Terri’s Cakes Detroit

Hi, I’m so glad you’re here! I’m the owner and lead instructor at Terri’s Cakes Detroit, and my journey into cake decorating is one that’s rooted in family, love, and legacy.I got started in the kitchen with my mom—Terri—who launched our family’s cake business back in August of 1977. I spent my childhood watching her work, absorbing her techniques, and helping out in little ways. In 2014, everything changed. She received an order for cupcakes and didn’t want to take it—but she remembered I knew her recipes. That moment was the beginning of my next chapter. She officially retired, and I stepped into the business, carrying her recipes, her spirit, and her belief in me.Her confidence in my ability to grow what she started—from a home-based kitchen to a full-fledged commercial retail destination—is what sparked my passion. I fell in love with cake decorating, not just because of the beauty of the craft, but because of what it represents: creativity, celebration, and connection.Teaching became a natural extension of that love. There’s something magical about watching someone who didn’t think they could do something beam with pride when they finish decorating their very first cake. That joy—that moment—is what keeps me coming back.In my classes, I make it a point to bring humor and personal stories into the room. I speak to every student as if they are just as capable as I am—because they are. I try to touch every cake that leaves our kitchen, and I treat every student with the same care and attention. Cake decorating might seem simple in theory, but it requires patience and precision—and I love helping people discover they have both.Over the years, I’ve had the honor of teaching nearly 200 students. I’ve led cake decorating activities for Girl Scouts earning badges, taught finance and entrepreneurship to middle schoolers, and even used cake decorating to help students strengthen their math skills. I’ve worked with employers to lead team-building events, and our classes have become a place where people of all ages feel empowered, welcomed, and inspired.I’m proud to say our work has been featured in local magazines and news programs, and while I don’t hold formal culinary degrees, what I bring to the table is lived experience, passion, and the joy of continuing a family legacy that’s over four decades strong.I hope to see you in class soon—you just might surprise yourself with what you can create.