JUST six months after setting up her dream business, Karin Tong lost everything in the fire that destroyed much of the Hoole Enterprise centre last December.

All of Karin’s equipment, contacts and materials for her cupcake business literally went up in smoke.

However, rather than folding her business, Karin decided to do the opposite and take on new premises in Handbridge, opening Chester’s first “cupcake boutique”.

“I’d had it in mind that one day I’d have a shop of my own”, said Karin, “but the fire pushed it forward, and I just took a deep breath and did it.”

The Mummy’s Yummy’s cupcake boutique opened in April and now Karin is celebrating a year in business. “The boutique is the perfect size – we bake and decorate on the premises, so everything is fresh and smells delicious,” she said.

She credits her family for helping her get through the year. Her husband Andy, three children Jasmine, Bradley and Elliott, and sister Helen have all been on hand to help out. “And the people and businesses in Handbridge have been so welcoming and friendly” added Karin.

To mark the first birthday of her business, Karin is asking customers, and their children, to suggest their dream cupcake – either in words or pictures – and after selecting the winner, she’ll present their dream cupcake to them.

“I dream about cupcakes all the time” said Karin “and dreaming up new flavours and styles is great fun. We’ve just launched the Banoffee Cupcake and also a Strawberry Swirl – perfect for summer picnics!”

Dream cupcake suggestions can be emailed to Karin@mummys-yummys.co.uk. The closing date is July 14.