TODAY, cake decorating has reached an exalted position in celebrations and at The Cake Forge in Salisbury creative visions are spun from sugar by cake artist Dan Mills who gives life to layered masterpieces time after time. Dan and Kate Mills are the masterminds

behind The Cake Forge in the Maltings, where they have been immersed in a world of carving tools and paintbrushes, fondant and modelling since Dan ventured into the world of cake art 12 years ago after his first wedding cake became the talking point for years to follow. And from that point forward, Dan became the “go to” cake creator ahead of every celebration held by his family and friends.

With artistic flair, eye for detail and sculptural skill, Dan creates the most ambitious cakes, from 3D models to ten tier masterpieces and everything in between, Dan's cakes ooze the wow factor as they take centre stage. Brides and Grooms know after their initial, free consultation with Dan and Kate, their cake will be a showstopper, as Dan’s portfolio can attest.

“I went to art college as a teenager as I was always sketching and drawing," said Dan, "It was sculpture I loved the most, having always been fascinated with models. As I started to create cakes I began experimenting more and more with my sculpture and soon was able to

incorporate these skills with my craft. Now I make all sorts of cakes, which have included a replica of Longleat, a stunning beach hut and

countless bands and favourite TV characters," said Dan.

Kate said: “It is such a privilege to be asked to create something spectacular for someone’s celebration,” said Kate. “And with every cake

we are commissioned to create, we create the best we can. Every commission is treated equally, whether it is for a wedding or a birthday, an anniversary or a christening and we are proud to be asked to make it.

"The wedding cake is one of our most exciting commissions, as the subject is emotional and full of love and Dan loves being commissioned for wedding cakes. He becomes exceptionally inspired, particularly when couples are looking for something a little bit different. I would urge couples getting married to call in and have a free consultation with us as soon as possible so we can set to work on creating something astounding."

The Cake Forge is now based at The Maltings and the couple are taking their designs to a new level of awesome. Be it a simple design to a fantastical epic fantasy, Dan will not shy away from a challenge and loves it when he is asked to create something quirky and bespoke where he is able to draw on his artistic skills to create something inspired and truly amazing.

Kate said: “Our shop houses a studio where you are invited to come see our amazing creations, or simply pop in and see Dan at work as he toils on his next piece. We only use the the highest quality ingredients and our aim is to give individual attention to each inquiry to ensure

we give the best service possible.

“We are fortunate enough to be able to do most things cake wise from the very basic, to epic imaginative pieces. You name it, we will

make it. We make edible icing printing, either with your own design in mind or we can create something for you. This is an excellent

way to create those more complex or time consuming designs.”

The beauty of The Cake Forge is clients do not have to spend hours agonising over their choices for a cake. Dan and Kate will hold a consultation with clients where ideas are thrashed out and inspiration found. And whether the customer wants something flamboyant and fun or cakes featuring swatches of watercolour pastels or an elegant and tiered, Dan will create something truly tailored and bespoke.

A: The Cake Forge, 2-3 The Maltings, Salisbury SP1 1BD

W: thecakeforge.co.uk

T: 01722 23924