Once a month, I’ll be putting the spotlight on an emerging creative talent, giving them the chance to talk about their craft, share their experiences and provide a platform for people to see their work. I’ll be talking to filmmakers, writers, designers and bloggers, asking what inspired them to create their products, how they they plan to build their business and, of course, about their favourite things.
This month the spotlight is on Ruth Allanson from Heavenly Cupcakes, a bespoke custom cupcake and celebration cake service offering imaginative and creative cakes for a range of occassions.
Name: Ruth Allanson
Age: 30
Profession: Managing consultant for a Recruitment firm by day, Cake maker by night!
Location: Bristol
Do you remember the moment when you decided that this was what you want to do?
What did you study and where?
One year’s teacher training and then a full undergraduate degree in Psychology. Both at Bristol University West of England.
It certainly is! Facebook has been the most powerful tool and is full of really inspiring cake companies and home bakers to get advice and ideas from.
Where do you get your inspiration from?
There are some amazing cake makers out there and I love trawling through people’s work. Pinterest is also fantastic for inspiration. The best inspiration is through the people that want their cakes. I’ve had some really whacky ideas which have been so much fun putting into a cake.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to work in your area?
Practice and experiment, ask advice from anyone willing to give it and have fun tasting your creations!! It’s one of those industries where you’re always learning. Youtube is great for learning new techniques and there are plenty of cake forums and groups on Facebook.
What are your career plans for the next year?
Work as hard as I can to pay for my wedding in March!
Pretty dresses
What is your favourite…
Kill Bill! (Bet you weren’t expecting that from a pink and glittery loving cake maker!)
Book?
I used to love the ‘Flowers in the Attic’ books by Virginia Andrews when I was younger. I must have read each one four or five times! Recent books I have loved are the Hunger Games trilogy and the Night Circus.
Pinterest!
Shop?
Yumi for clothes, ‘Kitchen’ for cake stuff.