“I am in awe of what Monique has achieved over 15 years.”
Dannii Minogue
“I’ve only ever inhaled one thing quicker than I inhaled this book … and it was one of Monique’s Vanilla Vanilla cupcakes.”
Chrissie Swan
Monique Milenkovic didn’t mean to build an iconic cupcake brand; she simply wanted to own a little cupcake store in her local community and craft a lifestyle that integrated her family and her passion for baking. But destiny had other plans.
When Monique discovered a surprising gap in the market, her baking ‘hobby’ blossomed into a business. It wasn’t until personal tragedy struck and shook the core of her being that Monique decided to fully ‘go for it’ and never look back. And thus, The Cupcake Queens was born. The iconic brand of sweetness that delights, surprises, and celebrates life’s best moments every day.
Celebration & Inspiration is not your average business book; it’s a collection of actionable insights and real-life motivation to help budding entrepreneurs make their own businesses sustainable and profitable – while still celebrating and having fun! Yes, business owners can have their cake and eat it too.
As a mother of five children and owner of multiple stores, Monique shares the ups and downs of her personal journey and offers practical advice on how to:
- Build a resilient mindset and lasting business
- Craft a lifestyle with work-life integration
- Prioritise community, customer care, and charity into your business
- Invest in yourself and your team
- Cultivate ongoing business inspiration and celebration principles
Yes, with the right ingredients and method, you really can build a thriving stand-out brand from scratch to scale.
Testimonials
“I am in awe of what Monique has achieved over 15 years, and it is not just about her incredible cupcakes – it is her passion, drive and connection with her customers and raising a family too. My pregnancy craving was cupcakes, so I have been a big fan of The Cupcake Queens’ perfect cupcakes since then – so much so they have become a birthday tradition for my son’s birthday celebrations. A hot tip: if you just can’t choose which flavour to get, try a mixed box … but also you will never find a better vanilla cupcake!”
– Dannii Minogue, singer, TV presenter, fashion designer, actress, author, mum
“Monique is and has always been a passionate professional. We have used The Cupcake Queens for all of our celebrations and they never disappoint. Incredible looking cakes that taste amazing. Congratulations Monique on 15 fabulous years!”
– Alex Fevola, CEO and founder of Runway Room Enterprises
“I’ve always wondered how on earth one woman managed to raise so many kids, run so many stores, give so much joy and bake SO MANY cupcakes … all the inspirational and surprising answers are within these pages!”
– Chrissie Swan, media and radio presenter and cupcake enthusiast
“There’s something truly special about seeing someone thrive and succeed in what they love, and even more so when that passion spreads joy to others. That’s exactly what Monique and The Cupcake Queens do! Of course, the cupcakes are unquestionably delicious, but it’s the heart Monique pours into her business. For me, what really makes The Cupcake Queens so special is the pure, feel good excitement it brings to everyone … every bite is a little piece of happiness!”
– Anthony Callea, singer and ARIA Music Award winner
“I have known Monique since our school days. Every little thing she does is done with a sparkle of creativity and positivity. She is tireless and I marvel at how she makes everything look effortless, even when it’s not. I interview rockstars for a living, but in my community of wonderful women, Monique stands head and shoulders above many of the musos I am fortunate to rub shoulders with. True dedication isn’t just about talent – it’s about hard work, perseverance, and the unshakable belief in yourself. Monique is a reminder to me and so many others, that we all have the power to turn our dreams into reality – one cupcake at a time.”
– Jane Gazzo, music journalist, TV presenter, author, public speaker
“Amazing business, amazing cakes, and incredible attention to detail. I highly recommend The Cupcake Queens!”
– Brendan Fevola, former AFL player and radio presenter
“Monique is an absolute powerhouse woman who not only inspires others to think big and go for their dreams, but she is so kind and humble. She is someone who I’m honoured to know and call a friend. I know that this book is going to inspire so many to absolutely back themselves and go for their dreams!”
– Erika Cramer, bestselling author and founder of The Queen of Confidence
“I’ve known Monique for over 35 years and can proudly say I was an OG taste tester. This business is not just about delicious cupcakes though, it’s about Monique’s connection with people, passion for success and dedication to her community; and it’s why you don’t go anywhere else when you’re thinking about your next cake celebration.”
– Pru Corrigan, CEO of One Daydream
“We’re completely in awe of Monique’s ability to juggle so many aspects of life while still achieving amazing things. Not only has she written a truly inspiring book, but her dedication to philanthropy, family, and staying connected with others is as sweet as her famous cupcakes. This book reflects the same energy, passion, and commitment to giving back that’s always been at the heart of who she is.”
– Jarrad and Michael Duggan-Tierney, The Real Dads of Melbourne
“Monique Milenkovic, also known as The Cupcake Queen, is a phenomenal woman. Her generosity knows no bounds. And she gives without expecting to receive anything in return. She has the most exceptional organisational skills and high energy, and is extremely thoughtful and humble. There seems to be nothing that she can’t achieve, always with a smile on her face. Rarely do I meet someone as selfless as Monique who does things for others to bring pure happiness. She is an exceptional friend, mother, businesswoman, and a true pillar of our society. Congratulations on 15 years of cupcakes. The sweet taste of Monique’s cupcakes lingers for a few minutes but the joy that she brings will last a lifetime.”
– Dr Chantel Thornton, specialist breast cancer surgeon, speaker, MC and philanthropy advocate
