I'm Brianna and I'm a senior in high school. As a senior, I'm required to complete a project in order to graduate. The topic I've chosen for my project is cake decorating, and I'm required to come up with a research paper, portfolio, product, and a presentation in front of a panel of judges. I'll also need a mentor to teach me a skill (that skill would be cake decorating). I am required to spend 10-15 hours with my mentor in person before November 18. And I MUST have a mentor by next week (If possible by Sept 16). I'm posting this because so far I've called bakeries in my area and I'm just not having any luck with finding a mentor. I was introduced to this site by my mom, (who also decorates cakes, but, unfortunately, family members are not allowed to serve as mentors) who said I could post and see if there was anyone in the area who may be able or willing to help me out. So is there anyone in the Triad area of North Carolina, preferably Randolph County, who might be able to serve as my mentor? Also- I'll need someone who is relatively experienced with fondant, because I plan to use fondant accents when I make my own cake (which will be my product). Anyone who is able to help or has suggestions is greatly appreciated.

Guilford County and some areas of Davidson County (Thomasville, possibly Lexington) are also easily accessible. Thanks again.

Just a thought, would a Wilton class qualify you??

No, I'm afraid that won't work. My mentor needs to be someone that I can spend one on one time with, and even if that would work, money is an issue right now and I was trying to keep my budget as low as possible since my parents are responsible for all the expenses that are coming with this project. Thank you for the suggestion though.

Check with Crawford's Creations in High Point. She is a great lady and I learned so much from her in several classes. She might be willing to work with you on the costs. I think her website is crawfordscreations.com
Leslie

I wish I was closer and I'd definately help you out.

I did this back in the spring for a local HS senior doing her senior project on cake decorating. It was so much fun.

You don't even have to find a bakery, it can be just a legal home-baker like me.

If any of you CCers are in any shape to help her out, it would be a great thing to do. I know we all are busy, but it isn't too hard to find spare time to let her learn while you work on someone's cake order.

To OP, best of luck on your project.

This is Brianna's mom. I just wanted to say thank you to those of you that have offered up suggestions. They are greatly appreciated. jammjenks, thank you, I wish you were closer too.

The first place she checked was Crawford's Creations (since I buy some of my supplies from there), but due to unfortunate circumstances she is unable to help. She has contacted all the local bakeries we could find listings for and has been unable to find anyone who could help her. I know we have lots of home bakers on this site so that's why I sent her here, hoping that someone could possibly be of help.

Thank you jammjenks.

Sorry that I dont live closer to U Brianna, but I'm in SC about an hour south of Charlotte. Why dont U find a Wilton class in your area and explain the situation to the instructor of the class, maybe she would be willing to work with U one on one or let U even sit in on a couple of classes (the fondant & gumpaste would be good) for free. Its worth a shot. Good luck!

Hi Brianna, I'm not sure if I would be anywhere near qualified to help you. I bake for family and friends and do not have a licensed kitchen but if I can help I would be happy to do it. I do like working with fondant I'm located in Davidson County, Churchland to be exact. Take a look at my pics and let me know if I can help!!
Dot

Thank you so much Dot for being willing to help me out. I did find someone to serve as my mentor yesterday, I just haven't had the chance to post anything until now. Thank you again, though, for being willing, because I was almost sure I wasn't gonna find anyone that could help me. When I did finally find someone, I actually....cried tears of joy (seriously). So just know that your generosity makes me very happy! ^__^

Thanks,

-Brianna

Brianna,
I'm so glad you were able to find someone to help you. I'm in the Triangle area of the state or I would have volunteered my services.

Good luck and have fun!
Leslie

Thanks everybody! I think this will be an exciting experience!

Hey Brianna-
I was just thinking about you this week. How is your project going? Have any pictures you'd care to share?