cupcakeMAG LOVES Tori Spelling

Obviously we adore Tori Spelling for so many reasons - not just her FABulous style but also her Superhero ways. Tori is one inspiring cupcake for ladies everywhere as she shows us you can do it all! Even with everything she has going on - we were beyond thrilled to be able to get a chat in with the one & only, T! 

{1} Last time we spoke you had a lot going on and can see not much has changed! You & Dean were working on your new Oxygen show as well as your book. Now, you have InvenTORI! What can you tell us about the latest projects keeping you busy?

Our store InvenTORI just opened in Sherman Oaks! Very excited. Its a home/lifestyle store. Antique personal furniture and products for women, men, children, bath, pets, garden, and kitchen that our family personally loves and uses. I am finishing my first party planning book called CelebraTORI which will be out Oct. 25th and our new Oxygen show Tori&Dean:sTORIbook Weddings starts airing April 6th. I'm also very excited for my new online magazine that will launch in April called Inspired Living by Tori Spelling. And, my new jewelry line MAVEN launches this spring at dept stores and is currently at Intermix. And... Just kidding. That's all! Ha ha. (For now)

{2} What inspired you to open InvenTORI? Was this something you had wanted to do for quite sometime? 

I've collected antiques for years. My obsession outgrew our living space and that's when I decided I wanted to share my passion with others and literally share my inventor(i).

{3} You are also working on your latest book. Can you tell us about that?

I'm having the most amazing love affair with my latest book! Its my first party planning book called CelebraTORI. It takes the readers thru all the steps necessary to throw an amazing party whether its a intimate dinner party for 4 or a lavish event for 100. And tips to do it on a budget. Its filled with amazing photos, How To's, recipes, and my anecdotal stories that my readers have grown to know me for. Plus I take readers thru 4 complete parties. Its been an amazing experience! I get to craft, cook, bake, create, design and style. Can't wait for it to come out!

{4} Seriously, you are the queen of multi-tasking. It is beyond amazing everything you have accomplish and continue to do. We have to ask how do you do it all and actually sleep? Give us your supermom tips! 

Sleeping is honestly not one of my best multi tasking skills. Its pretty hard to put my mind to sleep. I'm not great at taking time for myself. I give everything to my kids/husband/and work and then the me of it all sometimes takes a back seat. My goal is to start getting more quiet time for me at night when everyone goes to bed. Next challenge... Getting everyone to go to bed!

{5} We know you love to play party planner and are the hostess with the mostess! What are some of your personal party tips you can share for having the perfect party?

While I'll give ALL my tips in my new book I will share a couple. One - don't over extend yourself. Its great to create and dream big but be realistic about what you can actually pull off within your time frame and budget. Stick to recipes you've done before and ones that you know work. And, secondly, enjoy your own party. This is one I'm currently working on! I end up giving so much that by the time my party starts I'm too exhausted to actually have fun. So, enjoy your hard work! 

{6} We also know you love DIY projects, crafts, and all the handmade fun. What is one of your favorites you have shared with Liam and Stella?

We love crafting in our house! Whatever we can make together is always the best because it keeps us interacting as a family. The kids are really into making their own playdough right now. We make it from scratch and its all natural. We add different flavors and colors to it and we have theme playdough parties. We did ice cream parlor the other day and in corner cut /tied off ziploc bags swirled the "ice cream" playdough into cones and cups and added sprinkles and pretended to serve customers. They loved it! Stella even serves in a mini apron!

{7} We have watched you on Home Sweet Hollywood decorate your houses with perfection. Is Interior Design another love of yours? What tips can you share when it comes to decorating a home, Tori style? 

I love interior design. Its another huge passion of mine. I pick a couple main pieces that I LOVE and that I think make my room and then I decorate the room around them. I like my style and rooms to remain timeless. Rooms with colors and patterns I won't tire of in 5 years. And, family "coziness" is a huge factor into my design. I want it to look chic and stylish but all the work is pointless if at the end of the day my family and I can't be cozy in the room. So, if its Liam and Stella approved then I've done my job! And, let the little knick knacks come with time. I love doing a room and then whenever I'm at flea markets or estate sales finding little collectibles that'll look great in that room. This takes time but you end up with little cherished objects that you've collected from all over. 

{8} We always ask, what is up next for you - you always out do yourself and I just can't imagine what else you could add to your plate but, do you have anything else you are currently or planning to work on? 

Oops I might have answered that question in the first question. But, to add to that... We are currently filming season 6 of Tori&Dean:Home Sweet Hollywood and fans can see The McDermotts back in their living rooms this summer. I also will soon be starting my 4th memoir which will be out in 2012. 

Make sure you tune in to sToribook Weddings next month and 

stay-up-to-date on all things TORI! 

{Facebook}

{Twitter}

{InvenTORI}
{Tori & Dean}

{Oxygen}

See why we LOVE her? Oh, and besides the fact that she thinks "Cupcake ROCKS!"

Tori Spelling Presents Tallulah!

Editor of cupcakeMAG sits down with Tori Spelling to talk about her first children's book, what exactly inspired.....Presenting Tallulah, how much she loves being Aunt T & all about those animals! 

You first children's book, Presenting Tallulah is getting ready to hit shelves. How excited are you? 

I'm so excited for my 1st children's book "Presenting...Tallulah". I love storytelling and I love being an author but this one will be my greatest achievement because its for my kids. I get to read it to them. Bedtime stories are such a special moment we share together. 

As soon as we received the book back in July I immediately read it to my girls and I have to say, we have read it so much, I might be able to rehearse it! My 3 year old actually has it on her shelf because she said it is just "to pretty for the bookshelf" -- we adore it. The story line is so true in todays society for so many children. Was Tallulah influenced by your childhood? 

The character Tallulah is inspired by me as a child but not completely based on me. I feel like everyone at some point can relate to wanting to be accepted for who they are not what others percieve them to be or want them to be. Its a good lesson about remaining true to yourself! And thank your little lady for loving it!

What inspired the name.....Tallulah? 

I wanted a "T" name to represent me and I liked Tallulah because its unique. Fit into the story that we are all unique in our own way. And, Max is inspired by my best friend since childhood Mehran.

Vanessa Brantley Newton did an excellent job on the illustrations. We just loved them. Were you the decision maker for Tallulah's adorable wardrobe? 

Vanessa is an amazing illustrator! She was a great partner. I did tell her I wanted Tallulah to be fashion forward. In fact the dress she wears on the cover I've recreated as a Tallulah Dress for my children's clothing line Little Maven.

We want more of Tallulah! The character is so sweet, the puppy is precious and the story is just great -- maybe Tallulah could be a series :) Do you plan on doing another children's book? 

Mimi is based on my beloved pug Mimi La Rue! Thanks! I LOVED doing Tallulah and have many ideas for more Tallulah stories and adventures so I'd love to do a second book. Even an animated series!

a look inside Presenting Tallulah on sale, September 21st 

Congrats on being an Aunt! I know  you are beyond thrilled for your Guncles. Your book will be such a treasure for you to read to your niece! What does Stella and Liam think about the new addition to the family? 

I'm so in love w/ The Guncles baby Simone! She's an amazing little girl! We are all so blessed that she came into our lives. I love being an Aunt and Godmother. And, The Guncles are unbelievable parents! But I knew they would be. Liam and Stella love Simone. Stella feeds her and Liam strokes her head and calls her "Simona". They are good cousins!

And I have to ask -- how is your backyard farm? I am sorry to hear about your poor chicken. How are the rest of the animals? 

We LOVE our animals and our small makeshift farm! Our chickens are great. Our chicken Coco is a real character. She loves to hang out and bosses the dogs around! The Guinea pigs love watermelon and are buddies with the chickens. The bunnies are sweet and like to cuddle. The goat is so funny. She thinks she's a dog and even wags her little tail. Our snake and bearded dragon love attention and Princess the bearded dragon likes to watch tv in bed with us. Liam is amazing with the animals. He's like a mini Dr. Doolittle. They all flock to him and he carries them all everywhere!

9.) You always keep so busy! Is there anything else you have coming up? You really have an amazing talent for writing! Your books are truly page turners that you don't just read once. You have many readers hoping for another book following unCharted Territori and hopefully a cook book! 


Well, since I love planning parties I would love to do a party planning book. Hopefully that'll be the next book I do. And, I'm hopeful there will be a follow up memoir to Uncharted TerriTORI. I love telling my stories and sharing them with everyone. I also hope to do more interior designing and to develop a women's clothing line would be amazing. But love designing my kids line, Little Maven and my jewelry on HSN.

all things {Tori} 

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Make sure you go here now and pre-order your copy of Presenting Tallulah! 

we heart........

Just when you thought stori time was over,

the beloved starlet has so much more to say....

"My life has changed dramatically in the past several years. I married Dean; we moved several times; we had two children; we created a show that has gone into its fifth season on the air. I have a family. I have a home. I have work. It's all I ever wished for. But trying to be a perfect wife, mother, and mini-mogul has its challenges, especially if, like me, you want to be perfect at all of them at the same time."

- from uncharted terriTORI

Tori Spelling is a name we all know; a person we are fascinated by; a smart momma we look up to; a fashionista that inspires. But Tori Spelling isn't just a name - it's a successful biz. From Little Maven to HSN to best-selling-page-turning books, and a reality show you become glued too - the name TORI is everywhere and we aren't complaining.

From tv, movies, 90210 (yes, we still watch the old re-runs) to the weeklies - fans are loyal to Tori. So whats the fascination with T? Maybe it's her style, her hair, how funny she is --- whatever it may be - she continues to keep us intrigued in uncharted terriTORI, which we can promise will be another title to add to the bestselling list.

From jury duty to blowing up an inflatable pool from a drugstore - uncharted terriTori shows us once again that Tori Spelling is down-to-earth and just like the rest of us. And lets not forget the great advice she gives along the way....."Attention, men of the world: having children, caring for children, loving children affects the sex drives of all women. Your hot little girlfriend will change when she's a mother. You will be frustrated and feel rejected. She will be annoyed and feel misunderstood. The two of you will enter and indefinite period wherein the number of times per week you want to have sex is widely disparate. You will work on it. You will both have to compromise. This is scientific, evolutionary reality. Don't ask me for the studies to support it. Just trust me. The sooner you accept this, the better." We can't help but agree with how right she really is.

When we found out there was going to be a release for her third book we were beyond thrilled and couldn't wait to read it - as always Tori didn't let us down and we are ready for the 4th, in hopes there will be one. As chaotic as her life is we were able to catch up with her to find out just what she has been up too!

Tori: A day in our lives is chaotic. With 2 kids three and under multiple rescue dogs, chickens, and a new baby goat. I am fortunate that most of my businesses I can run from home except when I am out filming. In the morning we usually watch a little cartoons in our bed w/ kids then head down and make them breakfast. After breakfast they either go to school (3 days a week half days for Liam and Mommy and me for Stella 2 days a week) or we go for an outing. They love going to the bookstore, park, or indoor playgrounds. They also love swimming and take lessons 2 times a week. They still have 1 nap a day and do that right after lunch. In late afternoon we play in the backyard on the trampoline or often tend to our organic garden. The kids love picking their own vegetables. They have dinner and baths in early pm and then watch a little tv before bed. After they are in bed Dean and I get some alone time and then its nighty night. Infused in this day I have business meetings, calls, and decisions to tend to. Its a hectic day but I'm fortunate enough that I get to spend at home time with my kids and be a career woman.

Tori: With Liam and Stella I never leave house without my diaper bag packed with Sippy Cups (we went to Target recently and they picked out their own. Liam's fave one is Buzz Lightyear and Stella's has pink flowers all over it), snacks, baby wipes, diapers and pull ups, diaper creme, sunscreen, a change of clothes for them, crayons, and coloring books.

Tori: I said I wouldn't be a push over. But as a working mom I feel guilty on days that I can't be with the kids all day. So I do find myself giving in to them more than I should. And, I do let them watch a little more tv then I said I would.

Tori also adds - I never thought I'd be able to add best selling author to my list of accomplishments. Its been an amazing ride so far! I love sharing my stories and I'm so happy my fans respond to them. Now, having a children's book coming out is the icing on the cake. First and foremost I am a mom so to be able to write a book that I can read to my kids at bedtime is a proud proud moment for me! I can't wait till "Presenting... Tallulah" comes out and I can read it to Liam and Stella and say "Mama wrote that!"

Tori: Currently Dean and I are working on a new show for Oxygen called "Tori&Dean: Weddings" it blends my love of party planning and love! We plan couples dream weddings! So fun and emotionally rewarding to help people out. And I again get to work with my hubby! We are also developing a couple Movie of the Weeks to star in together. And yes, one day we would love to add a 3rd baby to our family!

1. I want to have a farm with chickens, goats, sheep, horses, and bunnies!

2. I would love to open an animal sanctuary for unwanted and sick animals.

3. I have a goat named Donna Martin

4. I've seen every horror movie ever made.

5. I'm terrified of roller coasters and tarantulas

6. I hate raisins

7. My favorite cooking ingredient is truffle oil

8. I'd love to learn to speak french

9. I'd love to do a cookbook or party planning book!

10. I'm obsessed with 80's music

As we hope for a future book or maybe a talk show (hint,hint Tori!) -- whatever comes our way we can never have too much Tori in our lives. Until then, you MUST go out and get uncharted terriTORI (which we read in 4 hours, it was that good!) as it hit shelves June 15th or buy it online here. Can't wait? Lucky for you Tori has signed three copies of her latest book just for our readers and we are giving you the chance to win one.

To enter to win a signed copy of uncharted terriTORI you must tell us why your Tori's biggest fan! You also must be a follower of cupcakeMAG & Sprinkles. This comment is mandatory. Open to US residents only.

For extra entries, please leave a separate comment for each entry letting us know. The more you comment the better chance you have to WIN!

1. Follow cupcakeMAG on Twitter

2. Follow Tori on Twitter

3. Make sure you "LIKE" us on our NEW Facebook page.

4. Subscribe to our updates (top right corner above) - just sign up with your email!

5. VOTE for us on Top Mommy Blogs here -- just select "click to vote" -- you don't have to register - just a simple click.

6. Tweet about this giveaway and include @cupcakemag -- you must tweet, not just follow.

7. Write a blog post about this giveaway on your blog and send us the link.

The winner will be randomly selected Friday June 25th after 11pm.

In the mean time stay-in-touch with Tori on Twitter (she thanks her tweeps in the book too!) because she loves her followers just as much as we adore her!

Oh So Chic Holiday Gift Guide from Decorative Things

Just a few months ago we were introduced to Decorative Things - a cute little online shop that "turns ordinary things into decorative things." Founded 21 years ago they started ordinary phone books decorative with fabric slipcovers and now they have tons of unique items for everyone on your holiday list. Here are a few things we just can't live without - whether you’re shopping for someone else or yourself - treat yourself to Decorative Things.

Keep Calm and Carry On Poster

There has been quite some buzz surrounding the simple and chic poster which looks great framed in an office or your own home. Even celebs like Tori Spelling & Dean McDermott can't be without it. It comes in five different colors and is only $25 - a perfect unique gift.

Cutting Boards with Personality

If you missed their debut on NBC's "Ask Melissa" - you’re missing out on one the "Hottest Gifts for the Holidays." The ultimate odor and stain resistant hygienic work surface for cutting preparing and serving food. This cutting board ($30) is different though - instead of shoving it away in a drawer you are going to want to show it off on your counter. We LOVE the toughened non-skid glass made of new technology with non-slip rubber feet and it comes with a lifetime guarantee against breakage!

Stylish Resin Watch to Channel Your Coco

Coco Chanel was one of the first to show off vintage Bakelite jewelry – and this is just like a vintage Bakelite bracelet except it is a chic watch ($65). It is perfect for every woman on the go – like Coco once said “Luxury must be comfortable. Otherwise, it is not luxury.” Just like Chanel these resin watches are chic and modern – a perfect match.

Good Luck Horn Necklace from Kenneth Jay Lane

The horn necklace ($60) is just one of the chic designer accessory’s we adore. It is a must in every fashionistas wardrobe and is a signature fashion statement. Join the Kenneth Jay Lane Jewelry club which includes all of our loved fashion icons like Jackie Kennedy, Audrey Hepburn, Elizabeth Taylor, Madonna and Britney Spears. Sarah Jessica Parker, and her besties also wear them often on “Sex in the City” and out on the town.

Eyeglass Trays in Decorative Patterns

This is a perfect gift for anyone who treasures their glasses. While you may have seen them on House Beautiful “THE BEST” list as well as Oprah’s O List you need to make sure they are on your list this holiday season. For only $20, the beautiful laminated trays are a perfect touch to any desk or night stand and make eyeglasses easy to spot.

But, just remember, whatever you decide to put on your list, for yourself, or someone else, make sure you click on over to Decorative Things – there is plenty more waiting for you.

Chic Babes: Sweet Little Sprinklings

Over the past few weeks we have tried & tested many different hair accessories in our little one’s locks. After being sick of losing barrettes and hair pulling clips we ventured out to find the perfect match.

Bugalug is the perfect STAY-PUT accessories for the Urban Girl. Unlike other STAY-PUT hair accessories these stay in without giving your sweet cheeks a headache especially the fully adjustable headbands ($8) which us chic-momma’s can wear too! We adore the no slip bows ($5) to add extra sweetness and the grosgrain ribbon barrettes ($4) in just too fun patterns and prints! The newly launched 3 pack of Pony Loops ($10) are perfect for pony tails (and a cinch to use too!). Don’t forget to check out the Soother Clips ($10) for the tiny tots in your life. The multifunctional clip is perfectly chic to hold the lovey; whether it is a pacifier, toy or Sippy cup.

All of Bugalugs high quality hair accessories are innovative, unique and one-of-a-kind for every style that suits your little, or big girl in an array of fun colors, prints and patterns. It’s easy to express yourself with Bugalug!

As for Creative Clips by Colleen – well, you may have seen them around town or in your weeklies on celeb tots like Tori Spelling’s little one, Stella and Denise Richard’s girls. They are truly for your little oh so chic fashionista.

Colleen Connon, mother of 2, set out after an unsuccessful search for fun hair accessories for her daughter’s fine hair and well, became VERY successful as Creative Clips have became wildly popular. We currently are obsessed with the Blue & Green Peacock headband ($12) that even we can wear, not just our girls! We just can’t get enough of the girly sequin glitz and glam bows in a wide variety of colors and styles. And of course, we adore the Cupcake clips! All the clips feature Velcro to prevent the clip from slipping in fine hair. In fact, there is nothing we don’t like – we are craving all the oh so chic bows and just can’t get enough of these FAB hair accessories.