It's been said that perfectionism is a productivity nightmare. Mary Lubey of Almost Perfect Cakes would tend to agree. When asked where she got the name from, she says laughingly, "Honestly, because my cakes aren't perfect! I didn't want people to get the impression they were going to order something and it was going to be perfect. A lot people send me photos and say 'Can you make this?' Yes, I can, but I do it as ME. They do it as them. So it's almost perfect."
The former social worker from California launched her business in April of 2020. "I made a cake for my friend's son's birthday and people became interested in having me make their cakes. And it started from there. Then I got started on Instagram." She continues, "I always loved baking. I did cookies and cupcakes but nothing custom. Then I did my sister and sister-in law's baby shower cakes." And the rest is history.
Mary's favorite? "I do love making kids cakes because they get so excited over them. But I try to make each cake special to the person. A favorite color, stuff they like." And her least favorite? "Fondant is really tedious at times. Sometimes I'm up till 3:00 AM playing with fondant!"
Mary's Baking Advice:
1. Cakes are easier to assemble when they are firm. Tightly wrap and place in the freezer for at least 20 minutes before you plan to stack and frost.
2. To achieve smooth sides you need to get all the air bubbles out of the frosting. After the frosting comes together in the mixer stir it with a wooden spoon or spatula to release the air.
3. Believe in yourself. Confidence is the first step to making something amazing.