About Me
My cake mission
My very first endeavour, which went out into the public, was a series of mini-cakes I made as thank you gifts for a number of work colleagues. Creating something personal, as a gift, is usually perceived as more special than just ‘going shopping’. I felt that buying something for them could be a little random and impersonal. If you hand over something beautiful, or quirky, or particular-to-the-recipient in some way (even the simple act of piping someone’s name on a cake) it makes it special: it makes them feel that this was created, from concept to completion, specifically for them, and is not just a generic gift that could be for, or from, anyone. Their reactions were unexpectedly fabulous; they were so enamoured of the time and effort that had gone in, and incredibly appreciative of the small personal touches, which indicated that the time and effort in question had been put in, to create something exclusively for them. People appreciate that.
Right from the beginning, this absolutely became the best part of the process for me, and my motivation hasn’t changed much since then: from the anticipation of, to the actual, responses the cake receives when the client first sees it. As with most things, the sight of it is the first impression it is going to make: this should cause an initial reaction of pleasure in and of itself. The process and product have to be a combination of adhering to the client’s requirements, but ultimately surpassing their expectations, in order to achieve the desired response. The range of pleasure, astonishment, amusement, delight and surprise caused, is just amazing, and as a result, I have determined to rearrange my schedule whenever possible, in order to be present myself, when each cake is collected or delivered. The ‘reveal’ is just a lovely moment, and I want to be there to enjoy it too. Of course I want to create a product that tastes delicious, and that people love to eat ... but it’s definitely more than that.
Where I am
I am based in Leeds, West Yorkshire , but have made and delivered cakes for clients much further afield. Cakes can be personally delivered, or collected by you. Delivery may be subject to a delivery charge.
What I Offer
Cakeheads offers a personal design service, which always endeavors to create an end product exceeding the expectations of the client. Attention to detail is key. This is where the charm lies; where the humble cake becomes a thing of beauty or entertainment, and is remembered for years to come.
There are many alternatives nowadays to allow cakeheads everywhere the luxury of treating themselves, and other people, on a semi-regular basis. A celebration cake, for a specific occasion, is a popular choice, but there doesn’t have to be a specific occasion to justify a beautiful and delicious cake! Mini-cakes make a lovely present: go for a gift box of simple colour-palette and design, or something a little more quirky (see ‘Maisie in Plantpot’ and ‘Little Shop of Horrors’ in the Mini-cakes Gallery). Cupcakes are also a favourite, as they offer just a modest ‘slice’ of indulgence. They also have a dual appeal: cupcakes can be just as charming, just as stunning, and create just as much impact, as a more traditional cake. But there is a much simpler appeal to cupcakes: I’m sure the cupcake is most children’s very first venture in the kitchen, and is consequently executed with a great deal of care and pride. It can, therefore, also hold a great deal of warmth, comfort and nostalgia for most adults. Whatever the occasion, even a non-occasion, cupcakes have the power to charm and delight everybody.
Obviously, it’s not all about the way it looks: it is cake after all, and is meant to be eaten and enjoyed. The basics are, of course, on offer, and remain an absolute favourite: you can’t go wrong with fruitcake, or vanilla or chocolate sponge. However, it is a little more de rigueur to throw in some more unusual flavours, ingredients, and combinations nowadays, so if you have a penchant for something in particular, just ask!
Special dietary requirements can also be accommodated, as it is becoming much easier these days to cater to the widening variety of diets and preferences people have. Gluten-free, eggless, diabetic … I also offer a range of cakes that you may not ever think to request, but taste just as delicious and offer some other benefits along the way …
The more notice you give, the better! At least two weeks notice is required (although I will, if I can, consider less than that in desperate circumstances!)