This weekend I had the pleasure to talk with the owner of A Cake Come True. Lisa Herrera not only exceeds her client’s expectations with her unique cakes, but ensures each cake has the special “wow factor” for the big day. Here are some of the question and answers we discussed giving an inside look at the life of owner of A Cake Come True, Lisa.
Why cakes (instead of other baked goods)?
Gourmet cakes allow for creativity and freedom. I don’t consider myself a baker, I’m more of a cake artist. The ability to create a unique cake for each client, keeps things interesting
Favorite type (flavor and design) of cake to bake?
My personal favorite cake is lemon cake with blueberry filling. Honestly I just love everything lemon! As for design, putting the time in, and adding the fine details really pays off and ensures that every cake looks like an edible piece of art. By thinking outside the box you can make any real life object an edible product.
What is the most popular cake?
The cake style and flavors vary with each client. I try to give the client an endless list of flavor options and styles. I try to color outside the lines and create a bold piece for every client’s desire.
Weirdest cake mishap?
I have been lucky enough to not have had a mishap, so far. Knock on wood. Once I even flew a cake out to Virginia and checked it as baggage. I use a special cake carrier that allows a 6-tier cake to be transferred effortlessly.
Favorite cake you have ever made?
It’s hard to choose my favorite cake. The most special cake I’ve eve
r made was a three feet tall Pinkalicious (character from a children’s book) for my daughter’s 7th birthday. The next year she passed away. I will remain the
most special cake I’ve ever made. Although the Pinkalicious is the closest to my heart, there is another cake that also is very special to me. I donated a cake to a 5 year old little boy recently with stage 4 cancer. I recreated his favorite toy blocks. So that cake has a special place in my heart.
Favorite part of being a gourmet cake baker? Biggest challenge?
The most enjoyable part of being a cake artist is probably also the most challenging. 99% of the cakes I have created, have never been created before. I never duplicate a cake. I’m constantly pushing the limits. The best part is seeing the “dream come true” when it is completed.
What does it take to be apart of a successful business? How does the system run smoothly?
The key to success comes with dedication to the craft. You constantly have to continue to learn new things and mold to new requests. Being a one man show, working hard and until it is done right is necessary for the system to run smooth.
Number of years in the business?
I have worked 9 years in the business and I’ve loved every second of it!
How do you juggle your social and business life?
My family is so supportive, it’s normally a night and weekend job which is sometimes not always preferable but my family really helps me juggle the two. Its really just the nature of the beast. Those who are close to me support my passion.
What do you for fun?
I love the nature Boulder has to offer. I enjoy hiking and spendi
ng time with my family. Even on my free time I love working on projects with cake. When working with clients my main goal is to satisfy my client. On my free time alike to explore new cake ideas and have the freedom to do as I wish.
Check out Lisa’s upcoming project. Online classes available to anyone who would like to learn. The online platform is available at http://www.queenbeebaker.com or http://www.acakecometrue.com.
Sarah Lurie, June 2nd 2016
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