Tune In -- Tori & Dean's Home Sweet Hollywood Season Premiere



Images courtsey of Oxygen

Lucky for us, we received the season premiere episode of Tori & Dean's Home Sweet Hollywood a few weeks earlier, and lets just say, we've watched it three times now. We know, a little obsessed to say the least! This season begins with a heartwarming (grab your tissues!) moment as the beloved Guncles Bill Horn and Scout Masterson anxiously await the arrival of new baby girl, Simone -- the baby of their dreams. It was so amazing to watch the joy and we just can't get enough of the Guncles we love! And it doesn't stop there -- The Gunles aren't the only ones with with big news to share. Tori gives Dean a surprise gift on Valentine's Day -- news that they are expecting their third child. Can we say exciting? We are jumping up down thinking about what this season has to bring! 

The Guncles everyone LOVES!

Sweet Simone
Image courtesy of Bill Horn

With a brand new business in the works and a brand new baby -- this season is action-packed.

The family that plays – and works - together stays together, and this season Tori, Dean, Liam and Stella show viewers again what a family living and working in Hollywood is all about. With a new store opening – an antique furniture and lifestyle store aptly named “invenTORI” - a book deal, dual acting careers and a third baby on the way, Tori and Dean once again prove that they can do it all, even under the spotlight of Hollywood.

Lehla Shop's Magneblooms inside invenTORI

With plenty of laugh out loud moments it is defintely one of the best premiere episodes so far and we are counting down the days until November 29th when it all begins -- full swing! Tori and Dean have captured us once again as they open their doors to a humble home and let us into a glimpse of their lives. The Spelling-McDermott's never let us down!

Tune into Oxygen for the Tori and Dean: Home Sweet Hollywood Season Premiere on Tuesday, November 29, at 10pm ET/PT. Don't miss it cupcakes! And while you wait, shop invenTORI now.

cupcakeMAG chats with celebrity trend expert & PR maven -- Rachel Florio-Urso!

When I went to write this intro, I pulled up my email and searched Rachel's email address. With hundreds of emails between us - I was shocked to realize when I looked at the very first convo between us to see it has been exactly 2 years today (click screen shot below!) since I have had the amazing privilege to work with this PR maven, Rachel Florio-Urso. It is our official "friendversary" (not to mention my wedding anniversary too!) and makes the perfect day for me to share this interview! 

Rachel Florio-Urso is one of most driven ladies I have worked with; she has passion, dedication, and not to mention, a turn around of like .2 seconds when it comes to emails. She is seriously - just amazing. I call her my go-to-gal because it is such a pleasure to work with someone who is so great at what they do and gets you things in flash-- sometimes, even overnight. Rachel is a miracle worker who bleeds perfection when it comes to the world of Littles! 

I could honestly type an entire page of how great she has been over the last two years but I won't bore you! Instead, just read our interview with Rachel below. You will soon see exactly why we not just value her friendship but simply adore Rachel.

{1} Tell us, what is a day in the life of Rachel Florio-Urso like? 

Where to start...?   

I kiss my husband, Robert goodbye at 7 AM as he heads off to work and one hour later it’s as if the timer starts the countdown! I text my oldest daughter to make sure she made it home from another late night college party and to see that she is up and not missing class. I then check to see if my other daughter made it to high school on time. After I know the girls are all set, I wake my son, get him dressed, fed and on the bus to elementary school. Then the dog gets walked, the beds get made and my work day begins. At my desk, I weed through an average of 500 emails daily, update my many SM accounts and meet numerous deadlines to gain brand recognition for my clients. Additionally, I am always forecasting trends and speaking with A-list celeb reps in order to gift them appropriately. FYI, paying to place your brand in a gift basket does NOT mean the celeb has it and it certainly doesn’t mean they wanted it or love it. Don’t be fooled!  

If I’m not traveling on a plane, train or in a car for my many meetings I am at my desk and often work through lunch. I think the phrase “There aren’t enough minutes in the day” was meant for me. I’m sure most of us working moms feel the same! I keep many lists and I am extremely organized so that keeps me sane. There is never a day that I don’t get to post a few media plugs on my site. Follow me on FB, Twitter or LinkedIn and you will see what I mean. I also started a new blog called, “Keeping up with Rachel Florio PR and the In’s and Out’s of the Biz”. These are somewhat informative yet personal posts when I have the time to share. I told everyone Jessica Simpson was pregnant last month and last night her rep emailed me the confirmation before People posted it. This is why you might want to follow me! 

After seven hours of typing, calling and meeting it is time to get my son off of the bus, get him a snack and spend some quality time together while going over his homework and then it’s back to my desk. Shortly after, I cook dinner and take care of the rest of the family while continuing to work from my iPhone or iPad. Dinner is our time to discuss the events of the day and to add sporting events, birthday parties and college tours to the calendar. I have a NO tech device rule in my kitchen and my dining room and the kids know that’s a rule not worth arguing over. When my two wonderful step children are home I am sure to give them some undivided attention as well as making it to all of their sporting events too. All of our kids know they are all loved equally! After everyone is off to bed the laptop is used for my late night Tweets and LinkedIn updates. You can find my Tweets at 2AM. It’s all crazy, but it’s also all great! I have my hobbies like riding horses, kart racing or sailing and we find time for family vacations (and staycations). We make it work! 

{2} What challenges do you face as you are running a major PR firm while running a household? 

I appreciate you calling my firm “major” - it didn’t happen over night! Hard work really does pay off. I am a very passionate person and if I believe in something I want to share it with the world. Someone once told me I could sell ice to Eskimos and while they might be right, I would only try to sell it if it was the very BEST ice an Eskimo could buy! I have always loved a challenge and doing all that I do is definitely a good one. I have owned my public relations business for over a decade now so it’s a part of me. Without it I think I would feel lost.  

A key component in achieving this level of success has always been my drive, determination and relationships I have built in this industry. I don’t give up until I close a deal and being selective as to the brands that I take on has allowed me to gain the respect of my fellow media members. Editors can rely on me, celeb agents trust me, bloggers know I have the goods and my clients love the press and connections that I make for them. When everyone is happy, I am happy! That is what really keeps me going. As cliché as it is, I can honestly say the bigger reward is not from the retainer, but rather from the “thank you” that someone gives me. I truly love to help people. I’m a proud humanitarian that knows we are all here for a short time and at the end of the day there isn’t anything more important than making someone happy.  

{3} How did you become so passionate as a celebrity trend expert? 

My world revolves around babies and children. I solely focus on a niche market: the baby and children market. Robert and I have five kids between the two of us ranging from ages eight to eighteen. It’s a juggling act, but we wouldn’t have it any other way. We are actually trying for baby number six! There isn’t a five minute period in my day where I am not looking at maternity, baby and child images, write ups or brand samples. I loved being pregnant. I loved having babies. I love children. I love my teens (even when they push mom to her limits!). I have produced and hosted over 40 television segments as a celebrity trend expert and I have enjoyed every one of them as much as my first! 

{4} What trends are you predicting for 2012?  

This is always my favorite question…  

You will be seeing more modern styles with clean lines when it comes to nursery and kid room furnishings and accessories. Bold colors and graphic prints will be even more appealing in 2012. I happen to love fluff and anything girlie or vintage inspired so I am proud to say this classic style is always here to stay. It’s not always about the trend. Each consumer has their own sense of style and as I always say, “be bold and mix it up”! If you enjoy the comforts of the things that surround you, you have successfully selected the right purchases for you.   

{5} Can you tell us about your latest project? 

Designer Diaperz! Watch for them as they will be all over the media and on a shelf near you soon! You can follow Designer Diaperz on Facebook or Twitter. This is a brand that I have dreamt about over the past seven years and I have been working on its launch with my partner, Robert Croak of Silly Bandz, for the past year.  

I wanted to be the woman that evolved the diaper world by introducing fully printed diapers. When I was offered to pitch my brand on Shark Tank I learned that other diaper manufacturers finally caught on and tested the market. I was devastated for about two minutes! When I saw them, touched them and noticed their price point I felt that much more excited and ready. So much so that I opted out of finalizing my Shark Tank paperwork and jumped on a plane to Toledo to meet with the man that made it big by creating the kid craze brand, Silly Bandz. I knew he was the perfect fit! Currently we are packaging our diapers and will be ready to roll them out soon. If any of you see a crazy lady in the diaper aisle of your local supermarket taking pictures of herself posed with diaper packages that would be me! I really think I will faint walking through a store that is carrying our brand! 

{6} What is up next for you?  

I am in talks with a few networks as I hope to gain my own show and hopefully another baby! Only time will tell. In the meantime I feel blessed to be able to do what I love to do on a daily basis! 

If you aren't already - make sure you LIKE Rachel Florio PR on Facebook, follow her on Twitter and sign up to receive blog updates! And, as Rachel always says....."Smile and Pass it on...." 

{All Things Rachel}

{Website}

{Blog}

{Twitter}

{Facebook}

{LinkedIn}

Thanks Rachel for this interview, for your friendship, and for just -- being you! 

cupcakeMAG Man of Style: Our Chat with Rob Kardashian

He's charming and buff -- and makes all the girls swoon. Rob Kardashian sits down and talks fashion, family and how to win his heart. We just can't get enough of his style too! 

cupcakeMAG: Khloe & Lamar just finished their first season (which you were hilarious on!) and Keeping up with the Kardashian just started the new season. How is it filming with your family all the time?

Rob: I LOVE filming with the Fam all the time because it is about the only time I get to see everyone together and that’s when we have the most fun!  Everyone is so busy nowadays but I remember the days when we would do bowling nights or dinners and then go to clubs but things are different these days and our family really doesn’t  like to go out and party like that anymore.  We our homebodies and just like to be with each other.

CM: When it comes to your sister's significant others, what's your philosophy? Are you welcoming from the start, or do you make them jump some hoops?

Rob: I am very welcoming if I vibe with the person. If the person is closed off and a bore then of course I am not going to open up.  Our Family is very fun and we need to see that from the other person as well.  We are all together all the time so we all need to click.  But I never make anyone jump through hoops.  I’m pretty easy going.

CM: Career-wise, where do you see yourself? I'm sure people ask you this all the time, but what do you want to do?

Rob: Well people just assume what they see is my entire life which is completely untrue. I think it’s hilarious that everyone who watches our show and thinks they know me and think I’m some loser with no job and mooches off my sisters.  My father raised me until he passed away and it was just me and him and his values with business and life are very strong and he would NEVER allow me to just be jobless.  He would kill me otherwise.  I worked at Abercrombie & Fitch believe it or not in high school with a bunch of my buddies and my girlfriend at the time.  It was pretty fun! (laughs) That lasted 2 months.  Then I worked for CBS/KCAL Sports for about 3 summers because I have a passion for being an ESPN anchor.  Then I went to USC and graduated from the Marshall Business School in Entrepreneurship.  Once I graduated I didn’t waste any time and I developed a skin care line called “Perfect Skin” with a partner of mine and I had my Sisters endorse the product.  I was working there for almost 2 years when I lost the passion for it and started an online video game company called “Rival Spot” which allows you to bet other people online in video games for money.  Pretty cool considering I LOVE video games!  I am developing a few more ventures currently.  Also, I am going to coach my high school track team with my good friend because we were really passionate about running in high school and just LOVE the sport! 

CM: Is there anything you miss about your life before the show?

Rob: I live the same life before the show as I do now.  Never did I change up my friends or become “Hollywood.”  That term makes me laugh.  I don’t even think of me as anything which I’m not in terms of the “celebrity” world.  I am the same guy as I was since middle school.  I do the same things and have the same circle.  I hate going out and I hate the fake scene.  But the opportunities that the show has brought to our Family is amazing and I just am taking advantage of that.   

Now, on to the style questions!

CM: What brands dominate your closet?

Rob: My high fashion game isn’t where I would want it to be yet because I still am into the more skater/surfer/hipster style.  I know how to get right and wear a suit if need be but I’m a casual guy and dress how I want to dress not how everyone else dresses.  Right now I wear CROOKS & CASTLES, DIAMOND, THE HUNDREDS.

CM: If you have an event to attend or you are going somewhere special do you dress yourself or do you look to your sisters for help?

Rob: I sometimes will ask for my Sister’s opinion and ask if I look ok because I hate going out and dressing up so I’m never comfortable and always need that second opinion.

CM: What upcoming projects do we have to look forward to? (We are pulling for The Rob & Lamar Show! You guys are SO funny together!)

Rob: I have a few things that are really cool but I can’t say yet! 

cupcakeMAG is a  big fan of all the Kardashians. Make sure you check out our interviews with Kourtney and Khloe too! And BIG THANKS to Rob for taking the time to chat with us - thanks for always making us laugh! 

Photo Credit: Getty Images

Contestants from The Bachelor and The Bachelorette take clothes off their backs for Charity!

The original Bachelorette Trista Sutter, The Bachelor’s Molly Mesnick and

eDrop-Off’s Corri McFadden auction off items for charity 

Trista Sutter (The Bachelorette) and Molly Mesnick (The Bachelor) are leading the pack of over 25 past contestants from the infamous shows to donate items worn during rose ceremonies, first dates and reunions. They have teamed up with luxury consignment service, eDrop-Off, to auction off the items beginning August 5^th and ending on August 12^th with 100% of the proceeds being donated to the Red Cross. They will also help host a “finale” event with eDrop-Off founder, Corri McFadden on August 11^th in Chicago. 

{Bid on one of Trista's dress now, bids start at $24.99!}

The various items include Trista Sutter’s rose ceremony dress (with Ryan), Molly Mesnick’s first rose ceremony dress (meeting Jason), Emily Maynard’s ceremony dress, Sarah Brice’s last rose ceremony dress (proposal to Charlie) and Ed Swiderski infamous green shorts. 

{Previously loved by Molly}
bid now here

Other participants include Ryan Sutter, Michelle Money, Nikki Kaapke, Graham Bunn, Jeremy Anderson, Jenn Waterman (Schefft), Shannon Oliver Robinson, Jason Mesnick, Peyton Wright, Chris Lamdton and Shawntel Newton, among others. 

About eDrop-Off

eDrop-Off is a Chicago based company that provides luxury consignment services to style savvy men and women. Specializing in reselling authentic designer clothing, handbags, shoes, jewelry, and accessories since 2004, eDrop Off has recycled nearly 200,000 lbs. of clothing for over 1,500 consignors across the country.  Through an extensive knowledge of the luxury marketplace and impeccable customer service, eDrop-Off has earned a reputable power seller status on online, with over 150,000 successful transactions.   

www.shopedropoff.com 

We are so happy to spread the word and help Trista & Molly get the word out! 

So head over now to get your shop on! 

 Don't forget to show your support by following them on Twitter! 

Tweet @RedCross and @ShopeDropOff now. 

Chatting with Emily Loftiss!

By: Tiffany Olson

I recently had the opportunity to chat with TV host, image consultant, dancer & model, Emily Loftiss!!!

Emily has been everything from an MTV MADE Coach, to a Radio City Rockette. She's worked as a TV Host for NBC, MTV, Time Warner and New York Fashion Week. She's traveled the country doing an array of Broadway shows, received national recognition for her choreography and currently models for L'Oreal Professionals.

I just had to get all the scoop on all the fun things she is doing! Read on to hear about her exciting new projects that you will not want to miss out on!

1. Emily, it seems you can just do it all!! Hosting, modeling, dancing... What is your favorite hat to wear?

It honestly changes daily. It truly depends on what I'm doing at the moment. If I am in the middle of Fashion week I think, "This is it! I love nothing more than to interview celebs, designers, and models!" But then a week later I'm performing on stage in front of an audience and I think, "no this is really where my heart is." I love that in the Entertainment World you can juggle a million businesses. I wouldn't change my Hosting/Emcee/fashion -beauty blog/dance teacher/pageant consultant/dancer/ model life for anything! I'm never bored!

2. Recently we saw you as a coach on MTV's Made! What did you think of the experience?

What a crazy 4 weeks that was. You have to remember the camera was rolling ever single second of ever single day. There were over 40 hours of footage crammed into a 1 hour show. There were MANY fights and make-ups that didn't make it into production. I'm happy to say that Kenzie and I are still in touch and she honestly turned over a new leaf. I love it that she'll text me "I got a new skirt and jewelry today at the mall! I'll send you a pic!" She wants me to be proud of her, and I truly am on her huge transformation.

3. You've interviewed a lot of celebrities, and met some really cool people. Who was the most interesting and memorable? Give us all the juicy details!!

Hmmmm let's see. Christina Ricci is THE cutest most down to earth girl on the planet. I swear James Franco was on drugs when I interviewed him! Mel B from Spice Girls has NO filter and will say anything that comes to her mind. She has a mouth like a sailor! Tim Gunn is one of my idols and is completely sincere and genuine. He just kept hugging me the whole interview! Christian Siriano, designer, came to below my shoulder. He is tiny. Kristin Chenowith really is that darling. It's crazy when your friends become stars-I've known Mathew Morrison from Glee for 8 years. Lord we always cut up and act a fool when he's around. Christina Perri, who's hit song Jar of Heart is everywhere- I stayed at her house last year and drove her car when she was out of town. She's the absolute best! Heart of an angel.

4. We LOVE your new site Loftiss Closet!!! I am always stalking out all the amazing clothes and accessories! How did you get the idea for this?

I really try to clean out my closet every 6 months. Well that time rolled around again and I had SOOO many clothes that were already featured on my Hosting Reel or seen on tv with MADE. I just needed to start over. Instead of taking them to a local consignment store a friend suggested I sell them on my blog Loftiss Says. In 2 weeks I sold around $1200 and got rid of so many things. Suddenly ALLLL my friends wanted in. I created Loftiss Closet because it's the perfect place to pick up fabulous designer clothes at a ridciously discounted price. It's less intimating then Ebay and I ensure you are completely happy with your purchase. I haven't had one complaint yet! My best clients are the Southern folks (ps I'm from South GA). I think it's because they want a amazing piece of New York. It's a win win for everyone!!!!!

5. What could we find in your makeup bag?

Here are some of my favorite things:

*Bobbi Brown blush in Nectar- perfect summer color

*Nuxe Dry Oil- makes your skin look perfectly dewy and doesn't break you out

*Ron King -liquid eyeliner I picked up in Austin, TX. I'll cry when I run out!

*Georgie Beauty false eyelashes- huge believer in fake lashes and rocking them all alot! And these are the best!

*Covergirl Lash Blast- this really is my favorite mascara. I've tried them all and this is my go to.

*Laure Geller Baked Blush N' Brighten -BRONZER!!!! I LOVE YOU!!!!!!

*some random bright nail polish- usually orange or Tiffany blue

6. Where do you get your style inspiration from? Do you have a "go to" outfit?

I personally don't want to blend in and black, especially in NYC, is the go to color. I'm the complete opposite! My favorite colors are bright Orange and Green!!!! I love walking down the street and feeling like a ray of sunshine. I am a genuinely happy person and I want my clothes to reflect that. I take huge fashion risks and feel comfortable rocking all styles and trends. Fashion is FUN!!!! Don't make it too complicated. My "go to" outfit day look is a blue jean onesie I picked up in Nashville. Just add tons of gold necklaces and bangles, orange lipstick, my cat-eye sunglasses and light brown sandles. My night time look is always a little dress. I am loving this color blocking dress from Lohemans with a yellow blouse, white skirt and grey zipper up the back. Louboutins nude heels and a Tory Burch gold clutch.

7. Where do you see yourself in 5 years? We can't wait to see all the fabulous things you do!

WELL THAT IS THE QUESTION OF THE YEAR! I just wrote a Make-Over TV Show and I'm trying to figure out how to fine tune that and workshop that to different networks. I'd love to be hosting a fab show related to Fashion and Beauty while working on my make-over book. I know I have to get some bigger things under my belt before I start my empire of books, fashion line etc... I just keep trucking along and I know it will all happen. This is when hard work and faith join hands.

8. What is next for you? Any new projects in the works?

I'm still modeling for L'Oreal. I am teaching Masterclasses in Dance and business side of Entertainment Career across the US. I just launched "That Would Work If...." Seminars when I help clients tweak their closets in being more fashion forward. Writing for my blog www.loftisssays.com -which I LOVE LOVE LOVE!!!!! I'm really great about keeping my website/blog updated so check them out to see where in the world I'm traveling next!

9. What is your best advice? For anything!

DREAM BIG!!!! If I was realistic about life I would have never moved to NYC, danced professionally for 8 years, booked gigs in tv, print, commercials, tours etc. I have always been my biggest fan and surrounded myself with people who love me and want me to succeed. If you want it....make it happen. I really do believe in making your own fate. And when you do make your own choices on your life you will be happier within than you can ever imagine.

Don't you just love Emily?? She can seriously do it all! We are so glad she is a friend of cupcakeMAG!!

To keep up with Emily or to contact her for image consultations/Masterclasses, check out her website: www.emilyloftiss.com. And please check out her blog: www.loftisssays.com to learn about Fashion, Pop Culture, Beauty Tips and more! Also check out her newest site, http://loftisscloset.tumblr.com/ to score some amazing clothes and accessories!

You can also follow Emily on twitter!! @EmilyLoftiss And be her facebook friend!!

Catching Up with Alexis Bellino!

Alexis Bellino isn't just a star from Bravo TV's hit series, The Real Housewives of Orange County. Alexis is one of the most down-to-earth and humble people we have ever met. And well, just simply FABulous. {And did we mention super sweet too?} We were so excited to catch-up with all things Alexis and most of all to share it with all of our Alexis fans out there! Read on to see whats new, her thoughts on the drama-filled season and - the do we dare ask {oh yes, we do!} question!

{Alexis Casual, The Black Maxi Dress}
{Buy it NOW!}

{1} Since we spoke last season, what is new?

Wow, so much is new!! Where to begin? I just celebrated my 6th wedding anniversary April 16! My husband is the light of my life, and my best friend! My son's 5th birthday was May 4th, so I am so thankful every day he came into my life 5 years ago! He has grown into such a wise, amazing young boy! I hate to say he is a boy now, and not a baby. I still call my girls "babies" though since they are only 31/2. {laughs} I honestly think my husband is going to go crazy because I am ready for another baby now that the kids are older!  

Business wise, I have launched my maxi line, which is an entirely new endeavor aside from Alexis Couture and Alexis Casual that I decided to take on! The first "Braid" maxi has done extremely well! We are offering it in summer colors in the next two weeks, and we are offering it up to size 16! 

We also just launched Alexis Couture on Sunday, May 8th, with many dresses available! I also have my hat line with the "Bling" trucker hat as the first hat, and the "Conviction" trucker hat comes out next week. And hold tight, because I have a few other secret items in the works! So it's an exciting time right now!  You can go to www.everythingalexis.com to order any of my hats or dresses now! 

{2} This season has been drama-filled! Would you say more so then last season? 

I definitely have to say this season is more drama-filled than last season. I think a lot of it has to do with the fact that I am more vocal and more comfortable with the cameras, and also the fact that some of the people I thought were friends have shown their true colors. 

{3} Do we dare ask, what is your relationship like now with the other housewives? 

{laughs} Yes, you can ask! Gretchen is one of my closest friends. We are a lot alike, we don't expect too much from each other, and we only want loyalty and respect in return. With Tamra I am saddened by the fact that I found out in episode 3 that she really wasn't my friend, and I thought she was up until that point. Vicki and I tried to make amends this year, and we are still working towards that. We have had a couple hiccups along the way, but I'm hopeful that things will work out. Peggy was my friend of 4 years, and unfortunately I never wanted her on the show because I was afraid that it would wreck our friendship, and it did just that. She is not the same person I knew a year ago. So there you have it in a nutshell! 

{4.} Since starting the show, would you say your life has changed? If so, in what ways?  

I think it's impossible for reality TV NOT to change someones life. I feel this show has mostly been a positive thing in my life. Just as with any career, it has it's ups and downs, however, it has made my family stronger, my husband and I are closer and have learned a lot about each other and ourselves. I love the ability to express my faith and show that Christians are not perfect, and entertain people along the way. I am also very thankful for the opportunities it has brought my way. And best of all, I have a two-year documentary with my kids! 

{5.} How is the Alexis Couture fashion line going? What tips do you have for other MOMpreneurs managing it all? 

Alexis Couture is going so well! We launched May 8, and you can purchase any of the styles on www.everythingalexis.com. It has been rough, don't get me wrong! I probably have some gray hairs underneath this blonde after this baby launched, but it has been such a growing experience for me, and so much fun along the way!  My biggest advice to any MOMpreneur (I love this term by the way ever since I saw it on Twitter!)  is that YOU CAN DO IT! I know it seems there are never enough hours in a day, and look I'm doing this interview at midnight!  I do my best work between 10pm and 2am since I began working! But it's important to believe in yourself and your passion the entire step of the way. My second tip to MOMpreneurs is to learn to say no to certain things. I have to admit that my social life is about 1/10th of what it use to be. I have a very small window of free time after my kids, my husband and my career, so I have to select very carefully what (and who) I fill that time with. And my kids are the FIRST thing to fill my time. 

{6.} You always are so perfectly together when it comes to your wardrobe! As a Mom of 3, how do you time for yourself? 

Thank you for that compliment. Geez, I don't feel that way! Honestly, that has been such a struggle for me. I use to be able to work out 4-5 days a week, (and working out is my stress reliever) now I'm lucky if I get to work out two days. I just feel like I will eventually get that "me" time back again, but right now it's "game time" as I like to call it. Everyone's life has seasons, and I am in a family season, combined with a work season, so "me" time has to take a back burner for the time being.

{7.} What is your go-to outfit? How would you describe your style? 

My go-to outfit depends...is this a stay home day, an errand day or a press day? {laughs} For stay home it's sweats all the way baby (and no makeup) ! For errand day it's a long maxi dress. For a press day, it's a cute dress with YSL or Louboutin stilettos! (I love dresses---as we all know!)

{8.} Besides The Real Housewives of Orange County - what other reality TV do you watch?  

I LOVE Dancing With the Stars! And I want to be on it---competing against my husband!! {laughs} He is an amazing salsa dancer, but I think with a ton of training I have the desire and ambition to kick his butt! Oh, and The Bachelor/Bachelorette...I'm a hopeless romantic! Oh, and any other HW show...although I am naming all of these shows and I can't remember the last time I had a free hour to watch any of them! HA!

{9.} What is up next for you? Any new or upcoming projects? 

I have a few new projects in the works, and my husband just bought a new exciting business that I will be very involved with, but you have to stay tuned, and keep checking my facebook Alexis Bellino Verified Profile and twitter @alexisbellino or my website www.everythingalexis.com for updates! 

{Make sure you all stay tuned to the Season 6 Finale of The Real Housewives of Orange County this Sunday on Bravo!}

Kate Plus 8 is BACK!

cupcakeMAG gives you scoop with all things Kate and just how FABulous she is!  

Check out the one on one chat with Kate Gosselin! 

{All images courtesy of TLC}

On Monday, April 4 at 10pm, TLC brings back all-new episodes of KATE PLUS 8. Excited yet? We are thrilled. The hour-long premiere episode follows Kate and her eight as they travel 21 hours across the globe to Australia – the longest flight they’ve ever taken. Read on to see what they have been up to as they have never stopped filming. Get to know Kate a little more - from her pet peeves to her style - Kate gives us a second look at her life. 

In our interview we learned that Kate is only human as she confess to us that "My house is always somewhat 'clutter controlled', my bedroom/office is my 'dumping grounds' as I call it. It's always in half packed to go away mode and half unpacked mode... It's atrocious and I long for help in that arena...disturbing even on its best days..." She also filled us in our her newest pet peeves, " toys, snacks, cups, school paraphernalia, etc. rolling around my vehicle while driving" and like us, she probably couldn't survive without her iPhone. Kate is seriously an amazing mother and we were thrilled that she had a chance to fill us in on life. We just adore Kate and her amazing 8!

1.) We have to say -- we missed YOU and are thrilled that Kate Plus 8 is back for a 2nd season. What can we expect to see this season? 

We've not stopped filming at all so our crazily wonderful schedule has never missed a beat, but you can expect lots of travel to amazing places, some helping others, local history/education... Fun, fun, fun and lots of kid noise and mom's loud voice, as always! :)

2.) Your latest book, I Just Want You to Know, how did that come about? It will be great for your kids to read and look back on one day. We loved the format of how you wrote it. 

I Just Want You To Know was the combining of my journal I kept nearly daily while still married and before (Jon &) Kate plus 8 was a household name. It describes my struggles of that time with 8 young kids. Also laced into the book is a personal letter to each of my kids that describes them, my unique love for them, my challenges to them and my dreams for each of them. Overall, it's my favorite book I've written (on my own on my iPhone as I was traveling, no less) of my three. It's timeless and true and has surprisingly inspired moms all over to write a love letter to each of their children! Not intended, but a wonderful outcome! 

3.) Over the years we have watched how organized you are and really, have to be. What suggestions do you have or what are some of your favorite tips to keep things organized?

Do it now! If something needs to be labeled, taken care of, etc, do it now or at very least, keep a running to do list and make sure it gets on it now. My list is in the notes section of my iPhone and I have each week on it's own page with each date listed and things that need to get done on it daily (this mag interview was on today's list) as well as Target, Whole Foods list etc. I make lists! End of organizational story.

4.) You are constantly on the go and always look so well put together. What is your go-to outfit?

Aww, thanks. I go to: Jeans, a cute top and earrings and heels. Done.

5.) Back to Kate Plus 8! How has the show changed? 

Other than the obvious changes, the kids are growing up, developing friendships and schedules of their own, opinions, love of travel and knowledge and our life stress is changing in nature but constant so there's still lots of drama! Hopefully someday, you'll see me dating (gulp!) at some point... I'm moving towards considering a possibility of re-entering that world of dating... Maybe! {lol}

 
6.) Are you glad to have the film crew back? I am sure the kids love having them!

They've never gone and yes, we indeed love our friends.
 

7.) You are one busy momma + have taught so many how you can balance + be a super woman. What's up next for you? 

Currently I'm holding steady. However, I'm open always for more fun (I consider work fun... Love what I do!) and different new experiences in the media/TV world. I feel comfortable in my career and am constantly challenging myself to do more and do it well-- to the best of my ability! So, we shall see what 2011 brings my way!

And lastly, get to Kate a little more! Read on to see just what who her latest love is....

Likes: My dog Shoka -- I'm totally in love with him now (we got off to a rough puppy start but since getting him back, we are ALL in love with him). Very lucky he is part of our family. He absorbs worry and gives unconditional love!

Dislikes: decaf coffee, cold coffee, coffee that is so strong I choke! 

We seriously adore Kate (we need TEAM KATE shirts around here!) and can't wait for Season 2 of Kate Plus 8! Set your DVR's now and remember to watch Kate Plus 8 on TLC this Monday, April 4th! Check your local listings so you don't miss it!