Treat Yo’Self

DJ Keenan Orr Spinnin' (Copyright The Cupcake Critic)

Earlier this month I attended Treat Yo’ Self! which is the collaborative efforts of One Love Massive and Crunkcakes.  The name is a spin-off of a popular story line from the NBC comedy, Parks & Recreation. The artisans’ market was held at the Mellow Mushroom in Adams Morgan and featured DJ Keenan Orr.  Drinks were poured while warm stuffed pizza flowed on every bar corner and eager buyers looked through the wares of the many talented vendors.

The Crunkcakes Table

When I walked in, I was immediately greeted with vendors ranging from food to jewelry to art work. To the left were the ladies of Crunkcakes and their new treats, The Biggie Smalls. I bought two cuppies; one buttery nipple (my favorite) and the maple bacon (hmmm…bacon). The salty and sweet mixture was awesome!

Original artwork by B. Doty

Original artwork by C. Cafferty

In the corner was original artwork by Brittany Doty and Caroline Cafferty; budding artists who were more than eager to share the inspiration for their artwork. Many of the pieces ranged from vampy re-creations of Blondie or Marilyn Monroe, to dark pieces that could rival Tim Burton’s best films. Next door was DC Patisserie whom my sister (and Critic in training), purchased a dozen of their macarons from and enjoyed thoroughly.

DC Patissiere Macarons

DC Patissiere Vendor

On the other side of Crunkcakes, I spotted K &M Cupcakes. They offered cupcakes, red velvet heart-shaped brownies and cookies. Fab Fete is a new-comer who offered homemade hummus, caramel corn and a variety of gluten-free cookies. Although The Critic has no issues with gluten, I appreciate vendors who cater to a diverse digestive track. My sister bought two containers of hummus while I purchased the cranberry and oatmeal cookies – they were umm-umm good!

K&M Cupcakes

Square in the center with an ornate display was DC new-comer Chica Bom Bom. They were selling brigadeiros, a Brazilian treat similar to a caramal bon bon and made with condensed milk. The owner explained to me their process of making them and had coconut, nutella and chocolate samples available.

Chica Bom Boms

Hazelnut, Nutella, Coconut and Chocolate Brigadeiros

Doubling back, I spoke with Rachel Pfeffer of Rachel Pfeffer Designs. The daughter of a jeweler, her collection had some awesome pieces including silver and brass statement necklaces and natural mineral rings to the tune of $113 and up. Despite being an all-cash event, many vendors accepted credit cards through portable scanners. Overall the event was awesome and the people of One Love Massive have outdone themselves again.