Made in Chelsea star Binky Felstead has been criticised after a luxury bakery owner shared screenshots allegedly from her PA requesting a free birthday cake for her youngest son in exchange for an Instagram story. Bakery owner Reshmi Bennett posted online: 'Unfortunately, our energy supplier is very old-fashioned and continues to insist on being paid in actual money, rather than exposure or engagement.'
Social media users joined the outcry, with one writing: 'Pay for the cake… you can afford it.' Another called it 'insane' that wealthy influencers receive so many freebies. However, some defended Felstead, arguing that businesses often offer free gifts in exchange for exposure.
Additional claims have emerged about historic requests from Felstead's team, including free invites and stationery for her 2022 wedding, and complimentary cakes in 2021. An upholsterer also shared a screengrab of an email allegedly from Felstead's interior designer asking for free blinds for her children's rooms.
A source told heat that Felstead, 35, is 'terrified of being cancelled' and feels she has a 'target on her back'. The source said: 'She feels it's totally unfair. All the celebrities with a big social media followings get freebies – she doesn't understand why she's the one in the firing line.'
The insider added that Felstead is being advised to avoid taking gifts that require social media posts, and that she has spoken to crisis PRs. 'She can see how it can get out of hand, especially when it's a small business. The last thing Binky wants to do is upset anyone,' the source said.
