Meeting the Makers: Laura of Cupcakes for Clara

Who on earth would create a brand and business based on a grumpy imaginary little girl? A creative and talented illustrator named Laura Clempson! Cupcakes for Clara may be a newish business but the minute you see the brand and the product you know without a doubt it is going to be something big. Laura has done an incredible job developing the character behind her brand. From the language she uses, to the illustrations themselves, to the product photography, Cupcakes for Clara is its own little world. One that invites you in for tea and serves up a side of quirky humor for good measure.

When Laura entered our New Biz for the New Year giveaway her entry was so sweet and fun I knew it needed to be shared again-who knew multiple personalities made goal setting a lot more fun!

I caught up with Laura (or should I say Clara?) to ask about where she plans to take her business this year:

Hi Laura! Thank you so much for entering our NBNY giveaway-it was such a close call and your entry made a great impression on us. Even though you didn’t win one of our grand prizes we know greatness is in store for you in 2012. What are your plans for the coming year and where do you hope to take Cupcakes for Clara in the next 12 months?

I am so excited about 2012 and all that could be in store for Cupcakes for Clara. Right now I’m working on a range of products for little boys (even though boys are a bit yucky!), based around a new character that I have fallen completely in love with. He’s called Colin and is Clara & Macy’s next door neighbour. Suddenly I feel as though a whole new world has opened up to me – full of snails, paper planes, forts and tweed clothes.

cupcakes for clara, meeting the makers, oh my handmade

But Clara is still a top priority, and I’m planning a new range of products featuring her too. Dolls, fabric, illustrated prints, and stationery are all on the to do list. Ideally Clara & Macy will also jump onto the pages of their very own picture books, and I plan on seriously pursuing that in 2012. I’d like to get an agent and a publishing deal by the end of the year. My head is full of exciting plans, although trying to decide what to prioritise is so tricky!

Laura wasn’t technically one of our winning entries but all the judges were convinced her brand already had everything going for it. One of the reasons for sharing a shortlisted entry each month was to give the business and you, our readers, the chance to share your knowledge and experience. I invite you to check out Cupcakes for Clara and leave your comments below about ways that Laura can improve her brand. Have thoughts on product ideas, events, upgrades, social media tips? Let us know! We can help this little grumpy girl take on the world-she’s ready for it!