The Cake Designer - Cameo Cakes

Q. How did you get in to the cake business, and how was Cameo Cakes created?

A. In 1978 I took a cake decorating class with the intention of making cakes for my family’s birthdays. Thirty years and thousands of cakes later, I have turned my “hobby” in to a full-time business that I truly enjoy. I don’t know of any other profession where people give you a big hug for doing a good job!

Q. What outrageous cake ideas have couples brought to you?

A. The most unusual wedding cake I have done looked like a big open book of fairytales. Many brides get more creative with the groom’s cake. We have requests for guitars, fire helmets, Arkansas Razorbacks, and the ever popular armadillo! The sky is the limit! If you dream it, I can make it happen!

Q. What are the most popular cake flavors?

A. My most popular flavor is white cake with raspberry filling. For chocolate lovers, we make an excellent peanut butter filling and a chocolate ganache that is to die for!

Q. Are there any ways to cut cost or be ever so slightly more frugal when ordering a wedding cake?

A. The best way to cut cost is to have a slightly smaller version of the cake that you love and then supplement with sheet cakes. This is a great way to have the cake of your dreams and not blow your budget.

Q. What are some common mistakes couples make when ordering their cake?

A. Some couples worry too much about what others may or may not like and put aside their own preferences. My advice? Please yourselves! It’s your special day!

Don’t compromise your ideas or give up your vision for your cake. And if you find a cake decorator who tries to modify your vision too much, keep looking until you find someone who is willing and capable of working with you. Don’t give in; just continue looking until you find what you are looking for to make your dream come true.

From a technical standpoint, make sure that your cake decorator has all of the necessary certifications from the county health department. A reputable baker will meet the guidelines necessary to maintain a legitimate business.

Q. What is the best way to keep a portion of your cake stored to enjoy on your one-year anniversary?

A. Most brides that I see now are not keeping the top tier of the cake for their one-year anniversary. It seems to be a tradition that most couples are moving away from. But if it is something that you still want to do, I would suggest that you place the cake in an airtight container (not a cake box), and store it in a deep freeze – NOT A REFRIGERATOR FREEZER! 

Q. When should a new bride begin making appointments with cake decorations?

A. If you are planning a wedding between May and October, you should begin making appointments approximately six months in advance. It’s always a good idea to choose and secure your vendors as quickly as possible; however, don’t assume that one is not going to be available just because you may have waited until the last minute. It never hurts to ask!