Our ACDN Member of the Month for October is
Nerissa Galloway of Dotty’s Kitchen
When did you start cake decorating?
I started decorating at 16 and my youngest brother was two, I used to make his birthday cakes. I used the Australian Women’s Weekly cake books for my inspiration.
When did you start your cake decorating business, and how did you make the change from cake decorating as a hobby to a business?
I registered my business in 2013 when I started getting asked to make cakes for people other than family and friends. I researched what I needed to do with regards to council registration made sure I was ready to go.
What is the most enjoyable part of running your cake decorating business?
I love the book keeping…. snort, not really, my favourite part is the reaction from my clients when they see what I have made for them.
Could you share some tips with others who are considering starting out in cake decorating?
Practice and experiment, watch lots of tutorials or take classes if you can. Research what is required of you to sell cakes in your area, speak to your local council. The best thing I did however, and I promise I’m not brown-nosing, was become a member of the Australian Cake Decorating Network. I’ve gained so much knowledge from other members, been able to ask questions and workshop issues I’ve been having, get inspiration, made new and amazing friends, and most importantly feel supported in what is quite a solitary job.
Have you taken many cake decorating courses, and if so, which was your favourite and why?
I have learned most of what I know from books, trial and error and in the last few years from YouTube and Craftsy. My first actual class was when I went to ACDN Cake Camp in 2016. Classes are addictive and I’ve been to quite a few since then. My favourite cake classes have been with Handi, Sachiko Windbiel and Katherine Sabbath and my only cookie class has been with Julia Day. I’m really looking forward to Stevi Auble in 2018.
Who is your cake idol?
There are too many to mention, all for different reasons. If my arm was being twisted I’d say Stevi Auble for her wafer flowers, Carlos Lischetti, Zoe’s Fancy Cakes, and Crumb Avenue by Agnes for their modelling work, Adelaide’s own Amanda Lee for her bold use of colour and design, and dozens more.
