Today we’d like to introduce you to Janelle Valencia.
Janelle, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I’m a second-generation Filipino American, born, raised, and currently living in the vibrant, predominantly Chicano neighborhood of Boyle Heights—just a few blocks from Little Tokyo. The culture of my community, along with my own heritage, has always deeply inspired me—especially through something as simple yet powerful as food and aesthetics. That connection is at the heart of everything I create.
I design wearable, decorative, and stationery art novelties inspired by food. It all began when I stumbled upon a video of someone making miniature dollhouse desserts while scrolling through social media. I became deliciously obsessed with food miniatures and decided to try making my own. What started as a fun hobby with my nieces quickly grew into a passion for crafting bold statement pieces and playful merch.
I launched my Etsy shop in 2018, and by 2021, I opened my own website. Today, most of my sales come from vending at local markets that highlight and uplift women of color artists—including Mujeres Market, JOAH, Mayumi Market, and Harajuku Day LA.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Running a small art business has been both exciting and challenging; especially because I started it as a hobby, with no expectations. What began as a creative outlet quickly grew into something more meaningful. Along the way, I’ve faced criticism from people who saw it as a waste of time and money. But often, that kind of negativity comes from those who don’t understand the joy and value this work brings—not just to me, but to others as well.
To them, I say: feel free to unfollow and focus on what makes you happy.
Despite the doubts, I’ve carved out a path that allowed me to grow my business, earn an income, build my skill and weave it into my busy life in a way that suits me.
As we get older, especially in today’s political and cultural climate, it’s become more important to me that my art stays centered on simple pleasures, things that remind us of childhood, when the world felt colorful, bright, and full of imagination. A time when creativity was second nature and being silly was celebrated.
For me, it’s always been—and will always be—about sparking joy, happiness, and nostalgia. And hopefully, people from my generation, as well as older and younger ones, feel a bit of that when they take home a piece of my art.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I create wearable, decorative, and stationery art novelties inspired by food; playful pieces designed to spark joy. I primarily work with polymer clay, acrylic paint, and a variety of mixed media to bring each design to life. Some of my most popular items include my Tacos and Beer pins, bold statement charm necklaces, vinyl stickers, and my cheerful Happy “Era” series of greeting notecards. I also offer wholesale and custom pieces.
Like any artist, what sets me apart is my technique, style, and personal background, because no two creatives are alike. That’s why I believe it matters where and who you buy from. Your support isn’t just for a product, it’s for a person, a process, and a story.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
Catch me at local market events throughout Los Angeles in 2025! You’ll often find me in Little Tokyo, Hollywood, the Valley, and other surrounding neighborhoods. For the latest updates on where I’ll be popping up next, follow me on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok @lipsandcake or visit my website at www.lipsandcake.com.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.lipsandcake.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lipsandcake
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lipsandcake/
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@lipsandcake
