About Me

My first experience with baking began at age 7 when I received an Easy Bake Oven from Santa Claus. My dad was the recipient of many pies, cookies, and cakes. Later I began watching my Grandma who was a wedding cake decorator. She gave me a coupon from Wilton's for a free cake decorating equipment set. It had one bag, one coupler, 4 colors, and 4 tips. At age 13, I began baking and decorating cakes using this starter set. I did this as a hobby for years giving cakes to family and friends.

My wedding cake business began when my friend Jennifer, who owned a floral shop, stopped by to ask me if I ever thought about making wedding cakes. I had only made one before that time for my cousin Cindy and although I tried real hard, I didn't know what I was doing. Anyway, Jennifer and my husband BJ discussed the matter as to whether or not this was something I should do. I just sat there watching and listening. They decided I should and the next day Jennifer called me and said a bride was in her shop looking for a wedding cake decorator and between Jennifer and my husband, my first wedding cake was booked. So, I bought some more books and videos, studied them well and made my first wedding cake. I've been busy ever since. My Easy Bake Oven is on display in my shop and still works.

I have had several pictures of my cakes published in "Here Comes the Cake", "American Cake Decorating Magazine", "Chef", "Chef Educator", "Mail Box News", and a publication from Australia, "Modern Wedding Cakes". I have entered several competitions and at the Oklahoma State Sugar Art Show I have placed 4th in 2001, 1st in 2002, 2nd in 2003, 1st in 2004, 8th in 2005 and GRAND PRIZE in 2006 with a cake titled "Stairway to Heaven". Along with this honor I received 1st place in the Divisional competition and Best of Show with a cake titled "Fantasy". At the Sugar Wionders Show in Richardson, Texas, I have placed 1st and best of division in 2003 in the tiered cakes category and 1st place in the seasonal cakes category at the 2005 Mid Atlantic Cake show. My cakes have also been featured on the Food Network Television show "Here Comes the Cake", "Challenge", and Warren Brown's "Sugar Rush".

I am married to BJ Payne who is also my best friend. He is a State Trooper for the Oklahoma Highway Patrol. My shop is located next door to my house and my husband is willing to help me with anything I need at any time.