She’s my ‘cake idol’, one of my favorite inspirations, she’s Peggy Porschen and she’s got a new book out!
I am thrilled to announce that I had the opportunity to interview Peggy and will be sharing that interview with you here. I’m also happy to announce that I will be giving away one signed copy of Cake Chic, also named Simply Spectacular Cakes.
You may have already noticed that I’ve mentioned Ms. Porschen and her books on numerous occasions. It’s because my journey on this sweet adventure began due to the inspiration of Pretty Party Cakes… not only pretty to look at, but resourceful as well.
Many cake book authors seem not to want to share their secrets and Peggy’s books stand out as ones which share them all.
Her new book, Cake Chic, doesn’t disappoint. As usual, it’s a feast for the eyes and includes some new ways of helping the reader understand how to create her gorgeous treats.
As someone new to making cakes, I also appreciate the range in complexity of projects available – decorating for people at all levels.
You might just find Peggy on one of the pages of your favorite magazines – she has been featured in Glamour, Marie Claire, Delicious and Brides wedding magazine {and so many more!} and has designed cakes for celebrities such as Elton John, Stella McCartney, Madonna and Anthony Hopkins. Her first book, Pretty Party Cakes, won the 2005 Gourmand Award for the Best Entertaining Book in the Word.
Curious about her yet? Here’s the interview followed by the Cake Chic giveaway details:
Interview with Peggy Porschen:
Marian: Peggy, I’m so excited to be speaking with you! I love all your books and the sugar masterpieces you create.
People associate you with cake decorating and baking, of course; but actually I kind think of you also as a style person too. You’re not really just about baking cakes, cookies and cupcakes… you have a style all your own. You have this beautiful balance between traditional and modern; I think it’s one of the secrets of your success.
Where do you find your inspiration, may I ask?
Peggy: Yes, sure; to be honest, there isn’t anything specific. Personally I love sort of girly things. I like to look at fabrics, fashion accessories, wallpapers; you know those kinds of things. Generally, I always felt I had a really good eye for color, so when I find beautiful color combinations I keep samples or just memorize them really well.
Also, when I mix colors I don’t just use plain colors or just one color to mix my icing; I always tend to mix.
Part of that is also from working at Konditor & Cook which is a cake shop here in London. They have sort of crazy, wacky cakes and one thing the owner, Gerhardt Jenne, told me right from the start was, “Forget about tradition, just let your imagination go and go wild, and do what you want to do.” So it really made me less scared of working with colors.
M: I notice that every recipe I try from your books turns out really well. May I ask, are they from Cordon Bleu where you studied, or are they a derivative of the recipes you tried there?
P: I think mostly, the best experience in terms of recipes I made are probably from Konditor & Cook because they are sponge and are much more usable for decorated cakes. Basically my recipes are based on a simple Victoria sponge cake. I just worked with it myself and adapted flavours and added syrups to find out what works best.
The best or biggest advice I could give is really don’t be stingy on your ingredients. You know if you don’t use good stuff you can really taste it.
M: What new cake decorating tools or equipment are you excited about lately?
P: Something new that came out over here is the PME lustre spray. I don’t know if it’s in Canada or America but over here it’s a fairly new thing.
It just makes adding lustre to your petals quick and easy. It saves you literally hours of work. You could also alternatively use an airbrush, but setting up the airbrush, if you don’t have it all ready to constantly use, can be a bit annoying.
M: Do you see yourself as a cake artist first or a baker?
P: Cake artist.
M: What inspired you to write your first book?
P: Oh actually I was asked; never in my wildest dreams would I have thought to write a book. It was a lucky coincidence really because I was selling cakes at a Christmas fair and a publisher saw my cookies, and just said we want to make a cake book with somebody; would you be interested? I was absolutely amazed!
At the time I wouldn’t say I had a signature style, so I then was in the lucky position to be able to go part-time and slow down with my job, so that I could focus completely on the book. It just really helped me to come up with ideas and sort of create my own designs. Some of them were designs I already had in my head for a long time; like the rose tower in Romantic Cakes – it was a cake I was dreaming about making for so long and just never got around to it.
M: It is beautiful! And I love how you use charming accessories like the birdcage with the white butterflies. How do you get inspired for your photo shoots?
P: Some ideas are inspired by working with bridal magazines. I find things are always a team effort. Sometimes the magazines will come and say for example, “We’ve got a scene with birdcages – they’re big right now”, so I have to admit it’s not always completely my idea.
M: I think we all get ideas from everywhere.
P: Exactly; I think if you wouldn’t work with other people and exchange ideas you just wouldn’t evolve.
M: I also have to say, you’re one of my inspirations and you are my cake hero. Do you have any ‘cake heros’?
P: Thank you! I guess you can probably tell I find Wendy Kromer incredibly inspiring. But also Ron Ben Israel; actually there are quite a few. I mean I guess Ron Ben Israel for his flowers and Wendy Kromer in general. I find she’s really innovative. I don’t like all of her designs I have to admit, but sometimes she’s got such genius ideas. You know, just so beautiful and aesthetically new and different.
I also like Cheryl Kleinman from New York very much. Unfortunately she hasn’t got a website, which makes it harder for all the other cake makers to look at her cakes. She features a lot in American wedding magazines and if you google her you’ll find her cakes.
I think these are sort of the main ones that have inspired me to get where I am, and there are many more whose styles I love and admire.
M: Who are your favourite cookbook authors?
P: I think what I really like are all these sort of new, scrumptious-looking recipe books about the cupcake trends. The Magnolia Bakery started it all off, and now over here we’ve got the Primrose Bakery and Hummingbird Bakery. They have just recently released books and I’m quite keen to try out some of their recipes but I haven’t had a chance yet.
M: You alluded to trends a little with the cupcakes. What, if any, are your cake trend predictions for 2010?
P: I noticed about 4 years ago it was all sort of fairly colourful and minis and cupcakes were popular. For weddings I find it’s going back to traditional cakes but with a contemporary approach.
I think people generally like a traditional, classic, white, stacked tier cake, but then they like contemporary touches like swags and pearl piping which looks sort of like the crystal chandelier design or damask. Lace is still quite big but I think it’s slowing down a bit. And sugar flowers. Back to sugar flowers.
M: Would you be able to pick your favourite cake, cupcake or cookie from your new book?
P: Well, yes, if you put me on the spot, I’ve got a couple actually (laughing). Out of the cookies, I think that the Scotty dogs and the Silhoutte cookies are pretty – they’re my favourites. Out of minis and cupcakes, I’d say, the cherry blossom fancies…
M: Oh that’s on the cover?
P: Yes, exactly. And then out of the cakes, button flowers is my favourite; also the style of photography is so pretty, and the Summer Symphony.
M: Do you have any plans to write more books, may I ask?
P: I surely do. I do generally like to have a creative break because I sometimes feel otherwise you start repeating yourself. You want to come up with fresh ideas, so it would probably take another year before I start thinking about new ideas. I’ve got some concepts in my head, but I guess I’ll be careful to say anything because I don’t know where it’s going to go.
M: I noticed in your books that you make the instructions easy to follow and include a range of projects in terms of complexity. You have some which are easier for beginners and some for those who have been doing it for a while. Do you have a target audience in mind with your books?
P: I do, because generally, first of all, I think that it’s really nice that I’ve managed to motivate so many people who’ve never done cakes before to actually get started. So I feel it’s important that there’s something in there for beginners. That’s what it’s all about really. You know when I started my training, I also just learned about basic sugar craft and I taught myself most of the skills through books. I find books are really important for people who want learn about making cakes.
And the more tricky ones, the thing is that it’s also for my name and my reputation… I feel that I need to have some challenging projects in there in order to be ahead of things, if you know what I mean. Also for myself, I just like to come up with something that’s different.
M: I like the fact that you have some more challenging things because it gives people something to aspire to.
Peggy I would like to thank you for taking the time out to do this interview; I appreciate it!
For anyone interested in taking classes with Peggy, she is focussing now on holding more of them. The information is on her site under Masterclasses (Shop) here: http://www.peggyporschen.com/shop/
She also recently flew to Malaysia and is coming to Toronto, Canada this November, to the Bonnie Gordon School of Cake Design. I know I’m completely thrilled to be signed up for the 3-day course. I’ll keep you posted on that!
Her book, Cake Chic, has been released on Amazon in England, France, Germany and Japan, but not yet in Canada or the United States. It will be released here in April 2010. I’ve checked Ebay periodically and have seen it there and on other on-line book sites, however it’s often being shipped from England or Australia.
If you’d like to order or pre-order her new book, they’re available at bookstores everywhere and on line. Specifically through the following Amazon links in:
Cake Chic Giveaway! CLOSED
Now on to the giveaway! One lucky winner will receive a signed copy of Peggy’s book, Cake Chic. How do you enter? It’s easy. Just leave a comment answering either of the following questions before 7pm on Tuesday, November 24th, 2009:
- What is one question you would ask your ‘hero’ (if you have one), in an interview?
OR
- What or who would you like to see featured on Sweetopia next?
The contest is international and the winner will be chosen randomly at www.random.org.
Another way of entering the draw is to retweet this post on twitter. Tweets will be added to the draw! (One per twitter user please).
Hope you enjoyed the interview and good luck with the giveaway! 😉
xo,
Marian
Jenny says
I am the mom of a very energetic toddler who loves to “help” in the kitchen. I would love to see some kid-friendly Christmas cookie ideas on Sweetopia!
Laura says
I would love to see an interview with Andrea Sullivan of Andrea’s Sweetcakes in Brampton Ontario. I have only recently discovered her work and from what information I can find on her, she has only been decorating cakes for a few years (since 07) and is self taught.
I just love her work, it is so colorful, whimsical and fun. She has recently been invited to be a guest instructor at the N& 2010 cake convention
Carrie J says
I would love to see more tutorials of cake decorating and more of just about anything. I love this site. It has so much information! Thanks for the giveaway!
ronnie says
I would ask what they wish they knew when they were just starting out.
Rita says
I enjoyed the article so much! I’d actually love to see an interview with Kerry Vincent!
RossanaPantaleo says
I love Peggy’s work also. I would love if you get an interview with Tobba Garrett. In regards to your blog, I’m always so amazed of your generosity to share tips and recipes that will help us make amazing sweets. I would like to see more tutorials, maybe on the KopyKakes 😉 and how you achieve to get such a beautiful cookies.
Janet says
Stunning workmanship. A wonderful interview ~ !
Katie says
I would love to see a super beginner oriented tutorial of fondant! I have always wanted to try a fondant cake, but have been slightly intimidated. I’m sure you would do a wonderful tutorial! 🙂
Christina says
I absolutely love her cakes and would be thrilled to win her book.
I would love to see more how to’s on this site. They are very helpful.
Susan says
Great interview, Marian! I just love Peggy Porschen’s work and I love yours too! For your next interview, I would like to hear from Anne Heap cake designer of Pink Cake Box. Thanks, and keep up the great work – I get very excited when I receive an email notifying me of your new post!
Kimberly Myers-Schuh says
So glad that you got to interview your favourite decorator…..she seems simply wonderful….I want that book! I would ask that person, “How did they manage to finally take that giant leap forward to fulfill thier dreams?”
Asha says
Great interview! I love those Silhoutte cookies so much, I have to make those! Beautiful!
I would love to see more tutorials. You’ve been so helpful with those. I’m new to this site and decorating cookies and I’m having so much fun!
Jonnie H says
I would ask my hero who her hero is
Chelsea says
I love Peggy Porschen’s work! I have her Pretty Party Cakes book and often refer back to it for ideas!
I would love to see an interview with Elisa Nicole Strauss. Another one of my favorites!
Helene Levett says
Great interview! I would love, love, love to see Paris Cutler from Planet Cakes featured! She’s my own personal inspiration and Planet Cakes inspired me to decorate cakes.
MIchelle says
Fabulous interview with Peggy Porschen. I would love to see an interview with Debbie Brown. I just love the fun themed cakes she does. I find her intructions easy to follow.
Debbie says
I would love for you to talk to Jacques Torres. His chocolate designs and artistry are amazing. I think chocolate sculptures would be wonderful on top of a cake or the sides.
catherine says
Great Interview Marian!
My question to my hero would be ‘What is the biggest factor that drives your work/art?’
Lauri says
Thank you for the GREAT interview! Her creations are Amazing!! I would love to see you interview Linda Pawsey. She is SOOOO creative! I think the idea of more interviews is such a great idea.
Thanks again for the oppurtunities you grant us! Your blog ROCKS!!
Denise V. Moses says
Hi: I just found your website from cake central. I would also like to see more Christmas cookies done on your website. I have both of Peggy’s books and would most definitely love to have her new book. I was looking forward to getting it in Oct and then the date changed to April. This would truly make my day if I was awarded her new book with her signature in it. This is a great website and I hope it just gets better and better. This makes me more determine than ever to make me one day be able to do this full time. xxxVicki0052
jan says
The more tutorials the better… I would love to see more tutorials. I love Sweetopia!
Beth says
I absolutely love your site! I would love to see you interview Bronwen Weber or Debbie Brown.
Melissa says
A friend from work forwarded me your site. I love it. You are very talented! In fact, we are neighbours! I live in Toronto. I just did a course at The Bonnie Gordon School of Cake Design and anyone who can, should attend. Have fun at the course. I think that should be your next post. When I did the course, Bonnie was kind enough to allow me to blog about it. I don’t see why you couldn’t do the same. Check out my experience making designer cupcakes at http://melssweettreats.blogspot.com/2009_10_01_archive.html
nikki says
HI Marian,
Thanks for a lovely interview and for inspiring the masses. My question to Peggy would be ” what advise would you give to someone starting out and define success?” Thanks to you Marain, Peggy is now one of my heroine’s, and if I win her book I can take it off my santa list.
P.S I’d love to see interviewed Ron Ben Israel or Fayhe Cahill.
Art and Appetite says
Congrats Marian for the interview!
I actually also got the chance to interview someone. I got to interview Stevie Famulari from the Food Network.
I would love you to feature Ron Ben Israel.
Mary-Clare Cavanagh says
I would love to see some 3D pieces… I have some cookie cutters that are 3D… but I would love to see a Christmas sleigh by you or something of the sort. More tutorials too. As a teacher I find your tutorials very easy to follow, precise and they work!
Thank you….
I am now an eager fan of Peggy’s books and will be asking Santa for one. Which one would you suggest for a beginner who dabbles in gingerbread houses?
cookienurse says
I love your site and I love Peggy! I would ask her: What advice would she give someone interested in starting a bakery?
Thanks for the giveaway and thanks for taking time to inspire us on your blog with your beautiful creations!
Meghan Spooner says
I love seeing all the new sweet treats published here, and reading the how-to guides really helps.
I would love to see more of your cookie creations! I love seeing what you come up with. It seems like you push the edge of sweet-art. Please, more decorated cookies!
cari says
I would love to see a tutorial on sweetopia on how to do a carved cake…I love your blog
Leslie says
I loved your interview with Peggy!
I would absolutely love to see you feature Nancy Didion of Nancy’s Fancy Cookies. Her cookies are breathtaking!
Corynn Chan says
I have a question for you, since you are my cookie hero. How did you get started in baking and decorating?
Rachael says
I think it would be cool to see one of your inspirations. You have such a unique style in terms of cookie decorating. I would like to know who inspired you. Thanks for the giveaway!
Karen Tan says
I would ask the authors of “Cooke Craft” whether they will be making another book. 😛
Thanks for the giveaway!
Alicia says
I would love to see more interviews with decorators about their creative process. I found this a great read 🙂
Melanie says
Ohhhhh..hmmm…I’m a fan of Ace of Cakes and I’d definitely ask Duff what kind of cake he would want for a special occassion…and who would he have make it! 🙂
Such a great interview Marian! Thanks 🙂
Jit says
I live in Minneapolis. One of the shops that do sell cakes like that is Gateaux Inc. I would ask them how they got started and what is their secret to creating such beautiful and unique cakes.
I enjoyed reading the interview. So cool that you actually got to meet her.
Josiah says
Maybe you could interview Bakerella. That’d be fun!
Wow! You met Peggy Porschen. That’s so cool. Thanks for the giveaway!
Corynn Chan says
Tweeted! http://twitter.com/corynnchan/status/5788090374
yael says
Great interview! I love hearing about how people got started in the business. I would ask the question, what keeps you going when the times get tough?
Judy says
Thanks for doing the interview with Peggy….Christmas Cookies please.
Debbie says
First, I love your blog, sweetopia. Just did my first cake using fondant, for my granddaughter’s first birthday party. I was pleased of the turn out and searching for ideas on your website helped. Love Peggy’s interview. I need her book. One of her heros,Ron Ben Israel. I hope I win. And again thanks.
Carol says
Great interview! I discovered Peggy Porschen recently when her beautiful book caught my eye at the bookstore. She’s amazing and her work is definitely right up my alley in terms of style. Keep them coming! I’m still new at cake decorating as I’m more of a baker while I delve into my creative side so more tutorials pls pls esp ones on sugar flowers. Been hunting for a great tutorial to create those big blooming roses ; )
Thanks XX
andrea says
I would love to see some more things about sugar flowers. i love prggys work!
Shinni says
I like to know more about cake decorating techniques in simplified ways with minimum tools. What would be your advise for someone with great passion to bake & decorating to start a shop, however with minimum capitals? Any plans for Peggy Porschen workshop?
Nilda says
Hi! love your blog! I would frame this book if I win it!! haha.. I would really like to see more tutorials in cake decorating
Thanks,
Nilda
Jennifer says
I would love to ask some of my cake heroes how they got started and what inspires them everyday!
Lynda McMillen says
I am a beginner cookie & cupcake decorator, so I would like to see more decorating tips for festive cookies and cupcakes. Love your site 🙂
Lindsey F says
I LOVE your site! And next I would love to see holiday cookies on sweetopia. I use your ideas as inspiration for my own cookies that I decorate and give to family and friends so it would be great to see more of your creativity!
SweetSugarBelle (Callye) says
Oh how badly I want to win a contest! This book is making me foam at the mouth!
Honestly, I think WOuld be kind of cool to feature unknowns on your blog like a lot of the Flickr-ers that read here. This is a good place to get a little exposure for their work and blogs, although I might be a bit biased, LOL!
Melissa Rodriguez says
What a great interview! Those cakes are too pretty for words! I’d love to see some ideas for decorating Christmas cookies…maybe even someone who makes copper cookie cutters that are unique, etc.