We can’t think of anything better than a blog post dedicated to the wonderful world of all things cake related - so, of course, we reached out to Daria.

Otherwise known as the epic human behind CakeLabNZ (Featherston based cakery), Daria is a cake artist and baker, specialising in wedding and birthday cakes, as well as delectable wee treats (um, hello macarons!). If you’ve ever wondered where to start when it comes to wedding cakes - Daria is here to help. We asked her for some wise words of advice - and, some drool-worthy photos too, of course!

SO TELL US - WHERE DID IT ALL BEGIN?

I studied Russian philology and literature back in Russia, and I used to work as a journalist and a copywriter. I’ve always had a passion for cooking and baking, as well as creating things using my hands, but never took it seriously. I always tried new recipes and plated even simple meals nicely. My friends kept telling me that I should open my own cafe… and when my first macarons turned out almost perfect - it made me start thinking.

When four years ago we moved to NZ - I thought, this is a perfect opportunity to use my talents and start in hospitality. I went to the local bakery and told them about my passion, but they only offered me a front of house position. I took it. The baker taught me all the basics and I then started my job as a baker.

Of course over all that time I’ve learned a lot by myself - reading articles, watching videos, experimenting in my kitchen. After taking an online cake making and decorating course, I had enough self-confidence to offer my service to people.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE THING ABOUT YOUR JOB?

All of it! I enjoy baking and creating new flavours the most. Other days I can spend hours making little details to decorate a cake. And of course, I like customers’ reactions when they see the cakes!

WHAT’S TRENDING WITH CAKES AT THE MOMENT

That’s a hard question. While everyone makes crazy looking, colorful cakes, with incredible flower piping, isomalt stone decorating, realistic sugar flowers or icing covering, I just make what I like. I follow great cake artists and always try new things, but I aim to keep it more stylish and delicious than “trending”.

WHAT ARE YOUR TOP THREE PIECES OF ADVICE FOR COUPLES PLANNING THEIR WEDDING?

1. Order on time. Some couples order a particular design of a cake a year before the wedding, but your taste, mood, and actually, everything can change. And of course don’t leave it to the last moment. (“I need three tier cake for next week!” - “love” those orders!)

2. When choosing a cake - pay attention to taste, as well as the look. Often you’ll see a stunning three tier cake - with absolutely tasteless and dry inner.

3. If you’re not sure - leave the job to specialists. Tell us your tastes, thoughts and feelings - and we’ll help you to make a choice.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE CAKE YOU’VE EVER MADE FOR A WEDDING?

I like almost all the cakes I make!

I made this log wedding cake for Featherston Expo last year. I’ve always wanted to try this design… so I made it for the expo! But people still love a simple white semi-naked cake for weddings.