How did you make the progression from a graphic designer to a cake designer?
My cupcake journey began in 2013, when I was searching for a creative outlet away from my graphic design job. Cupcake art was always something at the back of my mind that I wanted to try, and when I saw the first episode of the Great Australian Bake Off air in Australia( their cupcake episode) I immediately became hooked.
Where do you find your inspiration?
Inspiration is everywhere- it really does come down to perception. If I find I’ m having creative block I love to scroll through Pinterest- visually it is so engaging and it’ s easy to find inspiration.
What are your long term goals for your business?
Ultimately, I would love to be recognised nationally and internationally for my detailed and miniaturised fondant work( which is easier said than done!). Additionally, I would love the opportunity to regularly teach my skills at cake decorating venues and events around Australia.
What do you love about creating cupcakes as opposed to cakes?
Cupcakes represent a challenge to be artistically creative in only a small working space. Additionally, most of your focus is on the design and creation of the cupcake topper itself.
However, when decorating a cake, you have to bake, ganache, then cover your cake before you can even start piecing your design together. I think to myself“ Imagine doing this process for a four tiered cake?”. Personally, I find this to be an exhausting process and not as rewarding.
In saying that, I have made cakes in the past that I am quite proud of, but I find cupcakes are more satisfying. Seeing as I am from a graphic design background, I tend to really want to focus as much time as I can on design, instead of exhausting myself( in my opinion) on monotonous cake processes.
Your miniature toppers are so beautifully detailed. How do you get such stunning results on such a small scale?
Thank you very much- miniature food toppers are my speciality! I am a perfectionist and coming from a graphic design background I have a really good eye for detail. To get this end result, it really does take a lot of time and patience. For some reason, I’ ve always been better at modelling smaller fondant decorations compared to creating larger ones.
What are your favourite cake tools?
My favourite tools are pretty standard- I love my scapel, palette knife and dresden tool- I would not go anywhere without them.
Do you teach? If so, is it in person or online? How can prospective students get in touch?
I do teach- I’ m available to travel nationally and internationally to conduct hands on classes. I am happy to work with people and / or businesses to create a tailor made demonstration or class to suit their requirements. You can contact me through my website www. commiescupcakes. com or alternatively email me at commies. cupcakes @ gmail. com
more information
Business: Commie ' s Cupcakes Name: Amber Comadira-Smith instagram. com / commies. cupcakes www. commiescupcakes. com