TWO Chester businesswomen are offering keen bakers the chance to take part in free cake decorating classes to celebrate National Cupcake Week.
Ann Gardiner, 37, and Kerri Elston, 26, both of Broughton, opened Madhatter’s Tearoom in Bridge Street Row, Chester, back in April.
The pair are giving people the chance to visit the tearoom – which is located in the 350-year-old St Michael’s Rectory – and buy a plain cupcake which they will then be able to decorate for free.
Kerri said: “The idea is that people buy a naked cupcake from us and then decorate it with icing and sprinkles. We will show you how to turn it into a mini masterpiece.”
And last week the entrepreneurs used social networking sites Twitter and Facebook to ask people for their ideas for new cupcake recipes.
“This weekend we will be offering three special cupcakes, rhubarb and custard, salted caramel and pretzel and apple pie and cinnamon.
“We had a fantastic response and we’ll be busy in the kitchen perfecting the recipes this week,” added Kerri.
National Cupcake Week, organised by British Baker magazine, is now in its third year and runs until Sunday.
Kerri told the Chronicle that the tearoom – which is bursting at the seams with vintage teacups, brightly coloured teapots and an array of eclectic items – has proved to be a big success.
“Business is going from strength to strength. Lots of local businesses have supported us and have asked us to complete orders for special events they are holding.”
The free cupcake decorating lessons take place each day until Sunday from 3.30-4.30pm.
