We had the good fortune of connecting with Derek Xavier and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Derek Xavier, we’d love to hear what makes you happy.
Hands down unboxing new toys and meeting fellow collectors! Blind boxes are honestly like Christmas morning every time. There’s an undeniable thrill in tearing open that packaging and revealing a surprise – whether it’s the figure you wanted, or another one you weren’t expecting! It’s like welcoming a new friend into my collection.

Beyond the initial excitement, there’s also a profound sense of joy in carefully examining each detail of a figure. To this day I still notice new little details here and there. Every new figure is a small piece of art that sparks my imagination. I love the process of capturing these moments through videos and sharing them with the world. Seeing other people’s excitement and enthusiasm when they watch my unboxing videos and have similar reactions brings a smile to my face.

Collecting toys has become more than just a hobby; it’s a passion. It’s a way for me to connect with my inner child, and to relive that sense of wonder and excitement that made childhood so special. It’s a tangible way to hold onto a piece of nostalgia.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
There’s an incredible joy in discovering new pieces and sharing that excitement with others. I love to show my joy and excitement for toys through videos. Whether its editing a new collection, to storyboarding a fun video idea, I feel that the possibilities are endless and my passion to create constantly drives me.

Growing up, I never really expressed myself artistically, and getting to do this through film and editing is such a dream. I didn’t even know how to edit a video until earlier this year, and learning was definitely not easy. But seeing how far I’ve come pushes me, and I still learn new things every single day.

Toys to me are more than just plastic or metal; they’re portals to cherished childhood memories and a gateway to a world of imagination.

I’m most proud of taking the leap to become a content creator. I used to be so shy and was afraid of putting myself out there. Seeing how my posts can spark joy and conversation is incredibly rewarding. It makes me so happy to know that other people not only enjoy the content I create, but also feel the same passion that I do. However, creating and doing all of this hasn’t been without its challenges. Balancing a full-time job with content creation is tough, but the support and encouragement from my friends, fellow collectors and followers keep me going. I’ve learned the importance of consistency, authenticity, and imagination. The next video idea is always right around the corner (or in a blind box!).

Ultimately, I want the world to know that toys aren’t just for kids. They can be a source of happiness, inspiration, and connection for people of all ages. My goal is to share my love for toys and create a space where people who love toys can come together and celebrate their shared passion.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
We’d spend our week eating, hunting for toys, and just relaxing around the city! It’ll be chill, but definitely new and exciting. Here are my Los Angeles favs.

We’d definitely hit up these food spots because to me, they’re my LA musts.
• Breakfast: Sqirl (try the The Latke-Tot please!). Bonus mention, don’t miss Belle’s Bagels in Highland Park. They don’t mess around.
• Lunch: Pine + Crane in Downtown Los Angeles, their popcorn chicken is addictive.
• Dinner: Quarters Korean BBQ. I’d eat here everyday if I could. Also, don’t sleep on Andre’s Italian Restaurant on Wilshire. I’ve been coming here since I was kid and nothing beats it.
• Dessert: Pazzo Gelato on Sunset. Rotating flavors, iconic neighborhood gelato stop, and best gelato in town! We’ll stop by every day.

Can’t miss the toy stores right?
• Kouhigh Toys on Melrose – they’ve got everything you can dream of. Blind boxes, plushies, a toy trading table, and the nicest staff you’ll ever meet!
• POP MART at Century City – I love it here so much (and they even have a blind box vending machine). Don’t miss it, the interiors are beautiful too!
• Q POP in Little Tokyo – This is designer toy heaven. Tucked away in the Little Akihabara alley, you’ll find the stuff of dreams here!

Lastly, a few hang out spots:
• Griffith Observatory – A chill afternoon here escaping the heat and staring at the stars. Nothing’s better.
• Neutra VDL Studio and Residences – This place is so aesthetic, I wish I could live here. Take the tour and get your design inspiration fix!
• Will Rogers Beach – Let’s pack some sandwiches and just relax in the sun. Don’t forget the sunscreen!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I want to give a huge shout out to my parents, my grandma, my sister Dru, my best friend Kimia, and to Jon & Ian. Thank you all for always for supporting me through the years. I wouldn’t be the person I am today without you all, and I am so grateful for everything.

Website: https://linktr.ee/derrycake

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/derrycake

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYA3zeVU9puFbPyR7kK4RKQ

Other: Email: contactderrycake@gmail.com

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.