The wedding checklist can quickly turn into a matrimonial nightmare. Soon-to-be-hitched couples have a million things for which to prepare, confirm and execute, and the slightest mishap can induce possible waterworks, or worse, an unhitched couple. Luckily there are services in place to assist said frenzied lovers, more so, luckily there is cake. After five years on Queen West, Cindy and Sarah Coelho have moved their crafty wedding cake creation biz to a College and Ossington store-front. Here, the Wedding Cake Shoppe houses custom-made wedding cakes, accessories and baked goods, all in a pink-kissed cake shop that glistens with a distinct upscale clothing boutique feel.

Taking over the space that used to be the Elaine Fleck Gallery was a smart decision, since the polished and refined headquarters are suitable for various activities (eye gazing, sampling or thirty to sixty minutes of down-to-business meetings) without being to overbearing. Guests can watch the pastry chef (Cindy) and her sister blend all natural fresh fruit, whip up batter, and compose the multi-tier cakes, without interrupting the party planning. Clients can choose custom flavour combinations like Dreamy Cookies & Cream, Spicy Chai Latte, Mellow Mint, Canadian Maple, or Tropical Pina Colada, to name a few.

My senses became heightened as a glanced around the cozy yet sophisticated space, noticing the abundance of cute wedding cake toppers and accessories, while taking in a hint of baked treats that would perk even Martha's attention. Although the shop's (complete with a modern kitchen and appliances) main retail is hand crafted wedding cakes, the ladies also serve homemade cookies and cupcakes and freshly brewed coffee, daily. With a handful of seats to rest in, those just wishing to devour sweets can do so, while watching the magic in the making.

Stretched behind the entrance windows is a decision table, where both quiet and clamorous consultations will ensue. Picking the perfect cake is a process. While some keen couples know exactly what details and style of cake they prefer, many need a little hand-holding.

"We have brides and their entourage sift through our books full of ideas, and templates (some also bring their own pictures), helping them choose what designs work best for their theme," states Cindy. When asked what special features are commonly added to the shrine-of-a-cake, Cindy informed me that, "a lot of brides want real crystals pressed into the cake, or used as toppers." And, although the cake is an essential part of a wedding to save money Cindy suggests clients try smaller cakes instead of using larger-than-life centerpieces. Thanks to specialty craft shops like The Paper Place, eclectic and traditional toppers are also available for some extra personality.

An average cake that feeds about one hundred people starts at $420, which may cause one to gasp at the thought, but this is the big one. A mass-produced box cake just won't do. The Wedding Cake Shoppe provides a service that goes beyond the in-house consultation and creation, which includes delivery and setup with every order.

"We are about making sure everything goes smoothly, or as best as we can. We take pictures, set things up and hope for the best. I mean, if something happens to the cake I want people to call me, and I'll do whatever I can to fix the situation," Cindy explains.

As I walked out of the chic shop, with a cupcake box in hand, I actually second-guessed my current occupation, too bad I can’t bake. At least I have Cindy and Sarah. At least I have cake. -K.K.

The Wedding Cake Shoppe is now open.

The Wedding Cake Shoppe
859 College Street
Toronto, ON