Friday, January 31, 2014

Closed Peony Center Tutorial!

Several weeks ago, I posted my Open Peony Tutorial...  I've received such great feedback on it, so if you haven't seen it, check it out!
Well, this week, I want to share a follow-up to that tutorial... how to make a closed center! 
  I typically use the closed centers when I want to make a smaller peony for a cake...  I would add a calyx to the base and use this as the peony bud, as well.
 Check out the video below to see how to make the closed center :)
Hope you enjoy and will trying making this beautiful flower!

Happy Caking :)

Wednesday, January 22, 2014

Donate with Causora!


Hi Everyone!

Today, I wanted to take a moment to introduce you to Causora, a new sponsor of my blog.  I know they are not really related to baking, and typically only work with companies that are.  However, I couldn't pass up the opportunity to share this great cause and opportunity! 

A little about Causora from their website:

YOU GIVE = YOU GET

Support your favorite cause and get rewarded for it.
Causora is a One-for-One giving platform that rewards donations.

Our mission is to help causes raise more funds by rewarding donations with the support of our network of socially conscious merchants.

We’re a team of entrepreneurs, engineers, strategists, and general do-gooders who are hoping to change the face of philanthropy. We love what we do and hope you are equally impressed with Causora.

Causora has created a new ecosystem that links donors, charities, and businesses.
For every $20 you donate you will receive a $20 gift certificate as a reward! 

http://curealz.org/about

I've decided to feature the Cure Alzheimer's Fund as my charity of choice.  Just a couple of months ago, in November, my grandmother passed away after her struggle with the disease.  It was heartbreaking to watch her go through it.  She was always so proud of her large family and stood as our proud matriarch.  So when she could no longer host the family parties, slowly lost her independence, and started to forget who her own children were it was painful for all of us, including her.  I am hoping that by supporting the Cure Alzheimer's Fund on my blog I can help raise even a little, to fund research to fight the disease.  You can read about the Cure Alzheimer's Fund here.

If you are inclined to donate, you will find the donation widget in the right hand column.  Any little bit will be appreciated!

Happy Caking :)



  

DISCLAIMER: This is a sponsored post.  Causora reached out to me and asked me to feature their widget and write a post about them.  I am being compensated for this post and will earn a small commission.  However, all opinions are my own.

Wednesday, January 8, 2014

Open Gumpaste Peony Tutorial!

It's been a while since I've put out an in depth tutorial...  Well, today I have a great one for you all!  Recently I was asked to make a peony video, and that is what I am going to share today!
I love the look of the open-style peony!  I think they are full, and beautiful and natural looking.  They are beautiful, ruffley statement flowers for wedding cake (or any occasion!).
Take a look at my video, to see how I made this beautiful open peony!


I hope you'll feel confident to give this flower a try!  If you do, head on over to my Facebook Page and share your photos!




Happy Caking :)