We were lucky to catch up with Tejanique Gibbs recently and have shared our conversation below.

Tejanique, appreciate you joining us today. So, let’s start with trends – what are some of the largest or more impactful trends you are seeing in the industry?

In the cake industry, a major trend is the rise of personalized, highly creative cake designs made accessible through advanced tools and techniques, including 3D printing, edible imaging, and even social media inspiration. This trend has revolutionized how bakers approach their craft and how customers interact with their baked goods. One of my most unforgettable cakes was for a customer’s 19th birthday. They requested a star-shaped, red and black, Bratz-themed cake-a bold design that combined nostalgia with glam. What made this especially unique was that I used whipped icing instead of buttercream, which required extra precision to bring their vision to life.
The first challenge was creating the star shape. I baked a larger cake and carefully carved the star, ensuring the points were clean and stable. Then came the decoration. Using whipped icing, I blended deep red and black tones to achieve the striking contrast the customer wanted. Whipped icing can be tricky to work with for sharp details, but by layering and smoothing with precision, I managed to create a flawless surface. To capture the Bratz aesthetic, I piped intricate designs and added edible details like shimmering glitter and bright red glitter cherries. Instead of the usual Bratz logo, I used a hand picked (by the customer) bratz photo with a cheetah print background.
The result was a cake that perfectly embodied the edgy, glamorous vibe of Bratz. The customer was overjoyed, telling me it wasn’t just a cake-it was a centerpiece that tied the entire party together. Seeing their excitement made all the effort worth it.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

My name is TK, and I’m a passionate baker specializing in custom cakes that make celebrations unforgettable. Baking started as a hobby while juggling college, a full-time job, and the chaos of everyday life. Over time, it evolved into something much more-a creative outlet and a way to bring joy to others.
I love working with clients to create unique cakes that are not just desserts but centerpieces that tell a story. I create custom cakes tailored to each client’s vision, whether it’s for birthdays, anniversaries, weddings, or just because. From classic designs to bold, themed creations, I strive to make every cake as special as the occasion it’s celebrating. One of my specialties is using whipped icing instead of fondant, which many clients prefer for its light, creamy texture and delicious flavor. think what sets me apart is the balance I bring between creativity and personalization. I pay attention to every detail, no matter if it’s edible or not. I also understand the importance of making cakes that taste as good as they look. I focus on creating cakes that are as light and flavorful as they are beautiful. My clients know they’re getting a cake that everyone will want to go back for seconds on. Baking, for me, isn’t just about making cakes-it’s about creating memories. I work closely with my clients to ensure every design reflects their personality, story, and vision. Whether it’s a small, intimate gathering or a big celebration, I want the cake to be something they’ll never forget.
If you’re looking for a cake that’s personal, creative, and delicious, l’d love to work with you.

Can you tell us about what’s worked well for you in terms of growing your clientele?

For me, word-of-mouth has been the most effective strategy for growing my clientele. Every cake I create is a reflection of my dedication to quality, creativity, and personalization, and happy clients naturally become the best advocates for my work.

It all starts with the experience I strive to give each client. Whether it’s a simple birthday cake or an intricate themed design, I focus on delivering not just a dessert but a centerpiece that exceeds expectations. Many of my clients have shared their cakes with family and friends at events, and it’s those celebrations that spark curiosity and new referrals.

The beauty of word-of-mouth is that it’s authentic. It builds trust because potential clients are hearing directly from someone they know and whose opinion they value. Plus, when someone comes to me based on a recommendation, they often already feel confident about working with me, which makes the process so much more enjoyable for both of us.

Word-of-mouth has not only grown my business but also created a sense of community. I’ve built relationships with families who come back cake after cake for new celebrations, and it’s incredibly fulfilling to be a part of their milestones.

For me, it’s a reminder that every cake is more than a project—it’s an opportunity to create something memorable and to connect with people who value my work. That’s the heart of my business, and it’s what keeps me inspired every day.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

This November has been one of the most challenging yet rewarding months of my life. As a full-time college student in my final year, I’ve been juggling finals, work, and a fully booked schedule of custom cake orders. It’s the busiest month I’ve ever had as a baker, and every day has felt like a race against the clock.

My days start early with classes and end late in the kitchen, where I’ve spent countless hours creating cakes for birthdays, anniversaries, and even a special Thanksgiving centerpiece. One of my most memorable orders this month was a star-shaped, red and black, Bratz-themed cake for a 19th birthday. It was a bold design that required intense focus, especially with my decision to use whipped icing instead of buttercream for the intricate details.

Meanwhile, finals week loomed over everything. I found myself flipping through study notes while waiting for cakes to bake and working on essays in the brief moments between deliveries. There were nights when I got barely any sleep, running on adrenaline and coffee to meet deadlines for both school and clients.

Despite the chaos, I made it through. Every cake was delivered on time, and I’m proud to say I’ve stayed on top of my studies. This month has tested my resilience, time management, and ability to stay calm under pressure. It hasn’t been easy, but it’s also been a reminder of why I started baking in the first place.

What I love most about my work is the joy it brings to others. Seeing a client’s reaction to their cake—whether it’s awe, gratitude, or excitement—makes all the hard work worth it. As I wrap up this November, I’m more confident than ever in my ability to tackle any challenge, knowing that passion and perseverance can carry me through even the busiest times.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://tkak3z.square.site/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/t.kak3s?igsh=OTZla2VxYWRtdDM4&utm_source=qr
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/18R2ooJ2ef/?mibextid=LQQJ4d