Nusirat is the perfect example of someone reaching a point in their life where they know they need to stop everything they are doing that is not contributing to their dreams, and start living the life they want. I am always amazed by stories of women leaving solid jobs – that are paying the bills, but not making them happy – for a career that fills them with joy and passion, even if it means an uncertain future. I’ve really loved learning Nusirat’s story, and am inspired by her courage. Not to mention — those peacock cakes!!! I can’t wait to watch her business, Dessert & Co,  grow!

 

How did you get started in your business?

I’ve been baking for as long as I can remember and it’s what I love to do. As a kid, I loved baking cakes and cookies on the weekends with my mom. After college I got a job in Research and development. My mind would wander off to what I’ll bake in the weekends. I started making birthday cakes and baby shower cakes for friends and family and soon I had more request. I left my job in 2015 and enrolled at Bonnie Gordon School of Confectionary Arts in Toronto for their Designer Cakes Certificate Program. Afterwards, I started up my cake business and it’s been a blast so far.

How do you describe your style and favorite work?

My style is very feminine, cute and a little whimsical. I love playing with colors and painting on cakes. One of my favorite cake till date is the nursery rhyme themed cake. The client loves collecting nursery rhymes and wanted a cake that illustrated one of her favorite ones. So I painted a scene of Jack and Jill falling down a hill. I was happy she gave me a creative control and it turned out great.

How do you stay inspired? What do you do when you are in a creative rut?

I feel inspired everywhere I go. When I see an object or color I think of how I can incorporate it into a cake.  When I’m in a rut, I stop obsessing over the general issue and occupy myself with things I’ve wanted to do but didn’t have time. Right after I got an assignment on a wedding cake, the client wanted a peacock themed cake, I had no idea what to do, so I took a break and went shopping. It was while I was at it that I came up with an idea of a 2D design to make the peacock.

What is your favorite part of your work?

I love the blank canvas stage, before I put everything together, the possibilities are endless.

How do you love to serve your clients?

My job is to surpass my client’s expectations. I ask them a questions concerning the event, what theme they chose, their color schemes, number of guest etc. Then I make a sketch of the cake and we go from there. I make sure that they are satisfied with all the details before I design the cake.

If you had one tip for a bride, what would it be?

Book early. I prefer my clients order a cake three to six months in advance of their big day. A lot of time and work goes into making a custom wedding cake. Also, book the venue before meeting the baker. I always ask my clients to bring a photo of the hall to see the actual size, that way the specifics help me design you an appropriate cake.

 

 

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