Check Out Derek Xavier’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Derek Xavier

Hi Derek Xavier, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
It all started in the streets of Paris.

Actually – that sounds rather dramatic, but it did! My sister had mentioned to me in passing that there was a store called POP MART that I should check out that was right across from our hotel. I didn’t have any expectations, nor did I even really know it was a blind box store, but it was honestly love at first sight. The rows of collectible art toys drew me in, but it was Labubu that caught my eye.

These must-have bag charms weren’t popular at the time, but I truly could not resist how cute they were. I bought two Labubu Exciting Macaron blind boxes and the rest is history from there.

I am not new to the world of collecting, however this was my first endeavor in the world of blind boxes and I do not have a single regret. I’ve met so many amazing people and had so many opportunities in the time I’ve been doing this (a little over a year), and I’m so excited to see what happens next. I’ve learned how to edit, how to mix sounds, a bit of social media strategy and everything else in between. And it’s all so amazing.

I never really had a hobby or even an opportunity to express myself creatively. I mean, I definitely wanted to, but was afraid. Blind boxes changed that. The toy collecting community was so welcoming, and with their support and encouragement, it really pushed me to become the creator I am today. I’m so grateful for this journey and I’m still learning something new every single day.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The road wasn’t easy, but that’s what the journey is all about, right?

In the beginning, I barely knew how to edit a video – in fact, if you scroll back you can still see my very first unboxing, which was a POP MART Pucky Rabbit Cafe blind box! It didn’t have any bells or whistles, and was frankly quite long (over 30 seconds). But I fell in love with editing from there.

I never had a teacher or a mentor who taught me how to edit, I just threw myself into it again and again and again to see what I liked doing, what stuck, what worked, what didn’t. Videos I thought were going to be a success didn’t hit, videos that I thought weren’t going to do too well blew up. And through of all that, I kept going.

There were (and are sometimes, still) late nights where I’m editing to make a deadline or trying to get that perfect feel to a video. But it’s all worth it in the end. I feel such a sense of pride from looking at the finished product and I only ever want to put out work that I am truly proud of.

If I didn’t give it my all, why would I show the audience something I’m not truly proud of?

The urge to be consistent and my desire to learn were my biggest struggles and obstacles, but I can happily say that those struggles helped me grow.

Struggles come and go, but the journey is what really matters.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m Derek Xavier, but you probably know me as @derrycake! You can call me Derek or Derry, it’s all up to you!

I’m a content creator and, first and foremost, a passionate toy collector. My world revolves around unboxing, and I love sharing the excitement of discovering everything from those surprise-filled blind boxes to the meticulously crafted premium statues and figures through short-form videos. Honestly, collecting isn’t just a job for me; it’s a lifelong love. I was into collecting long before I ever thought about sharing it online.

One thing I’m really keen to get across is that toys aren’t just for kids. I mean, think about it: trinkets, toys, figures – whatever you want to call them – they bring a genuine spark of happiness. And why should that joy be restricted by age? Whether it’s the thrill of finally completing a plushie collection or the satisfaction of pulling that rare blind box figure you’ve been hunting for, toys can be a fantastic way to unwind, get creative, and just feel good. Joy is limitless, and if toys are your source, then embrace it, no matter how old you are.

I’m on a mission to spread that passion and joy. I see firsthand how much happiness a toy can bring, and I love sharing that with my audience. I try to put a little bit of myself, and the stories behind my collection, into every video. I hope it inspires others to dive into their own collecting passions.

But the real magic for me is the community. Connecting with fellow collectors, chatting about our latest finds, and sharing those ‘I finally got it!’ moments – it’s truly heartwarming. It’s so much more than just owning things. It’s about the shared excitement, the connections, and the friendships we build along the way.

Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
The greatest support I can ever ask for really is to just watch my videos! Knowing that someone, somewhere out there saw the work I did makes me happy. To me, this isn’t about the likes, comments or follows. I’m not here for fame, I’m here because I’m passionate in the editing and work that I do. I’m here, because toys make me happy and I want to share that.

Of course, if anyone wants to work or collaborate with me, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Let’s see what we can create together!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://linktr.ee/derrycake
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/derrycake
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYA3zeVU9puFbPyR7kK4RKQ