That Sweet Revision

NO DESIGNER JUMPS FOR JOY upon being asked to redo or re-design their own work. But when Cupcake Boutique's wonderfully design-conscious proprietress asked me to come up with new versions of the logo I had developed for the brand, my reaction was that of enthusiasm.

Klarisse first requested for a Valentine's Day version of the logo in January, with the border re-created to form the shape of a heart. It was the sweetest, prettiest thing, and from there followed a spider-spun version for Halloween and the snow globe for Christmas.

Here, a little more about the girl for whom the designs had been made. Klarisse introduces herself, her brand and the vision that led to Cupcake Boutique.

What is your name and what do you do?

My name is Klarisse Joseph and I manage my baking business called Cupcake Boutique. I come up with all the products we offer, source ingredients directly from suppliers, always on the look out for the new items out in the market.

When did you discover your passion for pastry?

I've always had a sweet tooth ever since I was a kid. I'm definite that i got it from my mom, but mine is just more intense. When i was in elementary and high school, I would take short baking courses for the weekend or sometimes for a few weeks during summer vacation. I found being inside the kitchen so exciting! After college in Manila, I flew to Chicago to take my formal training in pastry arts. I took to programs, and did an internship within 2 years. Upon the completion of my pastry education, I went back home to start baking for a living.

What was your vision for Cupcake Boutique when you first launched?

I wanted Cupcake Boutique to be the number one destination for the finest cupcakes in Manila. I wanted to veer away from the cute and kiddie cupcake themes they're often associated with. I wanted to use fine quality ingredients, and create simple yet elegant cupcakes. I wanted people to perceive the cupcake as edible jewelry. If you're using the best ingredients, you don't really have to do much.

What is the importance of imagery to your brand?

Marketing is very important, and the perception people have of the brand has a massive effect on their willingness to purchase a cupcake priced at a premium. Positioning Cupcake Boutique as a premium quality cupcake brand assures customers that they are made of the best ingredients, everything is made from scratch.

Of your cupcake flavors, do you have a personal favorite?
Whipped caramel. I make the salted caramel from scratch, place it in the cooler to thicken and cool. Then I whip it to get that creamy, fluffy caramel texture. I fill the cake with the caramel then frost with buttercream.

Logo and seasonal logo designs for Cupcake Boutique. www.facebook.com/cupcakesph