind what can be handmade or shop bought I thought it would just be nice for someone to get this as apposed to selling it on eBay.

Amazon link for more details.

Anyway let me know by leaving a comment.

Lots of Love

Kara

xox

Finally a post I hear you cry..

2009-08-27T07:48:00.006+01:00

I already have this awesome bunting my sister bought as a gift, I just can't decided how to hang.

Hi All,

Well life has been pretty difficult for me, Grayson my little cupcake has been confirmed to be quite poorly, not life threatening or anything nasty like that but he has been registered disabled at 7 months old. But I am happy to have him here no matter what, he gives the best smiles and makes your heart melt....

Cute doorstop, I must have somewhere for this.

Talking of heart's melting, something else did that to me today, I found this great site through a google search Ditsy Daisies, it is totally awesome, does some great Kara gifts and then as I started searching I realised the lovely lady Sue who owns and runs the site is also a cupcake crazer like me,when I saw her about us description I knew we were kindred spirits "A very warm welcome from Ditsy Daisies. We are based in Cumbria 10 miles from the beautiful market town of Keswick in the Lake District.

I adore anything that is cupcakes related especially if it has polka dots and try to source as many different items as is possible "

And trust me she has lots of cupcake goodies for sale, I mean seriously there is something for all tastes, I have included just a mere few of the items she sells on her site, so go check it out, I have made about a 10 page list for DH to look at for birthday, Xmas or just cause (have to be just cause pressies) I am sure you will find a list too.

Great Cupcake magnet and tote bag, how nice would shopping be with this bag.

I am loving this car freshener I must get one of these, I have been looking for one for quite a while.

Thanks for popping by, don't forget to pop to Ditsy Daisies and say hi or even buy.

Kara

xox

Today's Cupcake is... August Flickr Faves

2009-08-04T13:56:00.002+01:00

Today's Cupcake is... August Flickr Faves
Originally uploaded by innocentcharmer

I know I know this is all I seem to post and for that I am truly sorry, but my life has been very hectic, my little cupcake who was born in January has been very poorly since then, finally now after a lot of back and forth they have found he has a bleed in his brain which is causing great developmental delay among other problems.
We are finally getting a more detailed MRI on the 7th in London so cross fingers they can get something moving to help my beautiful little cupcake.

So I have been making, baking and eating cupcakes, I do have piccy's to show and I promise I shall start posting more.

But here is a little taster of the goodies I have found on flickr already this month, I logged in on the 2nd and already there were 35 pages of uploads with the keyword of cupcake, we are taking over the world.

The top left shows an amazing Giant Cupcake baked by daniovertherainbow, go check her pictures for the step by step.

I love the little lego cupcake, lego is one of my fave toys.

The burp and bib set are adorable one day when I have a little girl I shall treat them to this.

The ATC is a total inspiration to me, its drawn with sharpies which I love and I thank stefanimak for allowing me to show it off.

Clair Louise a great new Etsy/Flickr Polymer Clay artist made these cute buttons, go check out her shop.

megan.chromik made these amazing ladybird cupcakes, I only hope that one day I can make such amazing cakes.

Click on the piccy's to get links if you want more details, take care all and cupcake love.

Kara
xxx

May Flickr Fave's

2009-05-14T11:12:00.003+01:00

I know we bypassed April and for that I am sorry, remember if you have something cupcake related you would like me to post about please do contact me, my email is kara@innocentcharms.co.uk.

Anyway my May Flickr Fave's and there are some lovely piccy's this month and through them I have met some talented people.

Top Left Corner - Cute Cupcake Onsie Handmade and gorgeous from Prasti, I am sure she does sell these but of this I am not sure, but if you go to her Flickr you will see some gorgeous works.

Top Right Corner - Now I am defo in the need for this, hopefully I shall be able to get one shortly, how cute is this cupcake scarf and what incredible talent, this come from Sleepyeve and she does have a blog so go check it out.

Bottom Left Corner - BustyBaker that's this ladies flickr name and I think its awesome, much like these amazing cupcakes she makes, she calls these Neapolitan cupcakes and I was licking the computer screen in the hope I could taste them, once again as I type this I am drooling at the mouth. She also sent me a lovely email telling me her great blog addy so make sure you pop in and say hi.

Bottom Right Corner - Now when I saw this pincushion from Bekehjan I was super jealous of her Mom, what a fab gift, all I have is one of those plastic pincushions so this would be a fab cupcake improvement for my sewing box, what a lovely gift to give your mom. Rebekah also has a lovely blog which has a link to her shop so be sure to check this linky too.

And I was so taken aback I had to add 2 more..

When I saw the HK inspired Cupcakes you know they had to be featured I mean HK and Cupcakes 2 of my all time favourite things. these were made my Coco Cake Cupcakes this Cupcake Queen really knows how to make amazing cakes, check out her profile for all her contact details.

And last and by no means least I found this Brownie Bite Cupcakes, wow Brownies and Cupcakes in one Heaven and look how pretty with fresh Strawberry's, oh I do love a strawberry, this picture comes from Kellbakes this lady is a ceramic artist super jealous but does baking as a hobby, I wished I baked like this. Go check out her mini apple pies they are too cute.

So a few links for you to check out, some inspiration I hope and maybe some new friends to meet through the wonderful world of Flickr and Blogs.

Update on Grayson front, I have just this second had a phone call with an appointment date of 27th May for us to go to London to see the Neuro Dept. so fingers crossed finally some answers.

Love to All.
Kara
xox

Sister's make the best Cupcake Collector's

2009-05-11T20:26:00.000+01:00

Shannon last month with Grayson

My little Sister is such a sweetie, she came to visit Saturday and arrived with this gorgeous mug for my obsession oops I mean collection. It is so cute and a fab size, it was a steal for £2.00 from Next and for any Cupcake collector I think you should run out and buy it now.

So thanks little sister. it really cheered me up.

xox

Cupcake Packages Tied up with String

2009-05-10T14:59:00.003+01:00

These are a few of my favourite things.

Sorry one of my fave films, so I just had to use it as a title and cupcake it up a little.

Isn't the package gorgeous, I am such a lucky girl, my BBF Laura and I do a Cupcake Art Journal back and forth to each other well when I opened up my parcel this week she had sent me some gorgeous cupcake goodies just cause, true friendship is when a friend does these things just cause and I count Laura as one of mine.

She sent me this great Cupcake Noughts and Crosses, Gray and I are going to love this, Cupcake Note cards (never too many), gorgeous Cupcake Notebook (already been put to use and finally but not certainly least is a gorgeous handmade by Laura Faux Cupcake with a cute ring I won inside, I can not wait to move and put this pride of place.

Also did you notice the gorgeous handmade cupcake designed paper, that is one of Laura's own designs, make sure you check out her shop, I am going to use this later on this month in a frame so watch this space.

Cupcake Love to All, I hope you have had some sweet goodness this weekend.

Kara
xox

Supermarket Trumps

2009-05-03T07:26:00.003+01:00

Well as most know, I live in Kent and unfortunately there is of yet no cupcakery's here :-(

So my cupcake fixes have to come from what bake, which time and skills are not always the right fix.

Friday night hubby, Grayson and I popped to Asda for a quick night time shop and there on the shelf were these cute looking cupcakes called 'My Cupcakes' I looked at Ashley and he said get them but after my many supermarket and high street cupcake tastes I was not so sure, after a minutes deliberation I thought you know what give a em a try they maybe worth it and do you know what they weren't half bad.

Unlike most cupcakes from supermarkets they were moist, they were very sweet and had lashings of topping, my only complaints were the berries inside were not very nice and the buttercream was a little too sweet but all in all they filled a fix.

So see if your Asda sells them, I mean they are not cupcakery level by no means but they were a bargain.

Cupcake Love

Kara

P.S. don't forget to check out last post on swap idea.

Crafting Cupcakes one step at a time

2009-04-28T09:20:00.005+01:00

Some of you may or may not know that I am a crafter, paper crafts, jewellery, polymer clay, ATC's I have taken my hand to many. When I got very poorly during pregnancy my crafting nearly halted altogether and since having Grayson I have still not had much opportunity, this has sadden me a little as I really do enjoy it.

So this month I joined a couple of swaps through Swap-bot to make myself craft, the other day I sat down for a whole 1 hour and a half and played and it was real fun. I mean it ain't much to say the least I am certainly no artist but it allowed me to relax and let off steam.

The first swap was a Cupcake ATC swap, one cupcake themed ATC for 1 partner, I have actually made 2, one for my partner and one for swap host. The ribbon ATC's are one of my old faves but I included some cupcake ribbon this time.

The second swap was a cupcake goodie bag, which you could decorate, I did with 3 cupcake related items in and if possible tailored to your partners likes. I actually included 5, Cupcake Napkins (a great accessory for any kitchen), cupcake ribbon, vintage cupcake cases, cupcake lip gloss and a yankee vanilla buttercream cupcake candle. I would be happy to receive this, how about you ?

On that subject I was wondering if there is any interest I was thinking of doing a similar swap, you pack 3 items in an envie for your partner, doesn't have to be decorated, they can be anything cupcake related from baking them to wearing them for a total budget of £6.00, so we can all afford, just something to cheer us up in these dyre financial times, post whether you are interested and hopefully if we get a few people I shall host the swap through my blog.

Anyway I have plenty more to post about, sorry for the delay Grayson is still no better so it has been a nightmare, he is back to hospital on Thursday to be reevaluated and more results, I am thinking they will admit him again. Cross fingers they can help him this time.

Cupcake Goodness to all.

Kara
xxx

Belated Happy Cupcake-tastic Easter

2009-04-15T08:53:00.000+01:00

Happy Easter to All, I hope you all had fun and got to enjoy some Cupcake magic as well as chocolate, well luckily I did.

It started off for me on Saturday getting my Easter Pressie from my MIL and SIL, they felt I needed super cheering up after a bad couple of weeks, so off they went to Debenham's and treated me to the Awesome Cupcake Teapot which is part of my Cookie Jar collection that I have wanted forever - woohoo Anne I finally have it.

Then on Easter Sunday my gorgeous little Gray Gray awoke me to some yummy M&S chocolate and finally the 'Pixie' Cupcake Momiji doll, man my son is awesome he knows just how to make his Mommy smile.

After all this Cupcake love coming my way I felt it only fair that I should make some Cupcakes to take to my cousin's at our annual Easter Gathering so I jumped to it and quickly whipped up a batch of Chocolate Cupcakes with Buttercream Frosting (tinted yellow for Easter of course) I must say I was a little disappointed, my usual soft cupcakes came out a little dry but everyone seemed to love them and they were all gone within an hour.

I put some sweeties on top for the kiddies and the others I quickly decorated for Easter, with Easter Egg and Hot Cross Bun designs, next year I am going to plan in advance and go all out.

So I hope you all had some Cupcake Easter Bank Holiday fun ?

Kara

xox

P.S. I JUST RECIEVED SOME LATE CUPCAKE EASTER GIFTS WHICH I SHALL SHOW LATER THIS WEEK

Cupcake Smiles were needed

2009-04-13T08:40:00.006+01:00

Bottom Right Piccy is Grayson getting high on his Oxygen - lol

Sorry I haven't been around but my life has been very difficult in the past 2 weeks, on Thursday 2nd April after a few poorly days for Grayson we headed off to clinic to get his weekly weight check (as unlike his Mommy he is underweight) whilst I was there long story short Gray went Blue, floppy and near enough stopped breathing an ambulance was called and he was put on Oxygen and rushed to hospital. After a week long stay for us in the hospital, 20 sets of Bloods, MRI, EEG, Oxygen, Med's and more doctors then you can imagine we are finally home, no one is quite sure what happened but he is doing a lot better, he is still not right and has to go back several more times and due to problems on his MRI all his test results have been sent to London to a specialist to be looked at, we are not sure what will happen, obviously we hope that everything is fine but I know if they do come back with some of the things they are saying I shall never love Grayson any less.

So anywho onto the cupcakes, well to cheer me up in the hospital my lovely Hubby one more brought this in for me, aren't they adorable, along with the lovely cupcake cookie jar range Debenhams have brought out some more Cupcake goodies, including this lovely Milk Jug and Sugar Bowl. I love the fact they are so different to the other stuff they do, they are more delicate.

Well there is other Easter Cupcake goodness to tell you about but I shall post that tomorrow, want to get back to my regular updates if I can.

Kara
xox

P.S don't you think hospitals should have Internet for us poor people that have to pretty much live there.

Uh Oh - No Space Left

2009-03-30T09:25:00.002+01:00

Uh Oh - No Space Left
Originally uploaded by innocentcharmer

Seriously, I do not have a large Kitchen but how could I walk past this and ignore it, I mean it was screaming to me and lets be honest its a smaller version of my other Cupcake Cookie Jar so it needed to be with its sister - lol, well that's my story and I am sticking to it.

Now I just have to sneak the matching Teapot in, ummm, families should stick together shouldn't they, well that's what I am going to tell the hubby.

Kara
xox

P.S. Its from a line of Cupcake Greatness at Debenhams - go check it out

Cupcakery's Rock

2009-03-26T20:17:00.005Z

This post is a little late coming, some might remember my post just over a month ago which showed my dear friend Anne of I Heart Cupcakes helped me with some Cupcakery addresses for my trip to London.

Well unfortunately due to the tube's all being shut on my trip we only managed to get to one Cucpcakery 'Buttercup' it was the cutest little shop, the staff were so warm and welcoming and they just smiled sweetly at me as I took pictures, I think they thought I was a little mad.

So here are my piccy's we bought Banana Splits and Red Velvet as these were my first Cupcakery Cupcakes in England I of course thought they were very yummy, but I shall compare them over the next year as the hubby and I take a tour of the country to find more Cupcakery's.

So people if you ever heard to London, Near Harrods then head to Buttercup its a must.

I have got something else to show you from the trip that I got from Harrods, its super cute and cupcake related but I have not taken a piccy so watch this space.

Kara

xox

Cupcakes - For Mommy's

2009-03-25T11:02:00.003Z

I have been a bad blogger but my little cupcake has been poorly again, but here I am.

For those of you who don't know on Sunday just gone it was Mother's Day in the UK and this was my first. To celebrate I baked Cupcakes, I mean nothing to adventurous just some plain Vanilla with tinted yellow frosting, I tried doing some piping but as you can see not very successful so then I just plain frosted some and put MOM across them for my Mommy.

My little boy gave me some great cards and gifts including the one on the left cause he knows I love cupcakes, the one on the right was made for me by my Mom and the Vanilla Cupcake Candle my sister gave me and it smells heavenly.

So I hope you all had a lovely Mother's day and got some cupcake treats.

Kara

xoxox

GIVEAWAY

2009-03-17T09:18:00.002Z

I know this is not Cupcake related but I had to show, my main blog Innocent Charms Chats is 2 years old, I am giving the above Necklace away free but for the first time ever noone seems to be visiting my blog and hence noone is entered to win, so pop by as you have a great chance.

Here is the link.

Hope you are all well.

Kara

xox

Its March and here are my flickr favourites

2009-03-12T09:53:00.001Z

Its March and here are my flickr favourites
Originally uploaded by innocentcharmer

Its that time again, here are my favourites from Flickr for March, some cute goodies, some talented work I am sure you will agree.

If you want to find out more click on the photo.

Kara
x

Should be Back tomorrow

2009-03-09T22:14:00.001Z

I have been bad at posting but both myself and Grayson are poorly, hopefully I shall be spreading the cupcake love tomorrow.

Love to all
Kara
x

Smiles from Cupcakes

2009-02-28T20:44:00.004Z

well of the blog variety, since starting my Cupcake Blog a month ago I have made some great Cupcake-tastic Blog girly's and when I got back from London (watch for post tomorrow) I found the awesome and sweet Kyla of Hello Cupcake had left me this Blog Award, how gorgeous is she, we have only been chatting a few weeks so it really made me feel great inside.

So thanks Kyla and lets pass that feeling on....

Laura of KatyDiddy

Christine of My Bella Colle

Nikki of WhiMSy Love

Anne of I Heart Cupcakes

and

Pippa of Pippa's Arty Life

So don't forget to pop by tomorrow to see my London Cupcake xxx

Amazon Sells More than just Books

2009-02-24T10:40:00.004Z

Great Trucker Hat (available in many colours) * Cupcake Building Toys * Silicone Cupcake Trivet *Cupcake Tea Set * Cupcake Doggy Cushion * Cupcake Light Plaque

Once upon a time Amazon sold just books and DVD's and although this was fab and helped immensely in fueling my cupcake love it now is 100 % better, cause now Amazon sells so much more, below I have shown just a small collection of my favourite Cupcake goodies to be found on the wonderful world of Amazon.
So if you do one thing today spoil yourself Amazon sells cupcakes goodies from £1 to £100.
Kara

xox

Wake up and Smell The Cupcakes

2009-02-22T20:03:00.003Z

We all love to eat cupcakes, look at cupcakes and we know how we love to smell them baking in the oven, well now we can have that smell simply, no baking required.

The great candle brand 'Yankee Candle' has created a great selection called Vanilla Cupcake and trust me after a couple hours of it burning in my house its scrummy, so take a look you can buy online or in many retailers and the candles last forever.

Hope all had a cupcake-tastic weekend.

Kara

xox

P.S. Even the car can smell cupcake-y.

Thanks for the Cupcakes

2009-02-21T17:50:00.004Z

Two of my amazing blog friends have some inspiring Cupcake Posts over the past 2 days and I had to show them.

Firstly the awesome and super talented Laura of Katydiddy designs made the coolest cupcakes ever, especially for movie night, Popcorn Cupcakes, go to her blog and take a look and let her know how great they are.

Then my cupcake friend (realise I don't know you real name sorry :-<) from 'I Heart Cupcakes' did me a super huge favour, as she lives in London where I am visiting next weekend, I asked her if she knew any good cupcake bakeries near Knightsbridge in London and she replied with a whole post on her blog on a Cupcake Bakery tour of Knightsbridge, the kindness is inspiring, thanks so much and I can't wait to visit them and post my own piccys in a couple of weeks.

So go check it out.

Love to all and hope your weekend is cupcake and fun filled.

Kara

Oh I could not stop myself

2009-02-20T18:41:00.003Z

Now some of you may not know this but I have 2 obsessions in life (well actually loads but these 2 matter now) SHOPPING and CUPCAKES so over the past couple shopping trips I have been able to help both of these, so I thought I would show my goodies.

Firstly I went into Debenhams (a British Department store) to just take a peek at there cupcake range and I saw this kitchen timer, well I need a timer, so I thought oh I will have to buy it as it was a need not a want - lol.

I also saw these cute little shorts and thought hey anything with cupcakes will look cute no matter the size of the tosh. The cards I have bought for ART, this is something I have done for years since having my first house with not a lot of funds, I buy gift cards I like the print on and then put them in frames etc, so these 2 cupcake cards could not be passed up, once there up in the kitchen I shall show you again.

Lastly I was so happy when I went to get some of my usual magazines and found Good Homes and Crafts Beautiful both featuring Cupcakes and even some cupcake decorative papers, so all in all my shopping week has rocked and total cost for the lot under £30, no complaints.

See you tomorrow - cupcake dreams.
Kara
x

A bit of this, A bit of That

2009-02-19T08:54:00.006Z

There is so much I want to show you today, but time is short so I will show a little and pop back later.

Firstly a few weeks ago I told you about a Cupcake ATC swap I was doing, well here is the piccy's firstly of mine sent out and then the great ATC I received. This was my first sort of 3D ATC, it was also me playing with my Sharpies on the sofa, I am no artist but I was quite pleased with the outcome.

Now on another note not cupcake I was tagged by the lovely Kyla (thanks you are so sweet) Its called the'Bag Tag' so me being a bag addict thinks this totally rocks.

So her are the Rules:

1. Post a picture of the bag/purse/handbag/pocketbook that you are carrying! Now, don't you even think about going back there to your closet and getting that cute little clutch that you carried before you had children or the last time you went out.

2. Tell us how much it cost! I know what you are thinking - a girl never discusses matters of money. Well, yes, but today we are gonna break that rule and tell! Yes, tell how much it cost. We won't judge! This is for entertainment purposes only. And if there is a story that goes along with this purse, tell it.

3. Tag some other girls. It will be fun to see what everybody else posts :-)

The Handbag I have shown I have been using for the past week, I change my bags alot, I must have in excess of 40 but some are over 10 years old. This one my hubby bought me for my birthday last year from Accesorize, I carry alot as you can see including...

My 2 Phones

Filofax

Cath Kidston Purse and Medicine/First Aid Bag

Handmade Zip purse with contents such as Tape Measure/Nail File etc

Camera

Nintendo DS

Lipsticks and Cath Kidston Lip Balm

Passport - As I went on a trip to Belgium and France

Strawberry Postcard to be framed (UK hate giving bags out now)

Now for tagging others

I Heart Cupcakes

Kathy

Pippa

I hope you all don't mind and can't wait to see your bags.

Kara

P.S. Here is the piccy of the valentine cupcakes my little sis got me aren't they cute.

I Heart Cupcakes has the best links

2009-02-18T11:02:00.003Z

As I popped by the wonderful 'I Heart Cupcakes' blog today I found this awesome link to a Indie Shop-Shana Logic that sells some super cute items but more important some super cute cupcake items, I just want actually rephrase NEED them all, take note hubby - lol.

So go check out the shop I am sure there is something you will want and whilst you are surfing check out my friends blog as she finds the best cupcake news.

Kara

xox

P.S I was naughty and bought more cupcake goodies yesterday, so be back soon with some pictures. x

A Great Valentines Day

2009-02-15T20:57:00.000Z

Well my hubby knows what I love well and my Valentines gifts were Cupcaked out.

It was a great set of pressies to open before I left for a family day out, Cupcakes are always a great start to any day.

He treated me with a set of 3 Tea towels, Oven Gloves and a fab Apron, they all have the cutest bold cupcake design and although they are very useful they are likely to be only used for decorative use only (much to the annoyance of hubby).

I hope all had a lovely romantic valentines, whatever you did, I spent mine with my siblings and Dad but the hubby and I had a nice cuddle in the evening.

Kara
xox

P.S. Thanks my dear Sister for my Valentine Cupcakes (piccy to be shown later)

February Cupcake Flickr Faves

2009-02-11T11:42:00.003Z

I have decided to make this a regular monthly post, many of you may know that I totally love Flickr, it brings great inspiration and partly I think cause I am just so nosey.

So every month I shall find my favourite Cupcake pictures uploaded in that month and show them here. Some will be items you can buy, some will just be for inspiration.

If you have a cupcake Flickr pic you want me to share just drop me a line.

For links to pictures just click on photo to take you to flickr.

Kara

xoxox

Gifts and around my home

2009-02-09T19:38:00.005Z

As I am sure you are all aware I have a love for cupcakes especially in my home decor in particular my Kitchen, well my gorgeous Hubby arrived home today with a gorgeous gift for me, take a look....

That's it ladies a lovely glass Cupcake worktop saver, its yummy and the cupcakes are too cute, another great find by Cupcake Hubby for my Kitchen, he found it in Morrisons Supermarket and says there are other items too, mmm know where I maybe going next week lol.

While I was taking a piccy to share with you cupcakes queens, I thought I would take some pictures of other cupcakes cuteness from my Kitchen. One day I will go round my home and take pictures of all the cupcake treats in my home, but for now he is a taste.

Kara

xox

2009-02-08T12:10:00.005Z

Apologies all, there I was promising daily Cupcake Goodness and I disappear for nearly 2 weeks, this was not intentional but between my little cupcake getting poorly and I contracted a 4 day stint of food poisoning it has been hell here, but I am feeling better, Grayson is halfway there so hopefully I can finally get into a rhythm.

Just a quick post today, I came across this when a lady entered my OWOH heart giveaway at Innocent Charms Chats and I thought OMG this is so perfect.

Lets find out what type of Cupcake we all are

What kind of cupcake are you?

My Result: Cute Cupcake

KARA

Quiz School

Take this quiz & get your result

What kind of cupcake are you? » Create Create Quizzes

Just click on my result to take the quiz.

Its a very simple quiz of 6 questions, I love doing things like this, I am not sure if everyone would agree with my result but I am super nice.
This great quiz was created by Lots of Sprinkles, I am off to check out her blog now and say thanks, don't forget to let me know your results, I really want to know.

Love to all and thanks for visiting.
Kara
xx

Iridescent cupcakes - Art by Lefleurpixie

2009-01-27T09:18:00.002Z

Iridescent cupcakes
Originally uploaded by lefleurpixie

A gorgeous piece of Art one of my lovely Flickr Buddies upload this week, I was so impressed at the gorgeousness of it I thought I must share as I am sure there is a cupcake follower that needs this (I know I do I just have spent all my pocket money :-<).
Here is a link to her blog where she has also posted on this gorgeous piece of Art, go check it out.

Cupcake Love
Kara
x

Tattoo's Anyone

2009-01-24T19:05:00.003Z

Images from Flickr

Well I have one little tattoo and in April I was due to have my 2nd and then the week before I found out I was pregnant with my gorgeous little cupcake Grayson.

So today I thought to myself its about time I booked myself in for that tattoo again, but I could not decide what to get and then it hit me a cupcake, I love cupcakes and I have just had my first cupcake so very fitting I thought.

So today I hit the web and checked out Flickr and Google Images and found some cute inspiration, so now I have to design my own tattoo and find a good tattoo artist and then I am there, so girls watch this space for a piccy of my tattoo and if you have any tattoo's you would like to share just post a link.

Cupcake Love.
Kara
xox

Martha Stewart Rocks Cupcakes

2009-01-22T17:15:00.004Z

Martha Stewart is just so awesome, she does the greatest craft projects/supplies and her recipes are so yummy,well this month she has exceeded everything and dedicated her "Living" Magazine to Cupcakes, how perfect.

I have enclosed a couple of piccy's from her website to show off the gorgeousness, it is easy to pick up the magazine in the USA but I am finding it hard to find the Mag for sale in the UK, supposedly it maybe available at Border's stores unfortunately for me there are none close, but I have asked my blogger babes to see if one can send me a copy from the US.
So girls go out and show your support to Martha's Cupcake Special, there are some fab recipes and designs to try out.

photos courtsey of marthastewart.com

Love to all.

Kara

xox

One for me, One for Grayson

2009-01-20T18:58:00.002Z

Aren't they cute, I could not believe it when I stumbled on this lovely lady Sarah's cupcake blog and found her to be selling these gorgeous Tee designs and matching onesies. I decided that's it when I get paid this week Grayson and I are going to be rockin cupcakes, there are so many designs and styles you must take a look, plus she has added extras of mugs, mouse mats and a whole host of other goodies, make sure you visit her store and blog.

Watch this space cause when Gray and I have ours I shall be posting a yummy picture.

Love to you all.

Kara

xox

Crazy for Cupcakes and ATC's

2009-01-18T08:10:00.004Z

then you have come to the right place, as that is the subject of today's post.

For a while now I have been a member of Swapbot, a fantastic site where people set up swaps and as long as your a member and you fit the criteria you can join in, over the years I have completed a large number of swaps and have met some amazing friends from all over the world, not long after I started I found the world of ATC's or Artist Trading Cards and fell in love, what is an ATC I hear some of you cry

Tiny works of original art that are traded among artists traded among artists. Traders often keep their collection of ATCs in binders filled with clear vinyl pages, nine pockets per page. Each card measures approximately 2-1/2" x 3-1/2" and can consist of any medium.

Well today after many months of not participating on swaps (due to the pregnancy) I returned to swapbot and thought I would have a looksie and see what easy non time consuming ATC swaps were about and imagine my delight when I saw one entitled "Crazy for Cupcakes ATC", I obviously joined straight away and then thought hey must share this with my readers as it may kick start more of you into the wonderful world of ATC's, so take a look this is a great simple 1 card ATC swap and swapbot is totally free, so whats the harm.

All the piccy's shown are Cupcake ATC's I have done in the past, see I am no major artist so anyone can make an ATC.

Cupcake Love.

Kara

xxoxx

I did it....

2009-01-16T15:55:00.000Z

I finally baked my own cupcakes, this is terrible for a cupcake lover to admit I am sure, after all these years of being so in love with Cupcakes I had been frightened to try baking some, but I took the bull by the horn and did it.

My hubby gave me this great book for Christmas " Cupcakes" by Next and I looked through and chose the recipe Neapolitan Cakes it was a very simple recipe and only took about an hour to fully make, they actually do look a little like Neapolitan Ice Cream, my decoration of the buttercream left a little to be desired but I am sure that will improve with practice. All the family had a try and said they were scrummy yummy and if I don't say so myself I thought they were quite good.

If anyone wants a copy of the recipe just leave a message with your email and I will be happy to forward on.

Hope all are well and cupcake - tastic, Happy Birthday to my little Bro Kiery while I am posting he lives up in London so we are not getting to spend his birthday together but his lovely flat mate Jane bought him some cupcakes from Selfridges for his birthday so he is a very lucky boy.

Kara
xoxox

Welcoming my little Cupcake

2009-01-12T14:08:00.000Z

Please welcome my little Cupcake to the world.

Grayson Quinn Max Spencer was born on Sunday 4th Jan 2009 at 4.22pm, weighing 7 lbs 1/2 ounce.

He is as gorgeous, scrummy and yummy as any cupcake I have ever seen.

See I have a good reason for not keeping up with my daily blog post as we have been in hospital due to complications see this post on my other blog for more details, but I am home again now and will be back to daily posts as promised.

Hope you have all had an exciting start to the year.

Love Kara and Grayson
xoxoxox

Top 5 - Handmade & Shop Bought

2009-01-01T09:26:00.010Z

Well I thought for our first real post I should show some cupcake goodies we can all treat ourselves to.

So I searched the net and although there are so many great buys out there I decided to pick the my top 5 handmade Etsy goodies and my top 5 shop bought items.

For those of you that haven't heard of Etsy, its a great US site that allows handmade crafters from all over the world (including myself) to have somewhere safe to sell our wares on. Please go take a look not only at the 5 items I have picked but the thousands of amazing items available.

1. My first item is by a dear talented friend of mine Miss Laura of KatyDiddy Designs, I am fortunate enough to have many of Laura's items across my home and they are all so beautiful, Laura like myself has a huge love for all Cupcake and that shows in her work, the above picture is one of her Note Card designs, she has many more Cupcake and other items so go take a look.

2. This Handmade Trinket box is from a lady called Wendy of FruitflyPie, I have never had the pleasure of chatting with Wendy, but when I saw this on Etsy last week, I decided I have to have one, so in the next few weeks I shall be treating myself. I can not believe Wendy makes these all herself as they are just truly gorgeous. Go take a look at her great wares, she does some amazing colours and designs.

3. Jenny of JennysBakeShop is one of my favourite Etsy Artists, she paints the most gorgeous pieces and I have a custom piece of Jenny's Artwork in my Kitchen and feel very fortunate to have it. I would love to fill my whole wall with my Art and this year I shall be treating myself to some more, the above cupcake piece is a fave of mine as it incorporates not only Cupcakes but polka dots and pink 2 of my other fave things.

4. Now who doesn't need a cupcake apron, well me for 1 does and that's how I came across this gorgeous work of art, I was supposed to get a cupcake apron for Xmas but unfortunately it did not appear, so since boxing day I have been trawling the web and I came across a whole gorgeous collection of handmade ones by Etsy seller Boojiboo, I have as of yet not decided which one to choose, there are so many gorgeous designs, go take a look.

5. Last but no means least on the Handmade top 5, this gorgeous little plaque, I mean how cute is this, I am going to have to have this too (do you see an expensive pattern forming - don't tell my hubby). I mean it would look great in my Cupcake/Diner Kitchen. Its made by Etsy Artist Jillianhaupt and do you know what more she does a larger version which she personalises, I mean yippee. There are some other gorgeous goodies in her store too.

Well there is my top 5 handmade and if you are anything like me you are probably thinking were can I find pocket money to fill my life with these treasures.

Now for the top5 shop bought goodies for this post, I know you know like myself there are so many out there to show but I have picked a random 5 to share today and will continue over the next few months to keep showing the things I find so don't worry, eventually there will be something if not all that you want.

1. Criminal Damage Cupcake Dress - I am so getting this in the summer, cupcakes on clothes rock, they also do a hooded jacket to match.
2. Cupcake Worktop Saver - Debenhams an English Dept. Store has become rocking for getting cupcake kitchen goodies and this worktop saver is no exception, now I am sure I have a Debenhams Voucher somewhere - lol.
3. Pixie is one of the newest Momiji Dolls and look at her holding her little cupcake, Momiji Dolls have turned into another one of my recent collections but I do not have this one as of yet, can be found on many site on the WWW.
4. Its all about you Cupcake - Such a lovely art print, I love the colour combo's, I keep going to buy this but can't decide where I am going to put in my house, soon as I do I am coming to get you.
5. Wilton Giant Cupcake Pan - OMG seriously this is the coolest thing ever, I am sure my friend Laura has this, the link takes you to Amazon USA but I know I saw this on a UK site last week but can now not find, this will be my next purchase.

Well I am sure you have had enough of this mammoth post, it turned out to be a bit longer than I thought but see that's what cupcakes do to me. If you have any suggestions on what you would like to see, or would like me to find on the net just let me know.

Kara
xox

Happy New Year from Today's Cupcake is...

2009-01-01T07:57:00.001Z

Happy New Year from Today's Cupcake is...
Originally uploaded by innocentcharmer

A New Year, A New Blog, Watch this space.
Kara
x

A Cupcake a Day

2008-12-31T17:51:00.003Z

ATC - I created this year.

Welcome All,

Whether you are a new visitor or have known me through the WWW before, I thank you in advance for visiting my new little project on the Web.

For those of you who don't know me, here is a short Bio

My name is Kara, I am 28, live in the UK, Married with a Baby Boy due any day now, I am a boring Accounts Manager by day but my real love is my Crafting, in particular I run a handmade one of a kind Jewellery business called Innocent Charms.Many moons ago now I become obsessed with anything 50's diner, my kitchens since my first house 10 years ago have always been decorated in this style and have grown over the years, then 4 years ago or so this moved on to anything Cupcake too, they are quite linked in kitchen design and this hit home with me, my obsession with anything Cupcake and I don't just mean to eat was formed, over the past few years it has grown and grown and since crafting has only probably got worse.

I now use Cupcakes in my jewellery designs, Polymer Clay and Paper crafts, my home has cupcakes springing up everywhere as has my clothes and pretty much everything in my life. To this end I was finding it hard not keeping these delights off my blog Innocent Charms Chats, I found I was not the only Cupcake Queenie in the world and thought well why keep my wares and finds off the blog sites, just start up a whole new one solely dedicated to the world of Greatness that is Cupcakes, so Today's Cupcake is... was formed.

So here on my first blog post, if you are not bored already I would like to just say I plan to post a daily post with some relation to cupcakes, be it a new item for the home, a new item I have seen on the WWW, a friends handmade creation or a recipe there will be something all so special and cupcake-y.

If you have something you would like me to share feel free to contact me, how else can we spread the word to the world.

Thanks for taking the time to read my first post and I only hope you will spread the word and pop by when you need a sweet refresh.

Kara
Cupcake Queen
xoxox