Hi all.
I'm kind of new here and have a question I'd like to throw out to all of you (since you are all so helpful!).

I'm new at decorating cakes and would really like to take a couple of classes to help me with technique. I have the basics down but I feel I need a professional to show me how to properly ice a cake, pipe borders, make flowers, etc. My cakes come out nice enough, but I see so many cakes on here that are very professional looking and want to get to that level. I feel my talent has taken me as far as I can go and now I need a few classes.

My question: Can anyone recommend classes in the northern NJ/NYC area? I've looked at the Institute of Culinary Education (in NYC) schedule and they have a basic cake decorating class starting in February for around $500 (5 classes). I can afford that, but would like to find something a bit cheaper. The New School (also NYC) has a class starting in February for $250 (3 classes) but I've never heard anything about their culinary classes.

I've heard mixed things about Wilton classes. Are they any good? I would also like to know if there is anyone in my area (Hoboken, NJ--I am willing to travel within a 25 mile radius) that is at a professional level who might offer private instruction.

Sorry for such a long post...and thanks in advance to anyone who answers!

There is an AC Moore in Secaucus, New Jersey that offers Wilton Classes
They are priced $12.50 to $25.00 for a 4 week class (1 day a week )

A. C. Moore
Secaucus
400 Mill Creek Drive
Secaucus, NJ 07094
201-902-0377

http://acmoore.com/classescalendar.asp?Store_ID=109

Hope this helps

Bob

I think the wilton classes are great, you can't beat the price that's for sure! There are 3 courses in all for the wiltons, each course is 4wks 1 night a week. You learn more advanced techniques in each course, and different flowers in each. I don't know about everyone else's instructors, but ours was a professional, she's had her own cake decorating business for 20yrs or more.There are more advanced classes out there, but the wiltons would give you a good jump on all the basic techniques, plus a little more. You could always take something more advanced later on if you feel theres more you want to learn.

I would definately start with the Wilton classes! Then, if you want to advance further, take the more expensive classes.

I was at that same place. I started off with Wilton classes and supplemented those classes with classes here and there from Colette Peters, Toba Garret and Scott Woolley. My opinion is that Wilton is the best way to go for the beginner. It's less expensive and gives you a variety of skills. After Wilton you may have a better idea of your niche, how far you want to take cake decorating, and your style. Then take classes with the Masters as you pocketbook permits. Happy cake decorating!!

Thanks everyone. I guess Wilton is the way to go. I have one more question, and it may sound silly. But I'm a guy and I'm assuming that most of these classes will be filled with women (and I really don't mind!), but have any of you had guys in your class? Just wondering.

No guys in my classes. But, just look at all the guys on Food Network! I would LOVE to work with one of those pastry chefs!!! My husband has even decorated a cake for my son"s Birthday. My wrist was recovering from carpal tunnel surgery. He did a GREAT job! I really think decorating is for anyone! Have fun with it!

Guy here...

yes I was the token male in course I (4 women) and the rose clinic (too busy trying to "get it" about roses to count women)

for course II it was 2 of the ladies from course 1 and me

for course III, it was down to one lady and me, both of us wanting to start our own business eventually.

don't worry -- it's far less worse than being the only guy in a Weight Watchers meeting!!!!!!! (this I know from experience!)

you'll be so busy just trying to do the techniques of the week that it won't be a problem at all. It quickly becomes a mutual encouragement society.

most of the chit-chat in my classes ranged from the barely printable when some technique failed (curses -- foiled again) to the usual: the kids are brats, I'm going to kill/strangle/mangle so and so at work, I'm SO SICK of buttercream!!!, etc.

relax, enjoy, and find someone to eat all those cakes!

I wouldn't worry a bit about being the only guy in the Wilton classes. I took the classes a couple of years ago in order to make a birthday cake for my daughter, and I was the only guy. It didn't bother me at all. I went on to do all three of the courses. They are a GREAT way to learn how to decorate cakes, plus they are VERY affordable. I actually liked it so much that I became a Wilton instructor part-time at Hobby Lobby. If you decide that you do like it, then you can take some of the specialty classes which cost a little more than the Wilton course classes. I've actually taken a couple of classes at the Wilton school in Darien, IL. Most recently was the advanced gumpaste class from Colette Peters which was just wonderful. She is a genuine person as well as a cake artist. I would highly recommend it if you have the opportunity. I would also recommend attending the ICES convention. It's a great way to learn tons of stuff and spend some money in the vendor room buying a bunch of cake stuff. Ha! Ha! I wish you the best of luck with cake decorating. Enjoy!

www.dickersoncakes.itgo.com

Well last I checked, I was a guy and I didn't feel out of place at the classes.
I don't think it matters if you are a guy or gal, it depends on the person. We started out with 8 people in the class and by the end there were 4, me included. If I can finish a class with all women, you can too.

I forgot one thing. I've been teaching the Wilton courses for over a year now, and I have had quite a few guys in my classes. My first class I taught had a husband and wife team. He was a motorcyle rider who decorated cakes. So I wouldn't worry too much about being the only guy.

We had three men in our class. The one that I sat near got the class as a gift certificate from his wife, he really enjoyed it.

ML

I liked the Wilton classes (I,II,III). They are a great start to decorating.

I teach cake decorating at the local Community College. I follow some of the Wilton ideas for their course but because we are not supported by Wilton we can teach other things not listed in the Wilton courses. I took the Wilton instructor course several years ago and like the Wilton products. They really focus on selling their products which is why they are less expensive. I teach six classes for a course instead of the 4-5 Wilton recommends. Yes, there has been at least one guy in almost every class and they really seem to enjoy it! Wilton classes are a great way to start and they can be found almost anywhere. I thing the teacher makes a lot of difference though.

I agree that the instrustor makes a difference. Our instructor for class one was more interested in promoting her cake business, which wasn't associated with the store where we took the class, than teaching us everything she could/should have taught us. This could be one reason why so many dropped out of the class, though I doubt it was the only one.

The community college where I teach doesn't allow us to promote stores or businesses or even mention the names. I guess that would be a good reason why. Good point Cakeman66. Although it's hard when students want to know where to get items, etc.

In my current class I have a guy and a husband and wife. It works great and no one minds whether youre a guy or a gal. Go for it and you'll have a lot of fun! I agree you have just as much right as gals do.

I am in the Wilton class 3 currently (I am the only student!). I have had no guys in either my course 1 or 2. I think it would be fun to have a guy in the class though! I say go for it! I have really enjoyed my classes, and you really can't beat the price! Practicaly free, there is always some deal going on.