“A person who creates art. A person who makes and creates art as an occupation”
— DEFINITION OF 'ARTIST'
Your wedding day is one of the most cherished and unforgettable moments of your life, and it deserves to be celebrated in grand style. Among the many aspects that contribute to the magic of a wedding is the wedding cake – a symbol of joy, love, and sweetness. However, when it comes to selecting the right person to create this masterpiece, you may find yourself pondering over the choice between a “Cake Maker” and a “Cake Designer.” Let’s delve into the definitions of “Artist” to uncover the distinction between these two roles.
Is there a difference between a Cake Maker & a Cake Designer?
The word “Artist” evokes images of creatives pouring their heart and soul into their craft, transcending ordinary forms to create something extraordinary. Renowned painter Pablo Picasso once said, “Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once he grows up.” This statement highlights the essence of an artist – someone who sustains that innate sense of wonder, curiosity, and passion in their chosen domain.
The Cake Maker...
...or the Cake Designer?
A Cake Maker is an expert in the art of baking delectable confections. With skillful hands and a keen eye for detail, they create cakes that tantalize taste buds and leave guests craving for more. The Cake Maker excels in baking scrumptious sponges, infusing them with flavors that blend harmoniously, and adorning them with luscious fillings and frostings.
Famous pastry chef Christina Tosi once remarked, “I’m not a cake decorator, I’m a cake maker.” This statement succinctly captures the primary focus of a Cake Maker – they emphasize the culinary aspect of the cake, concentrating on taste, texture, and overall flavor profile. Their artistic flair lies in combining ingredients to craft a mouthwatering masterpiece.
A Cake Designer, on the other hand, is an artist who creates edible masterpieces that mesmerize the eyes as much as they delight the taste buds. They are well-versed in the principles of design and aesthetics, and their canvas is a cake waiting to come to life.
Leonardo da Vinci once defined an artist as, “A painter should begin every canvas with a wash of black, because all things in nature are dark except where exposed by the light.” Similarly, a Cake Designer begins with a vision – understanding the couple’s personality, theme, and desires to design a cake that reflects their unique love story.
While a Cake Maker focuses on the culinary aspects, the Cake Designer takes it a step further, focusing on the artistry of presentation. They skillfully mold fondant, create intricate sugar flowers, and implement innovative techniques like hand-painting to transform cakes into awe-inspiring centerpieces.
Selecting between a Cake Maker and a Cake Designer ultimately depends on your preferences and priorities. If you envision your guests relishing each bite of a scrumptious cake, a Cake Maker with a talent for blending flavors might be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you yearn for a visually stunning showstopper that doubles as an art piece, a Cake Designer can weave magic into the very fabric of your cake.
However, it’s essential to remember that the best creators often blur the lines between these roles, possessing both exceptional baking skills and artistic prowess. Before making a decision, explore the portfolio of potential candidates to find someone who aligns with your vision and resonates with your style.
In the realm of wedding cakes, both Cake Makers and Cake Designers are artists in their own right. While the Cake Maker’s artistry lies in crafting delightful flavors, the Cake Designer’s creativity shines through the visual appeal of the confection. Whether you opt for mouthwatering delicacies or captivating edible art, what truly matters is that the cake symbolizes your love and joy on this momentous occasion.
Remember, “Every artist was first an amateur.” So, let your wedding cake be a canvas for an artist to create something that will forever be etched in your memory, just like the memories of your beautiful wedding day.
So aren’t a cake designer and a cake maker just one in the same?
In my view, NO – a cake designer is a person who creates cake art, and yes, they are also technically a cake maker but they are not just a cake maker.
I consider myself to be a ‘cake artist’ – I create edible art. Yes, I am a pretty good cake maker and pâtissier too, but I don’t just whip up a Victoria sponge and pop a bit of jam and buttercream in it. My designs and flavours are carefully planned and designed, meticulously executed, perfectly decorated and beautifully presented. From start to finish, I put a lot of love and care into the whole process of designing and making a cake and I only make one or two wedding cakes per week maximum, so I can make sure my exacting standards of presentation are not compromised.
Image Credits in order:
@blonde.shot
@laurawadephotography
@jennyappletonphotoandfilm
@warethe_jamess
@safinasmithphotography