Distinctive Cakes

By Toronto4Kids

Two years ago, Michelle Benaine began a soul searching journey, trying to discover her “passion” in life. To her, that meant doing something that you love to do… even if you weren’t getting paid. At 37 and while supporting 2 daughters all on her own, she enrolled at George Brown Community College to pursue a diploma in Baking and Pastry Arts Management. Then, she dared to follow her dreams and launched Distinctive Cakes – Uniquely designed cakes, pastries, and cookies.

With an absolute passion for baking, Michelle decided to go after what she loved most. She hopes to serve as a role model for her two girls and show them the importance of that one shouldn't be afraid to try. “I believe that in order to be the best Pastry chef, I have to constantly improve on both my skills and knowledge, so I took a chance on ME. You need to believe in yourself and your talents. When I saw the end result, I finally realized I was truly good at something!”

Michelle’s other inspiration is her older daughter who has a learning disability. “It's really hard to see my 13 year old struggle to read a grade 2 book. She's always been amazing in the kitchen, and this is my added motivation to have a business that she can be a part of.”

At Distinctive Cakes, the goal is to not have the cake be an “after thought”. Life is to be lived to its fullest. Each event commemorates the achievements or celebration of someone who is truly unique, and that should be captured in all aspects -- including the cake!

Each piece made by Michelle is “her baby”. When she designs her cakes, each will reflect "your individuality and your distinctive style". Among her notable creations is a Dior Bag, a cake ordered by a husband for his wife's birthday. She had always wanted a Dior purse so he emailed Michelle pictures of it, and she was able to recreate it as a cake. The biker jacket is another favourite. A wife sent her pictures of her husband's favourite possessions and Michelle went with the Jacket. Michelle also loves her Barbie doll creation. “That was nice... it was a little girl who wanted a "pink" cake with pink insides. Her mom thought of me for that something special. It gave me the chance to play dress up”!

While her company may still be new, Michelle has been concocting ideas and dreams for many years. She hopes to eventually design and market her own line of baking tins, cake boxes and bags, and ... ultimately launch Shelbe's - her own café. And just how will she reach these aspirations? Simply put she says: “Never give up on your dreams and never under-estimate the importance of your thoughts! Always surround yourself with positive thinking people.” Judging from her wonderful cakes, and her enormous talent and energy, we know she’ll get there!

For more information on Distinctive Cakes, you can visit their website at www.distinctivecakes.ca.