Shannon Star is the owner of Layered Bake Shop, an all natural custom bake shop and cake design studio specializing in custom-designed cakes for weddings and special occasions! In March of 2012 Layered Bake Shop moved to downtown historic Mckinney in one of the most charming spaces we’ve seen in a while. Read Shannon’s interview below:
Q: What inspired you to start Layered Bake Shop?
A: I grew up with a love for baking and art and 2008 I made a cake for a friends baby shower that involved both those things, it was love at first sight! A few years later an opportunity appeared to turn my dreams into reality. Having this bakery allows me to combine both my love for art and baking.
Q: Layered Bake Shop has a sweet tagline: eat. cake. love. What does that tagline mean to you?
A: Our tagline is the very simple essence of Layered Bake Shop. I would have people try my cake and they loved it so the words just fell into place.
Q: What is the process for designing wedding cakes? Do most brides come with ideas in mind or is it a collaborative effort?
A: I honestly think I have the best brides! Most of them come to me for my style and designs. They fully trust me to take their ideas and styles and created a one of a kind design for them. I have to say this is my most favorite part of what I do.
Q: So what is the difference between a custom-style bakery like Layered Bake Shop and a bakery that mass produces their cakes?
A: I personally design and decorate each cake myself. I limit myself to three weddings a weekend. I think each one deserves the time and effort it takes to make these one of a kind creations
Q: What are some unique items you use for decorating cakes? Do you offer cake flags or banners?
A: I do offer cake flags and banners and the remaining decor on my cakes are completely edible. I feel it’s very important to give a couple a beautiful cake where they can eat everything on it. I have used items such as cameo brooches, strings of pearls, and even a wedding dress to replicate on a cake.
Q: What are your favorite cake fillings?
A: White chocolate mousse with fresh strawberries, that’s tied with our Mocha Buttercream.
Q: Do you do anything special for the traditional top tier?
A: I always offer a free top tier replica on the bride and groom’s first anniversary.
Q: Are there any trends you’ve seen lately in custom wedding cakes (style, flavor, new concepts)?
A: Trends are changing all the time and I love the creativity that this allows me to practice. I have found that brides are wanting to combine more that one flavor in a cake tier. People are also looking for a visual effect inside there cakes too.
* Photography and Interview by BEN Q. PHOTOGRAPHY.
