Signature Cakes, Cocktails Enhance Guest Experience
| 2016 Q2 | story by ANNE BROCKHOFF | photos by Steven Hertzog
Cami of Camis Cakes starts creating a 4 tier cake
Wedding celebrations through the ages have ranged from grand feasts and garden parties to balls and breakfasts, yet all have included cakes and drinks. Tradition usually dictated what was served: Romans crumbled wheat or barley cakes over a bride’s head to symbolize abundance, while Medieval couples drank mead for luck.
Money mattered, too. Only the wealthy could copy King Charles II’s pyramids of sugar-glazed English spice cakes in the 1600s. And politics dictated tea and punch replace wine during Prohibition. By the end of the 20th century, Champagne toasts were back in vogue.
And now? Tradition and fashion still matter, but couples are increasingly focused on expressing their own style when it comes to cakes and cocktails.
“Couples are spending more on the guest experience and adding personal touches,” according to a 2015 survey by wedding resource The Knot. Spending on all reception categories rose, with cakes now costing an average of $575, or 3.6 percent more than in 2014. Signature cocktails are also more popular—22 percent of the 18,000 couples surveyed served them last year, up from 12 percent in 2008.
Louis Wigen-Toccalino, Decade Coffee & Expresso and Black Door Catering Co
The added cost is worth it, though, says Louis Wigen-Toccalino, owner of Decade Coffee & Espresso and Back Bar Catering Co.
“You’re building memories,” he says. “It’s something people will talk about afterwards.”
Wigen-Toccalino opened Decade two years ago and started mixing drinks after getting a liquor license in October. Soon after, customers began requesting cocktail catering services.
Some events are off-site, while others take place at the shop, at Ninth and Delaware streets, such as a recent social hour following a wedding at the Cider Gallery. After the ceremony, guests walked to Decade to socialize over cocktails before returning to the gallery for a dinner reception.
They weren’t just any cocktails, though. Wigen-Toccalino works with couples to create drinks that reflect their own personalities.
“If there’s a gin they had on their first date or a Champagne they drank on the beach—whatever those stories are, we can weave them into a drink,” Wigen-Toccalino says. “It’s a cocktail just for them. You won’t find it anywhere else.”
Wigen-Toccalino’s creations often feature infused spirits and house-made syrups or bitters; herbs, berries and farmers’ market finds; and fragrant garnishes. The result is typically a classic cocktail with a unique spin, such as a Boston sour that adds cold-brew coffee to the traditional whiskey, lemon juice, cherry and egg white.
“Where we shine is with excellent versions of simple drinks,” Wigen-Toccalino says. “People are surprised when the cocktails they’re familiar with are elevated and refined.”
Demand for bespoke wedding cocktails is in keeping with the overall shift to craft drinking, says Bryan Love, owner of The Bourbonist, another Lawrence-based cocktail catering company. Consumers in their 20s and 30s are especially fascinated by them, thanks in part to social media and television shows like “Mad Men” and “Bar Rescue.”
“It’s very trendy with millennials,” says Love, a bartender who also manages the Red Lyon Tavern. “They know what they want and how they want it.”
Love typically conducts two initial tastings. The first helps him hone in on preferences; specific drinks are chosen during the second. Gin and vodka are popular for summer, Love says, and he likes matching them with lavender-honey syrup, blackberry or vanilla-orange shrubs (vinegar-based syrups), fresh herbs like mint or rosemary, and edible flowers.
Brian Love, The Bourbonist – photo by Patrick Connor
The cost varies, depending on what clients want. Love says some offer a single signature drink; others request different drinks for prewedding festivities, the wedding day and the reception—what he calls “the whole shebang.”
“It’s all customizable,” Love says. “I’m here to say ‘yes.’ ”
The same goes for cakes. While the white, multitiered cake is still popular, it’s by no means de rigueur. Buttercream frosting now comes with flowers, ruffles or textures, although lace, geometric patterns and so-called naked cakes with exposed sides and fillings are still popular. Marbled patterns or ombré, pale pink and gold or bright colors—anything’s possible, says Cami San Romani, owner of Cami’s Cakes and Coffee, in Eudora.
Whatever the design, it’s best to order early. Specialty bakeries that focus primarily on weddings book up quickly, especially during the peak autumn months. Yes, you read that right. Autumn has now surpassed summer as the busiest wedding season.
“October is our No. 1 busiest month of the year,” says San Romani, who recommends couples book a year to 18 months in advance. “People are surprised that we’re completely booked into fall [2016].”
San Romani does between 200 and 250 wedding cakes a year, mostly in Kansas City, Lawrence and the surrounding area, both for locals and out-of-towners who attended the University of Kansas or whose families live nearby. Each begins with a tasting of a handful of the dozen flavors San Romani lists on her website; all are made from scratch using real butter, vanilla and other ingredients. That’s one reason her cakes typically cost $5 per serving, putting many in the $800 to $1,000 range.
That shouldn’t scare anyone, though, San Romani explains. She routinely works with customers to devise less-expensive options, such as a smaller-tiered cake supplanted by sheet cakes. Donut bars, pies (either whole or hand pies), cupcakes or a selection of confectionary or desserts are popular, as well.
“We’re willing to work with any budget,” San Romani says.
Labor also figures into the cost. All custom orders must be paid in full two weeks ahead of delivery so San Romani can order supplies. She confirms details the Monday before and bakes on Tuesday. Cakes are wrapped and chilled, then decorating begins on Wednesday. On Thursday, San Romani finishes icing. Fridays are for detail work like flowers or extra piping. Most cakes are delivered on Saturday or Sunday with the help of her husband, Dustin San Romani, who teaches in Lawrence and coaches basketball in Eudora.
In between all of that, San Romani and her three employees fill plenty of orders for other occasions.
“We live in a small community, so we have to be accessible,” she says. “We do tons of birthday cakes, graduations, baptisms and communions.”
Not that she minds doing the smaller events. San Romani, an artist, began baking cakes out of her house in 2011 and then moved into a commercial space in downtown Eudora. A successful Kickstarter campaign in 2014 raised $5,531 and allowed San Romani to move into a larger space and add a retail counter serving coffee from The Roasterie, donuts, scones, muffins and treats.
There are couches and soft chairs, and a nook with children’s books and toys—a favorite spot for her 2- and 4-year-old children. They often tag along on deliveries, too, making it very much a family business.
“When we’ve drive by, my name’s on the building,” says San Romani, who’s expecting her third child this fall. “It means something to me, and hopefully it will mean something to them.”
Desiree Lopez was driven by a similar entrepreneurial urge to open BellaRoca Cakes in Lawrence. She’d always baked but didn’t consider doing it professionally until the company she worked for merged with a competitor and eliminated her position. So
she took a cake-decorating class, and then a friend of a friend asked her to make a wedding cake. More requests followed, and by 2011, she had a full-time business baking wedding, birthday, baby shower, graduation and special-occasion cakes.
Now, “We do pretty much anything you can think of,” says Lopez, who suggests placing orders for wedding cakes and large events six months in advance.
Lopez’s business was initially home-based, but she quickly realized the need for more space. She bought a second house in north Lawrence, which is used entirely for BellaRoca Cakes, save a playroom for when her 3-year-old is there. She has one assistant, and her husband, Joel Lopez, helps with tasks including building special structures required for large cakes, like the 6-foot football field once ordered by KU’s football team.
“It was a massive thing,” says Lopez, who often uses social media sites like Pinterest to communicate with customers. “Obviously, it’s not a normal cake board I can order.”
Lopez offers a variety of cake flavors, all made with real butter and locally sourced eggs. That can be challenging, since egg production varies seasonally, so she’s forged relationships with several farms near Lawrence and Topeka. If the farmers run out, Lopez buys eggs from Dillons Food Stores, which sources all of its eggs in Kansas.
That does add to the cost—Lopez’s prices start at $3 a slice, with additional charges for things like fondant and shimmer colors—but customers like that she buys local, she says.
Plus, “I think it tastes better,” says Lopez, who also offers cupcakes, cake pops and balls, hand-dipped strawberries and other confections, many of which can be shipped. “You pay more for better quality ingredients.”
CONTACT INFO:
Brian Love
The Bourbonist
www.thebourbonist785.com
Lawrence, KS
Louis Wigen-Toccalino
Back Bar Catering Co.
www.backbarcateringco.com
Decade Coffee & Espresso
www.decadelawrence.com
920 Delaware Street
Lawrence, KS
Cami San Romani
Cami’s Cakes & Coffee
www.camiscakeco.com
800 Main St.
Eudora, KS
Desiree Lopez
BellaRoca Cakes
www.bellarocadesigns.com
Lawrence, KS
48 Comments
bookmarked!!, I love your web site!
It?s actually a cool and helpful piece of information. I am glad that you shared this useful information with us. Please keep us informed like this. Thanks for sharing.
Hi! I could have sworn I’ve been to this website before but after going through some of the articles I realized it’s new to me. Regardless, I’m certainly delighted I found it and I’ll be book-marking it and checking back frequently!
Selling a boat requires proper preparation to attract buyers. Cleaning, servicing, and taking high-quality photos can make a big difference. Listing the boat with a detailed description and highlighting key features helps it stand out. Pricing it competitively based on market value ensures a faster sale. Transparency about the boat’s condition builds trust with buyers. A well-presented boat sells quickly and at a good price.
This functional exchangeable infant car seat reviews canada 2019 ends up being three seats.
Pontoon boats are a fantastic choice for families and social gatherings. Their spacious design allows for comfortable seating, sunbathing, and even onboard grilling. Many pontoons come with luxury features like sound systems and mini-bars, making them perfect for parties. They are also easy to operate, making them ideal for beginners. Whether you’re cruising a lake or relaxing on the river, a pontoon boat ensures a great time on the water.
kirsten lee porn college stacy exploited college girls porn beer gut nude college guy.
Enjoyed every bit of your blog article.Much thanks again. Cool.
There is certainly a great deal to know about this issue. I love all of the points you’ve made.
Sailboats offer a peaceful and eco-friendly way to travel. Unlike motorboats, they rely on wind power, making them a favorite among those who enjoy traditional sailing. Learning to sail takes practice, but once you master it, you can explore the ocean without fuel costs. Many sailboats come with modern navigation systems, making long voyages easier. Whether racing or cruising, sailing is a rewarding experience that connects you to nature.
Customizing a boat allows owners to create their ideal watercraft. Adding LED lighting, high-end sound systems, and upgraded seating enhances the boating experience. Many owners install advanced GPS systems for easier navigation. Fishing boats can be customized with better rod holders and bait stations. Whether upgrading for luxury or functionality, customization makes a boat feel truly personal.
Great blog you have here.. It’s difficult to find high-quality writing like yours these days. I honestly appreciate people like you! Take care!!
Discover the power of MinSwap, the leading decentralized exchange platform offering seamless trading and low fees. Maximize your assets and join the next generation of decentralized finance
Discover CowSwap, the trusted decentralized exchange platform for seamless crypto trades in 2025. With low fees, high security, and fast transactions, CowSwap is a go-to solution for DeFi users worldwide
Discover the future of decentralized finance with Woofi Finance, a cutting-edge platform for seamless crypto staking and yield farming. Maximize your returns with low fees and high rewards. Join the revolution in DeFi today!
Discover CowSwap, the trusted decentralized exchange platform for seamless crypto trades in 2025. With low fees, high security, and fast transactions, CowSwap is a go-to solution for DeFi users worldwide
Discover the power of MinSwap, the leading decentralized exchange platform offering seamless trading and low fees. Maximize your assets and join the next generation of decentralized finance
Discover CowSwap, the trusted decentralized exchange platform for seamless crypto trades in 2025. With low fees, high security, and fast transactions, CowSwap is a go-to solution for DeFi users worldwide
Discover the future of decentralized finance with Woofi Finance, a cutting-edge platform for seamless crypto staking and yield farming. Maximize your returns with low fees and high rewards. Join the revolution in DeFi today!
Discover CowSwap, the trusted decentralized exchange platform for seamless crypto trades in 2025. With low fees, high security, and fast transactions, CowSwap is a go-to solution for DeFi users worldwide
Buying a boat is an exciting experience, whether you’re a first-time owner or upgrading to a bigger model. There are so many options, from small fishing boats to luxurious yachts. It’s important to choose one that fits your lifestyle, whether you plan to fish, cruise, or enjoy watersports. Checking the boat’s condition, engine performance, and maintenance history can help you make the right decision. Owning a boat is not just about transportation—it’s about freedom and adventure on the water.
Discover the power of MinSwap, the leading decentralized exchange platform offering seamless trading and low fees. Maximize your assets and join the next generation of decentralized finance
Hello! I just would like to offer you a big thumbs up for your excellent info you’ve got right here on this post. I’ll be returning to your web site for more soon.
Discover CowSwap, the trusted decentralized exchange platform for seamless crypto trades in 2025. With low fees, high security, and fast transactions, CowSwap is a go-to solution for DeFi users worldwide
Discover the future of decentralized finance with Woofi Finance, a cutting-edge platform for seamless crypto staking and yield farming. Maximize your returns with low fees and high rewards. Join the revolution in DeFi today!
Discover CowSwap, the trusted decentralized exchange platform for seamless crypto trades in 2025. With low fees, high security, and fast transactions, CowSwap is a go-to solution for DeFi users worldwide
Having read this I thought it was very informative. I appreciate you taking the time and effort to put this informative article together. I once again find myself spending a significant amount of time both reading and posting comments. But so what, it was still worth it.
Buying a boat is an exciting experience, whether you’re a first-time owner or upgrading to a bigger model. There are so many options, from small fishing boats to luxurious yachts. It’s important to choose one that fits your lifestyle, whether you plan to fish, cruise, or enjoy watersports. Checking the boat’s condition, engine performance, and maintenance history can help you make the right decision. Owning a boat is not just about transportation—it’s about freedom and adventure on the water.
Used boats can be a great value if properly maintained. Some well-kept pre-owned boats perform just as well as new ones but come at a fraction of the price. Inspecting a used boat thoroughly before purchasing is essential. Checking the hull for cracks, testing the engine, and reviewing service records can prevent future issues. A marine surveyor can provide a professional assessment to ensure you’re getting a quality boat. Financing options are available for both new and used boats, making it easier for buyers to afford their dream vessel.
Journal of Comparative Household Studies.
For thrill-seekers, speedboats and jet boats provide high-speed excitement. These boats are built for performance, with powerful engines that allow for quick acceleration and smooth maneuvering. Speedboats are perfect for water sports like wakeboarding and skiing. Jet boats, on the other hand, use jet propulsion instead of traditional propellers, making them safer in shallow waters. Both options provide adrenaline-pumping fun and are a favorite among boating enthusiasts who love speed.
Your method of explaining everything in this post is really good, all be capable of simply understand it, Thanks a lot.
Discover the power of MinSwap, the leading decentralized exchange platform offering seamless trading and low fees. Maximize your assets and join the next generation of decentralized finance
Discover CowSwap, the trusted decentralized exchange platform for seamless crypto trades in 2025. With low fees, high security, and fast transactions, CowSwap is a go-to solution for DeFi users worldwide
Discover the future of decentralized finance with Woofi Finance, a cutting-edge platform for seamless crypto staking and yield farming. Maximize your returns with low fees and high rewards. Join the revolution in DeFi today!
Discover CowSwap, the trusted decentralized exchange platform for seamless crypto trades in 2025. With low fees, high security, and fast transactions, CowSwap is a go-to solution for DeFi users worldwide
Sheridan areas of Montcalm County, inside a short drive of Langston.
We absolutely love your blog and find a lot of your post’s to be precisely what I’m looking for. Would you offer guest writers to write content for yourself? I wouldn’t mind producing a post or elaborating on many of the subjects you write in relation to here. Again, awesome web log!
I am typically to running a blog and i actually respect your content. The article has really peaks my interest. I am going to bookmark your web site and preserve checking for new information.
Having read this I thought it was very informative. I appreciate you taking the time and energy to put this content together. I once again find myself spending a lot of time both reading and leaving comments. But so what, it was still worthwhile.
Right here is the right web site for anybody who really wants to find out about this topic. You know so much its almost hard to argue with you (not that I really would want to…HaHa). You definitely put a new spin on a topic that’s been discussed for many years. Wonderful stuff, just excellent.
Do you know how Christmas is celebrated in Mexico?
I observe there is a lot of spam on this blog. Do you want help cleaning them up? I might help in between courses!
ground to make nut butters,高級 ラブドールor pressed for oil that is used in cooking and cosmetics.
Wonderful blog! Do you have any hints for aspiring writers? I’m planning to start my own site soon but I’m a little lost on everything. Would you propose starting with a free platform like WordPress or go for a paid option? There are so many options out there that I’m completely confused .. Any ideas? Thank you!
Sending warm wishes for a joyful and peaceful holiday season.May your heart be light and your spirits be high during this festive time.オナホ
Its working frequency vary is 149Hz to 20kHz with impressively linear phase response throughout that range and across the beam width.
Boat Retailers