Mompreneur: Chef Tina Fredricks and Little Piggy Cupcakes

Marin mom Tina Fredericks, a culinary baker and certified pastry chef, has created a career for herself with Little Piggy Cupcakes, a business that supplies the tasty treats for birthday parties, baby showers, weddings and other events. You can purchase cupcakes, try a free sample, and meet Chef Tina at the Little Piggy Cupcakes booth at the Marin County Farmer's Market at the Civic Center in San Rafael (Sundays, 8 am to 1 pm). For more information, visit www.littlepiggycupcakes.com or call (415) 572-3483.

Tina shared with us a little about herself and her cupcakes, and what makes these little tasty treats so special.

Please tell us a little bit about yourself and your background.
Native of San Francisco Bay Area. Settled in Marin County to raise a family. Earned Baking and Pastry Arts Certificate at California Culinary Academy in San Francisco

How did you get started making cupcakes as a business?
My daughter was born a few months after I graduated from culinary school. Being a new mom and having recently moved to Marin, I joined the San Rafael Mothers Club, instantly gaining a network of support and friends. Doing cupcakes for kids of my mommy friends fit perfectly with responsibilities as a mom. I felt like I was helping other mommies like me and getting a start on my career. Doing kids birthday parties is still one of the my absolute favorite events to do.
What's your favorite thing about making and selling cupcakes?

My favorite thing about making cupcakes is creating a cupcake flavor in its purest form, which can only result in natural flavorings. For example, people are always surprised at how our Strawberry Cupcake does not have that fake strawberry flavor. That's because we use real strawberry puree made from locally grown Farmers Market naturally sweet strawberries.
My favorite thing about selling cupcakes is watching people eat my cupcakes. I love witnessing the silent bliss or hearing "omigod!".

Where can people taste and buy your cupcakes? Can you order cupcakes for birthdays, weddings, etc.?

We do all occasions—birthdays, baby showers, bridal showers, weddings, you name it. You can place your order online, by phone or email, 2–5 days in advance before your event. You can get free samples and purchase in singles at the Sunday Marin Farmers Market 8 am–1 pm.

What are your most popular flavors and designs?

Our most popular flavors are: chocolate cream cheese, strawberry, lemon buttercream, coconut, carrot, and red velvet.Our most popular designs for kids birthdays are princess and pirate.

What do you love most about living and working in Marin?

I love being close to nature and parks, living in a family-oriented community of San Rafael/Terra Linda. I love that Marin has several small, cozy neighborhoods, each with their own personality.