Occasion Cakes, Chocolates and Sweets

Finding the right cake for the occasion can be difficult to say the least. One of the biggest questions is where to go, now there is anything wrong with shop bought I'm sure they are practical and quick but where's the choice, the personality and importantly where's the love? 
Occasion cakes need love and attention, they also need to be flexible, some people just don't like raspberry jam and why should you compromise when it's your occasion.
If you're anything like me making them is out of the question, my cakes are only good as a cheap pudding when  I've run out of ice cream and as for decorating them.. well lets just forget that nightmare right now. There is no way I'm going to volunteer or be asked to make a special occasion cake for anyone!

So where do you go?
To help you decide here are some excellent small businesses that hand make and lovingly create the perfect cakes for your occasions.

The Daisy Cake Company

Based in Banstead, Surrey

Used with permission from The Daisy Cake Company

Wonderfully designed and made from scratch, you will find an amazing range of designs, sizes and flavours to cater for any occasion you have planned. You can also find a great selection of home made biscuits on offer. To see a gallery of their work visit their 

website or facebook page.

http://www.daisycakecompany.co.uk

http://www.facebook.com/daisycakecompany

Della's Sweet Treats

Based in Leicestershire

Used with permission from Della's Sweet Treats

On the 15th June you will be able to find amazing handmade chocolates perfect as a gift for yourselves or others. Made with love and a lot of attention, you won't be disappointed with their selection or quality. You can see a sneak preview of their chocolates on their website and facebook page.
http://www.dellassweettreats.co.uk/

http://www.facebook.com/DellasSweetTreats

Icandy Creations - Personalised Occasions & Weddings

Based in London

Used with permission from Icandy Creations

You can find personalised love heart sweets here, perfect for any special occasion these will make anyone receiving them smile. Also available in goodie bags for children. Make sure to visit their facebook page for more information and a gallery of their work.

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Icandy-Creations-Personalised-Occasions-Weddings/198999693444741?sk=info

Mama's Home Baking
Based in South Wales

Used with permission from Mama's Home Baking

Great home baked and decorated cakes for you occasion. These wonderful cakes are lovingly hand made and look will look great as a centre piece to your event. Whether you need a large cake or just a small cupcake you won't be disappointed. Visit their facebook page for more information and a gallery of their work.
http://www.facebook.com/home.php?sk=group_149123571787338&ap=1

CompliCakes
Based in Alderholt

Used with permission from Complicakes

Beautiful cakes for your special occasions. Whether you are after something simple or elaborate you will find something to your taste here. If you're looking for anniversary or children's birthday cakes you won't be disappointed with their range nor their designs. For a full gallery of works visit their facebook page.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/CompliCakes/222890651061844

Yummiyummy Cakes
Based in Nottingham

Used with permission from Yummiyummy Cakes

Whether you are looking for something large and beautifully decorated or something small and simple you will find something you like here. With an amazing range of cakes for all occasions you won't have trouble picking something out. For a information and a full gallery of works visit their facebook page.
http://www.facebook.com/YummiyummyCakes

Jades Cake Factory
Based in Lowestoft

Used with permission from Jades Cake Factory

With some fantastic designed handmade large cakes and cupcakes on offer for all occasions you are sure to find something that suits you and your event. Christening, Birthdays and more all catered for. For more information and a gallery of their works visit their website or facebook page.
http://www.jadescakefactory.co.uk/
http://www.facebook.com/JadesCakeFactory


Metal Munchiez
Based in Portsmouth

Used with permission from Metal Munchiez

Some great cakes available for any occasion. Birthday's, Christmas and more. If you are having a great event with a little bit of metal involved then these cakes are also for you. With a great range of dark, fun and musical based cakes you can be sure your event is catered for. For a full gallery of works visit their facebook page.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Metal-Munchiez/196534610361555


Ella's Cakes
Based in Stansted, Essex


An amazing range of gorgeous handmade and hand decorated cakes for all occasions. If you are looking for something sweet, cute and well made then these are for you. Beautiful designs that will look fantastic as a centrepiece to your event or occasion. For a full gallery of works visit their website or facebook page.
http://www.ellacakes.co.uk/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Ellas-Cakes/158162360892082

There you have it, a fantastic list of local UK cake makers. I hope you find that special cake for your occasion or event and if you know someone who would love this list please feel free to pass it along.

For more businesses like this visit our website and facebook page.

http://www.facebook.com/OurLocalCrafts

http://www.ourlocalcrafts.co.uk/

Updated Scottish Business Showcase

Looking for businesses local to you? Do you live in Scotland? Then this feature is for you. It includes businesses from Our Local Crafts Facebook shout out earlier this week and businesses from previous shout outs to give you a wide range of shops and services in your area.


Elibee Gifts 
Based in Scotland here you will find beautiful handmade gifts for all ages and occasions. They have a wonderful range of items and you will not be short of choices for the perfect gift. Pop over to their page and see what's on offer.
http://www.facebook.com/elibeegifts
http://www.elibeegifts.co.uk/


Perfect Presents
Here you will find gorgeous gifts for all ages. From Nappy cakes for babies to Towel Cakes for adults you're sure to find something for that special gift. Pop over to their page and see for yourselves what's on offer.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Perfect-Presents/172048176150717


Squinty Jewellery
Here you will find a wonderful collection of handmade jewellery. They have some gorgeous sets so pop over to their page and see what's for sale.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Squinty-Jewellery/312834668985


Soapy Essentials
Based in Scotland, they make and sell wonderful aromatherapy products for the body; soaps, bath bombs, shower gels and much much more. Perfect for pampering yourselves pop over and have a look at the wonderful items on offer and if you know someone who would like them too pass along their details.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Soapy-Essentials/132254746844860


Wax Teddies
Based in Scotland they have some wonderful hand dipped scented teddies and wax melts, great for replacing air fresheners around the home, they come in a beautiful variety of bears and other animals and would make great gifts. If you think someone would love these then please pass along their details.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Wax-Teddies/134832249919741
http://www.waxteddies.com/


Harts and Crafts
Based in Scotland, they make and sell beautiful home wares from cushions to jam jar candles, they have a wonderful range that is definitely not to be missed. Pop over to their page and see for yourselves their gorgeous range and if you know someone who would love their items please pass along their details.
http://www.facebook.com/Hartsandcrafts2011


Handmade by Jacqueline
Based in Scotland, they have stunning hand made cards available for all occasions at reasonable prices. Pop over to their page and I'm sure you will see something you love and is right for the occasion. If you know someone who would like one of these cards please pass along their details.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Handmade-by-Jacqueline/152423071444403


Accessobride
Based in Scotland, they specialise in bridal and wedding accessories. If you are looking for beautiful accessories then these have them and if you know someone who will be interested in them then please pass along their details.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Accessobride/102349166510934


I hoped you enjoyed visiting these wonderful businesses, if you are not from Wales and would like to see businesses in your area take a look at our other blog postings or visit our facebook page.
http://www.facebook.com/OurLocalCrafts

Special Shopping Feature

Hello and welcome to this weeks special shopping feature!
Our facebook page is filled with over 400 wonderful businesses and so to celebrate and advertise more fairly each week a new special feature will be ran, filled to the brim with wonderful items to buy. There is so much choice out there hopefully being in one place will help us decide what to buy!


Hopefully this will be run alongside our Review specials in which you can buy items from businesses we've reviewed.


So grab your brew, get comfy and get ready to see what's on offer this week.


Sutton Soap Handmade Natural and Organic Soap
Makers of beautiful handmade soap, your are sure to find a scent or shape that suits you. Currently they are offering soap from £1.50 including postage. Visit their website or facebook page and see what they have.
http://www.suttonsoap.co.uk/index.php
http://www.facebook.com/SuttonSoaps

Kirsty's Kross Stitch

Used with permission from Kirsty's Kross Stitch

Fantastic cross stitch cards including personalised charts. Has a wonderful new range of history and fantasy charts available prices from £3.50. Visit their website or facebook page and see what they have to offer.
http://www.kirstyskrossstitch.co.uk
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Kirstys-Kross-Stitch/166228760099092


Ivybet Gems

Used with permission from Ivybet Gems

Beautiful handmade jewellery for all ages. If you are looking for something for yourself, your child or as a gift for others then you won't be disappointed. Prices from £4.00. Visit their facebook page and see what's on offer.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Ivybet-Gems/113910341986680


Pearlies 4 Girlies
Wonderful pearl jewellery for children and adults, all brightly coloured and beautifully made. If you are looking for a great gift then visit their facebook or etsy page for a look at what they are offering.
http://www.etsy.com/shop/pearlies4girlies
http://www.facebook.com/pearlies4girlies


Roo Bear Craft Creations
Beautiful handmade wooden keepsakes and home decor. With a wide variety of items you are sure to find something you were looking for. Items are custom made and prices vary. Right now they have some wonderful gifts for Fathers Day. For more information visit their facebook page and see what's on offer.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Roo-Bear-Craft-Creations/178899252161098

Hand made with love - Especially for you
Have a wonderful range of handmade home decor, headbands, tutu's and personalised items. They have such a wide choice of great items you won't be disappointed with the choices available. Visit their website or facebook page for more information.
http://www.hmwithlove-especially4u.co.uk
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Hand-made-with-love-Especially-for-you/151486338243365


Totally Trinketz

Used with permission from Totally Trinketz

If you are looking for wonderful handmade trinkets or children's room decor then you'll find a great collection here. From personalised name coat hangers to wall plaques and cards. Prices vary. Visit their facebook page for more information.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Totally-Trinketz/137413196312663


Seedlingz Online Boutique
A gorgeous collection of baby and children clothing. Made from organic and baby soft materials. They have a beautiful collection. Make sure to visit their facebook page for more information and a gallery of their items.
http://www.facebook.com/Seedlingz


Nichola Foster Designs
Beautiful one of a kind handmade jewellery. With a selection like this you're sure to find something you love. Stunning rings, bracelets, necklaces and more all made using fantastic materials. Make sure to visit their facebook page and see for yourselves what's on offer!
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Nichola-Foster-Designs/190615480975141


FunkyClipz/Auctions and Selling page
If you are looking for personalised dummy clips, keyrings and gorgeous wine charms then take a look at these. With a variety of items available in gorgeous bright colours you'll find something you like. Prices from £1.50 Visit their facebook page for more information and a gallery of works.
http://www.facebook.com/FunkyClipz


Flossi's Gems
Gorgeous handmade jewellery available for all occasions, if you are looking for something special for yourselves or as a gift then take a look at what's on offer. Visit their facebook page for more information and a full gallery of items for sale.
http://www.facebook.com/FlossisGems


Gillyflower Designs
A wonderful collection of handmade jewellery and gifts. If you are looking for something to buy as a gift then take a look at what's on offer. Brightly coloured and fun these items will brighten up your day. Visit their facebook page for to see for yourselves what's on offer.
http://www.facebook.com/GillyflowerDesigns


Bows By Bryan-Handmade baby & toddler hairclips
Has a wonderful collection of handmade bows and clips for children. Made from bright colours and great fabrics you are sure to find something you like. Visit their website or facebook page to see what they have to offer today!
http://www.bowsbybryan.co.uk/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Bows-By-Bryan-Handmade-baby-toddler-hairclips/190191511021879


Smellies by Heidi 

Used with permission for Smellies by Heidi

If you are looking for great pampering items then take a look at these. With beautiful bath bombs and creams you are sure to find something you like the look of. Available in a wide range of colours, shapes and scents. Visit their website and facebook page for more information.
http://smelliesbyheidi.supersimpleshop.com/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/-Smellies-by-Heidi-/173304999364937


Small and Gifted
If you are looking for handmade personalised wooden products aimed at children and adults then have a look at these. With a wonderful collection of beautifully decorated and brightly coloured wooden items you will be spoilt for choice. Visit their website or facebook page and see what's on offer.
http://www.smallandgifted.co.uk/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Small-and-Gifted/136809849721759


There you have it, a great collection of local UK businesses. I hoped you enjoyed looking through their shops but if you want more please visit our website and facebook page for more great businesses.
http://www.ourlocalcrafts.co.uk/
http://www.facebook.com/OurLocalCrafts

Special Wedding Feature

Summer is fast approaching and that can only mean one thing.. wedding season! And why not; sunshine, outdoor pictures and parties and a better more natural tan! But what about the little things, you know favours, gifts for the bridesmaids, thank you cards and the myriad of other items, doesn't it make your head spin? I know it does mine. 


Where do you start?
There are a thousand and one websites, books, people all shouting at you to let them help and by the end of it all your still not sure of anything other than the growing need to take an aspirin!
Our Local Crafts has come up with a list of fantastic businesses to help with this problem all under one roof. These are all small businesses which means you get the attention you deserve with the quality you demand.


Jude's Jewels Handmade Designer Jewellery - Stirling, Scotland. Posts worldwide.
Offers a wonderful range of handmade bespoke jewellery. If you are looking for something different yet special then they are for you. Brooches, tiaras, hair pins, cufflinks and more, made to order for your tastes. They have a full gallery of their work on their website and facebook page.
http://www.judesjewels.co.uk/ourshop/cat_49815-WeddingBridal-Prom-and-Special-Occasion-Jewellery.html
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Judes-Jewels-Handmade-Designer-Jewellery/211021065361


JewelleryMadeWithLove - Posts within the UK
Offers a beautiful range of handmade to order cufflinks, bracelets, bookmarks and wine glass charms as wedding favours. They have a wonderful range available and if you are looking for something different to use as wedding favours then look no further. For a full gallery of their work see their facebook page. They also offer discounts for large orders.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/JewelleryMadeWithLove/188199801210633

Designer shoes not designer prices - Posts within the UK

Used with permission from DesignerShoesNotDesignerPrices

Has a wonderful range of mother of the bride/groom shoes and matching bags. If you are looking something special for your feet then these are for you. Stunning shoes with stunning matching accessories, what's not to love. You can find a full gallery of their items on their website and facebook page.
http://www.designershoesnotdesignerprices.co.uk/
http://www.facebook.com/designershoesnotdesignerprices

Sweet Bottoms - Delivery of sweet favours within the UK. Candy buffets to the Nottingham, Derby and Leicestershire Areas.
Can provide sweet wedding favours to suit your needs. Everyone likes sweets and they are the classic wedding favour. If you are looking for something different how about a sweet buffet? These can be provided in the Nottingham, Derby and Leicester area. Got a sweet tooth and want to stand out? Then these are for you. For a full gallery of their services you can find them on facebook.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Sweet-Bottoms/184913861538948

Relatively Pink - Delivery within the UK
They have a wonderful range of handmade bespoke wedding invites, stationary and thank you cards. They also make everlasting bouquets, beautiful flowers made from paper. If you want something special you can keep then these are for you. You can find a full gallery of work on their facebook page. They can work to your budget so that you can receive the items you want at the prices you want.
http://www.facebook.com/relativelypink1


Rosewood Flowers - Based in Cambridge

Used with permission from Rosewood Flowers

Beautiful handmade bouquets of wooden flowers. The flowers are all handcrafted to give you the attention to detail and quality needed. They are made to order so please order in advance. Bouquets, buttonholes, wall and table decorations available to order. Price is based on individual orders. To see their work a gallery is available on their facebook page.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Rosewood-Flowers/148788755187014

Smellies by Heidi - Posts within the UK

Used with permission from Smellies By Heidi

Gorgeous, scented and perfect for wedding favours. You will find a wide range of handmade bathbombs, creams and salts. Individually made so that you receive your items fresh and smelling perfect. If you are looking for something different to use as wedding favours then these are for you. Beautifully presented and made with care. You can find the full range of these on their website and facebook page.
http://smelliesbyheidi.supersimpleshop.com/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/-Smellies-by-Heidi-/173304999364937


Eleanor Jane Cards - Delivers within the UK

Used with permission from Eleanor Jane Cards

If you are looking for cards or invitations, then take a look at these. You will find a wide range of handmade cards, invitations and order of ceremonies leaflets. You can find the full range of these on their facebook page.
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100002285638725


These are but a few of the wonderful businesses out there and as you can see they are offering high quality items that will make any special day stand out just that little bit more. If there is something specific you are looking for just send me a message or comment and I can find it for you.
Please feel free to pass this blog along to people you think would be interested.


http://www.ourlocalcrafts.co.uk/

Occasion Cakes and Chocolates

Finding the right cake for the occasion can be difficult to say the least. One of the biggest questions is where to go, now there is anything wrong with shop bought I'm sure they are practical and quick but where's the choice, the personality and importantly where's the love? 
Occasion cakes need love and attention, they also need to be flexible, some people just don't like raspberry jam and why should you compromise when it's your occasion.
If you're anything like me making them is out of the question, my cakes are only good as a cheap pudding when  I've run out of ice cream and as for decorating them.. well lets just forget that nightmare right now. There is no way I'm going to volunteer or be asked to make a special occasion cake for anyone!


So where do you go?
To help you decide here are some excellent small businesses that hand make and lovingly create the perfect cakes for your occasions.


Sweet Moments (Cakes By Aly) - Wirral/ Liverpool/ Ellesmere Port and surrounding areas.

Used with permission from Sweet Moments (Cakes by Aly)

Beautiful cakes and chocolates all handmade by a pastry chef with over 20 years experience. Concentrating on celebration cakes and desserts you will find some amazing creations for all occasions with no two cakes ever being the same. Prices are based on individual orders.
You will find photographs of their work on their facebook page.
http://www.facebook.com/sweetmomentscake


Rachel's Cake Studio - Based in Dartford, Kent, and deliver to most of the South East - cakes can also be collected.

Used with permission from Rachel's Cake Studio

Fantastic cakes lovingly created for all occasions. Made with the finest ingredients and wherever possible organic too. Each cake is well designed and painstakingly decorated. Full gallery of previous work can be seen on their facebook page. Prices are based on individual orders.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Rachels-Cake-Studio/184125234943727

Delicious Catering and Cupcakes - Leicestershire Area, Cake pops and cupcake truffles can be delivered throughout England, Wales and Scotland.

Used with permission from Delicious Catering and Cupcakes - Leicester.

Beautiful cakes stunningly decorated for all occasions. They use fresh, local, free range and organic ingredients to make your cakes even more special. Beautifully presented you're sure to find the cake you want. A gallery of their work can be seen on both their website and facebook. Prices for larger cakes are based on individual orders.
http://www.deliciouscatering.moonfruit.com
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Delicious-Catering-and-Cupcakes-Leicester/151173138260416


The Ginger Baker Scotland - Glasgow, collection in person also available.

Used with permission from The Ginger Baker Scotland

Fantastic bespoke cakes for all occasions. With many different flavours and decorations to the highest quality you will find cakes full of flavour, with lots of sprinkles and glitter. You can find a gallery of their work on their facebook page. Prices are based on individual orders.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Ginger-Baker-Scotland/180973581946659


Tracy's Cupcake Creations - Based in Norwich, Norfolk

Used with permission from Tracy's Cupcake Creations

Beautiful cakes for all occasions. From classic to modern designs, sizes and shapes you are sure to find the perfect cake. Stunningly made and well presented these cakes will make your day even more memorable. For a full gallery of their work visit their facebook page. Prices for fruit and sponge cakes are from £20 and cupcakes are from £1 each.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Tracys-Cupcake-Creations/167888356603480


There you have it, some wonderful cakes from around the UK. Bespoke handmade cakes can make an occasion and with this collection the only problem you will have now is choice!
If there isn't a listing for handmade cakes in your area send me a comment and I will chase some up for you, I hope you find this blog useful, please feel free to pass this along so that others can see the great cake makers featured!