Sensational Cakes

What is your business?

Sensational Cakes and Desserts specializes in meticulously crafted bespoke cakes made to order. Our expertise lies in creating cakes for weddings, birthdays, baby showers, corporate events, and other special occasions. With almost a decade of experience, we take pride in our exceptional customer service and commitment to quality. We are UK Top100 Small Business and also finalists in the Small Awards’ Britain's Best Small Business - Sole Trader Category. Additionally, we are a guest contributor to the esteemed Cake Masters Magazine. Our homemade bespoke cakes are made with fresh ingredients from Totton Southampton and continue to satisfy taste buds(and hungry bellies) across the nation.

How did you get started?

From a young age, I loved spending time in the kitchen with my mum, which sparked my initial love for cooking. The idea of Sensational Cakes and Desserts started back in 2016, when I tried to turn my passion for baking into a thriving business while studying an accountant degree at the University. Recognising the lack of authentic, delicious, and visually stunning cakes in the UK, I launched in the UK in January 2023, determined to fill that gap and bring a touch of sweetness to people’s lives. My journey was not without its challenges; I learned through trial and error, from one wasted cake batter to the another. Yet, these experiences only served to perfect my skills and refine my unique taste, which has become unmatched in the industry. My customers can attest to the exceptional quality and flavour of my creations.

How did you hear about SWEF and what led you to apply for a grant?

An afternoon of Google search for funding to meet the increase demand for my products led me to the SWEF website. After carefully reading the eligibility criteria and the testimonials from other awardees, I immediately put in my application. And as the saying goes, the rest is history.

How did the grant help you develop your business?

The grant has helped my business meet the increasing demand by providing funds to purchase industrial equipment which has reduced our expenses and streamlined our operations. It has also enhanced our profit margins.

How have you seen your finances change since you received the grant?

The business finances have improved significantly since we received the grant. For example, cake decorating materials that we would usually outsource to third party vendors can now be created in house using our Cricut machine, which we purchased with the grant. Also, speed of production has also increased with the acquisition of the industrial mixer. Taken together, we anticipate an increase in turnover which will expedite the business’s trajectory towards profitability.

How else might you have funded investment in your business?

Funding would have been from my personal savings and reinvesting any profits made back into the business.

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Where do you see your business in a years time?

In a year’s time, we anticipate that Sensational Cakes and Desserts will see an increase brand visibility, making our delectable products accessible to more customers. We plan to introduce new product lines that cater to diverse dietary needs and preferences, including vegan, gluten-free, and sugar-free options. By staying attuned to market trends and customer feedback, we will continuously refine our offerings to ensure they meet the highest standards of taste and quality. Enhancing the customer experience will be a priority in the coming year. We will do this through improved product packaging, personalized customer service, loyalty programs, and interactive workshops will foster a deeper connection with our clientele. By creating memorable experiences, we aim to build a loyal customer base that advocates for our brand.

Anything else you want to share?

Yesterday (2ndDecember), I had the incredible honour of being invited to the UK House of Lords at The Palace of Westminster, where I had the opportunity to network with fellow small business owners, members of Parliament, government trade and business reps. The invite was to celebrate my home bakery business Sensational Cakes and Desserts being listed among the UK's Top 100 Small Businesses.

I was joined by Sir Julian Lewis, MP of New Forest East where my business is located. He was kind enough to show me around the historic building and granted me access to view the debate in the House of Commons on Housing, Community, and Local Government.

I also had enriching conversations with Anne Tyrer Vice President UK Corporate Affairs and Communications at American Express, who have been supporting small businesses in the UK for over 12 years! Small businesses like Sensational Cakes and Desserts are the backbone of our community, particularly in Southampton City Council and New Forest District Council regions. As a young female small business owner from a minority ethnic background, I am reassured by the tremendous support available in the United Kingdom.

A heartfelt thank you to Michelle Ovens CBE from Small Business Saturday UK, Jacqui Scott MCIOF from SWEF and the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Community Foundation (HIWCF), and all my colleagues at the Southampton City Council for supporting me and other small businesses in South Coast and across the UK.