Check Out Erika Mark’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Erika Mark.

Hi Erika, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
The glamour of Hollywood. The rebellious spirit of rock ‘n’ roll. The vivaciousness of Marilyn Monroe.

Established in Hollywood, CA and Made in the USA

My journey as a designer began in Youngstown, Ohio where I grew up. At a young age, my parents encouraged me to be the creative, independent, unique, free spirit I am today. Much of my childhood was spent playing dress up in my grandmother’s vintage slips and jewels. By the 5th grade, I became enamored with Marilyn Monroe and started dressing up in leopard print, fur boleros and red lipstick. I wanted to be just as fabulous as the blonde bombshell!

I took the first steps in pursuing my dreams by studying fashion at Philadelphia University and in Florence, Italy. After returning to the states, I moved west to pursue my career in fashion – seeking the individuality, freedom, and magic of Hollywood. I have since worked with such high fashion names as Betsey Johnson, Baby Phat, Nanette Lepore, True Religion, and Christian Audigier.

Black Cake Clothing’s epic adventure began at an estate sale when I stumbled across a magical box of sexy vintage clothing. The box consisted primarily of lingerie styles like peignoir sets and slips. At the time, I had no idea that this box would evolve into Black Cake. Inspired by these pieces, I went to work designing clothing.

Passionately involved in building a lifestyle brand that inspires, guides and motivates women to live a thrilling life, I have launched my latest alluring creations: Black Cake’s Zodiac Sex Massage Candles.

Imagine the stars aligning for the most amazing sex ever. Black Cake’s Zodiac Massage Candles are a combination of coconut and soy wax blended with the finest natural ingredients (vegan/soy/non-gmo) and poured into a beautiful hand illustrated glass cylinder that radiates sensuality. Each Zodiac Massage Candle celebrates your sign by revealing a sex position that fits your astrological sign’s unique and sexy personality. Included is a fortune specifically tailored to your star sign’s position. I hand drew the illustrations making each candle a piece of art. These candles are exactly what your zodiac sign craves (and your partner too!).

Black Cake is currently working with small contemporary boutiques and gift shops like The Museum of Sex NY, Lisa Kline Los Angeles, Awakening Boutique Colorado and Polka Dots & Moonbeams LA. We are proud to be sold at Dolls Kill, the global online fashion retailer.

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
Of course, there are always bumps in the road. When I started the line, I did not know where I was going with it… I have spent many, many, many late nights at my home in Hollywood with my three dogs, figuring this out. As a self-financed one woman show, I wear many hats and am involved in every aspect of my business. This can be extremely overwhelming and stressful at times. However, I live by the core belief that as you follow your passion the world becomes a better place. Black Cake is my passion.

Last fall, my identity was compromised and my company was attacked. I lost my Facebook and Instagram (over 10,000 followers). These social handles took years to single-handedly build. I would appreciate a follow @blackcakeclothing

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Black Cake is best known for our sexy silhouettes and unique, lush fabrics. Our must-have item is the Starlet Lace Wrap Dress which has been seen on celebrities like Nikki Bella and worn onstage by infamous burlesque dancer Angie Pontani with Lady Gaga at the NoMad at Park MGM. Proudly made locally. Black Cake caters to a women’s femininity, confidence and individuality. We produce small quantity to keep the line exclusive.

In recent years, Black Cake’s Zodiac Massage Candles have entered the spotlight. High in demand, the candles celebrate your sign by revealing a sex position that fits your astrological sign’s unique and sexy personality. Included is a fortune specifically tailored to your star sign’s position. Proudly, I hand drew the illustrations making each candle a unique piece of art unlike any other on the market. These candles are exactly what your zodiac sign craves (and your partner too!).

Recently, I partnered up with O’Neal McKnight on Neon Sunset, streetwear swimwear. Created in Los Angeles, the Neon Sunset brand is rooted deep in the city’s lifestyle. Neon Sunset embodies Los Angeles’s retro streetwear vibe and uniquely blends it with the California fun in the sun attitude. Follow us @neonsunset_apparel

Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
I am very lucky to have had a great foundation- thank you to my mom, dad and my #1 fan, my sister, Anna. A special thank you to my three dogs, my tribe- Peanut, Dora and Butter. My dogs have shown me unconditional love through thick and thin. Sadly, Peanut and Dora transitioned earlier this year. I miss them everyday.

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Website: www.blackcakeclothing.com
• Instagram: blackcakeclothing
• Youtube: https://youtu.be/m2p-arncDQw

Image Credits:
PHOTOSHOOT: Clothing: Black Cake Clothing HMUA: Steffeney Bonilla Harris Photographer: Devin Dygert Available at: www.blackcakeclothing.com IG: BlackCakeClothing