Burlington Baker Erinn Simon: A Sweet Success Story
Wedding cakes are often more about appearance than taste, but Erinn Simon, a seasoned baker in Burlington, Vermont, is changing that narrative. With over 22 years of experience and a thousand cakes under her belt, Erinn’s custom bakery, That Cake Stand, is a testament to her dedication to creating beautiful and delicious cakes.
Erinn’s journey into the world of wedding cakes began with a less-than-stellar experience at her own wedding. She recalls her cake being dry and the frosting leaving an unpleasant aftertaste. However, this setback fueled her passion to create cakes that not only look stunning but also taste amazing.
After honing her skills working at the Burlington Children’s Space and writing for parenting magazines, Erinn ventured into the baking world as a side gig. Through trial and error, cookbooks, and online tutorials, she perfected her craft. Today, she operates out of a rented kitchen at the Cathedral Church of St. Paul, churning out up to 25 cakes a week, with prices starting at $30 for standard cakes and $6 per serving for tiered cakes.
Finding Her Niche: A Chat with Erinn Simon
When asked about her approach to the custom cake business, Erinn exudes enthusiasm and a can-do attitude. She admits to rarely turning down a challenge, always willing to push the boundaries of design and flavor. While wedding cakes are her bread and butter, Erinn’s heart lies in creating fun, kooky birthday cakes that showcase her creativity and personality.
One of the most memorable cakes Erinn recalls making was a Star Wars-themed wedding cake. What started as a simple white cake with square tiers morphed into a gold figurine extravaganza with navy blue fondant draping. The intricate design kept Erinn up until the wee hours of the morning, meticulously ensuring every detail was perfect.
The Best and Worst Parts of the Job
Despite the challenges of cake delivery, including long drives and stressful summer conditions, Erinn finds immense joy in the reactions of her clients. The satisfaction of hearing that her cake was exactly what they wanted and being a part of their special day is what drives her passion for baking.
In a world where wedding cakes are often seen as mere decorations, Erinn Simon stands out as a beacon of flavor and creativity. With a commitment to excellence and a love for whimsical designs, she continues to redefine what it means to have your cake and eat it too.
This interview with Erinn Simon of That Cake Stand has been edited for clarity and length, capturing the essence of her journey from amateur baker to seasoned professional.
