Your West Midlands Wedding- Page number 52 - June/July 2021 (Issue 74)

MEET JACKIE DIAMOND FROM JACKIE DIAMOND CAKE DESIGN 07974 041 934 | www.facebook.com/jackiediamondcakes Q – Tell us about your background – how did you become a cake maker? My cake journey started early. I have always loved baking and spent hours with my mum, nan and aunts making all sorts of delicious treats. I got married nine years ago and decided to make my own wedding cake with the help of my aunt, Margaret, which was the start of my journey. I started out making birthday bakes but soon moved onto weddings, which I love. Then seven years ago, I gave up my job as a law clerk to make cakes full time. I can honestly say it was the best thing I’ve ever done. I’ve met some wonderful people over the years, and I get to do something that I really enjoy. Q – What’s your favourite part of the job? There’s so much I enjoy about my job, but my favourite part is meeting all the couples and helping them bring their dream cake to life. Q – What should couples expect when booking your services? I aim to take the stress out of choosing a cake and provide couples with a personal service from start to finish. Upon booking, they are supplied with a sample box, that way they can enjoy them at their leisure. I am available to answer any queries or questions by phone or email and to offer advice as required. A consultation is arranged approximately three to four months before the big day, at this stage, the design and flavours can be finalised and a sketch will be provided. I will then arrange with the venue for delivery and staging on the day. Q – What’s your favourite wedding cake that you’ve made and why? This is a difficult one, but I would have to go with the Harry Potter -themed cake that I made for a lovely couple several years ago. Normally Harry Potter has quite bold colours, but liking it to be different, I made it in pastels with lots of detail hand embossed on the tiers. Q – How long before the wedding should couples book? Once the couple has confirmed their date and venue, it’s the best time to book, even if your wedding is 12 to 18 months away. It’s important to get booked in with a cake maker as soon as possible to secure your date. Designs and flavours can be finalised at the consultation three to four months before, and by then, you will have a clear idea of your theme and colours. Q – Do you have any top tips for couples looking for a cake maker? My top tip for couples looking for a cake maker is to visit local wedding fairs where you can meet suppliers in person and have the opportunity to chat over your ideas, budget, availability, and you’ll also have the opportunity to see their work and sample some of their bakes. Afterwards, you can check out the ones you like on social media and read their reviews. You can also ask friends and recent brides for word-of-mouth recommendations. 52