Good day my distinguished bakers and cake lovers. Your girl is here again representing the entire cast and and crew of 24/7 Naija cake affiars…( don’t mind me and my playlet mood). Seriously today is special because we had a chat with a special person in the cake industry. This woman is beautiful both in looks, character and of course creativity. Ladies and gentlemen! coming on air on today’s special segment of the Naija Bakers’ Diary is Mrs Itohan Asibor, Creative Director and CEO of Bluberry Cakes!!
Today she lets us into her world of cake-making as a profession and the journey so far. Dear house, lets get to hear straight from her!
May we know your name and Business name and where you are based?
My names are Mrs. Itohan Asibor. I am the C.E.O and Head of Creativity, Bluberry Cakes, a Premium Custom Cake and Dessert company. We currently operate from our cake shop at No 4 Marian Ali Street, Asaba, Delta State.
When (the year) did you start this Cake Biz?
Bluberry Cakes started up as a home-based business in 2004. We opened our first Cake Shop in 2009.
What are the things that prompted you to start up your Cake Biz as in How your love for cake decorating started?
Baking and Cake Decorating came naturally to me. I have been baking for family and friends from way back my secondary school days, but I actually started up commercially through the encouragement from a dear friend to take my passion into another level.
What was the first official job you remembered making as a Cake designer and how did you feel then?
Can’t really remember my first official job, but I remember the first Novelty cake I made for a client, it was way back 2009. It was a high heeled shoe made out of gum paste. I had never done anything like that before, but I took on the challenge and the result was spectacular. I remember I had to buy and take apart a fairly used shoe to create my templates. I also remember the first wedding cake I made, I was nervous about the presentation, but it turned out fine.
Can you tell us your greatest challenges in the Cake Biz or the ups and downs you have faced as a Cake designer?
My greatest challenge in running a cake business right now is the inconsistency in the quality of materials and unavailability of some specialist premium ingredients in the country. Power supply is also a constant struggle.
What’s your greatest cake decorating triumph?
Every cake decorating challenge I undertake and conquer is a triumph for me.
How would you describe your decorating style?
I enjoy creating elegant and colorful cakes. I would describe my style as modern and elegant.
What favourite Cakes do you enjoy baking and decorating and also the favourite colours you love working with?
I love making wedding cakes and desserts. My favorite colours to work with are Red, Black Metallics and White.
What are the benefits (gains) you have reaped as a Cake designer or your greatest achievements?
My greatest achievements so far are the various people I now know through my work and the wonderful friends and colleagues I have met along the way.
A lot of people shy off cakes for health reasons and avoiding sugar. Are there options for these classes of people?
For people who have dietary considerations, alternatives abound. We have Gluten free, Sugar free and low carb cakes. The important thing in enjoying a cake is to know that A cake symbolizes love and like they say “There is love in sharing”. Portion control is an important consideration.
What would you say is one of the biggest lessons you have learnt in your career as a cake designer?
One of the biggest lessons I have learnt as a cake designer is to always plan. The best cakes are a result of careful planning and execution. Quality cannot be rushed
What’s your most treasured piece of cake decorating tool or kit?
My turntable and my palette knife are tools I cannot do without.
What’s your advice to upcoming cake designers in the Nigerian Cake Industry?
My advice to upcoming bakers is to be patient, take time to learn the ropes; Aspire to be the best in what you are good at and resist the temptation to cut corners. Constantly update your skills and never be too proud to ask for help.
